Arctic & Antarctic Tourism Boom: How to Travel Responsibly & Protect Fragile Ecosystems

Wednesday, March 19, 2025

Tourism in the Arctic and Antarctic is reaching unprecedented levels, raising concerns about its impact on fragile ecosystems. While these remote destinations offer breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife encounters, the growing number of visitors poses serious environmental risks.

According to the Arctic Council, the number of ships entering the Arctic Polar Code area increased by 37% from 2013 to 2024.

Greenland alone saw a 46% increase in tourism between 2018 and 2023, with over 131,000 visitors in 2023, largely due to expanding cruise routes.

The Government of Greenland projects continued growth as Nuuk’s airport expands in 2024, followed by two more international airports by 2026.

On the opposite end of the globe, Antarctica is seeing a similar trend. The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) reported that 124,262 people visited Antarctica in 2023, up from 104,897 the previous year.

More than 80,000 tourists set foot on the continent, raising concerns among conservationists.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) warns that increasing human activity can disrupt local wildlife, alter animal behavior, and introduce invasive species.

How to Travel Responsibly to the Polar Regions

As organizations like the Arctic Council, IAATO, and the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO) stress the need for sustainable travel, here’s how visitors can minimize their environmental footprint:

1. Choose Transport Wisely

Cruise ships may seem like a sustainable option, but their carbon emissions and noise pollution threaten marine life. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) highlights that global shipping accounts for 3% of CO2 emissions, with cruise ships contributing significantly. Noise pollution disrupts whale echolocation, as shown in research from the UK’s Durham University.

Alternatives include:

• Taking a train: The European Environment Agency states that trains reduce CO2 emissions by 90-95% compared to flights. Trains to Arctic regions include routes from Stockholm to Narvik or Helsinki to Rovaniemi.
• Flying & staying local: The Government of Norway suggests that flying directly to Arctic towns and using local accommodations benefits communities more than cruises, which often bypass local economies.
• Sailing: Private sailing expeditions, though costly, have a lower impact than large cruise ships.

2. Respect Wildlife & Local Ecosystems

The IUCN warns that human presence can stress wildlife. Tourists should:

• Maintain a safe distance from animals.
• Avoid chasing wildlife for selfies.
• Observe migration patterns for ethical encounters.

3. Support Local Communities

Instead of relying on imported goods, visitors should choose local products. According to the Government of Greenland, seal meat has a lower carbon footprint than imported meat. Inuit communities legally hunt under strict quotas, making it an eco-friendly food choice.

4. Travel with the Right Gear

The National Snow and Ice Data Center (NSIDC) recommends travelers:

• Rent gear locally to reduce luggage weight and support the economy.
• Use high SPF sunscreen due to strong UV exposure in icy environments.
• Pack nasal spray to combat dry air.

5. Plan for Seasonal Highlights

Timing travel with natural phenomena reduces unnecessary impact. For example, according to the Canadian Tourism Commission, the best time to see icebergs in Newfoundland is May to June, aligning with natural patterns.

Final Thoughts

As polar tourism continues to grow, travelers must take responsibility for preserving these pristine environments.

Following sustainable travel guidelines, choosing ethical transport, and respecting local ecosystems can help protect these fragile regions for future generations.

• From Punta Arenas to the South Pole- Exploring Fragile Ecosystem of Antarctica and its Tourism Potential : Here’s What You Need to Know!

• How to Plan Your Antarctica Adventure: Expert Tips for Visiting Snow Hill Island and the Weddell Sea’s Majestic Icebergs

• Antarctica’s Popularity Soars in Luxury Travel, Sparking Environmental Warnings Over Climate Impact: Here’s What You Need to Know!

• Sustainable Tourism Takes Flight As HIF Global And Antarctica21 Team Up To Advance E-Fuels In Antarctic Travel