列国鉴｜记者手记：去南极，梦想之旅但需防范风险

Core Insights - The tourism industry in Antarctica is rapidly growing, with over 120,000 visitors expected in the 2023-2024 season, marking a significant increase from 8,000 visitors in the mid-1990s [4][5] - The average cost for a trip to Antarctica ranges from $10,000 to $50,000 per person, with some exclusive tours costing up to $100,000 or more [4][5] - The majority of tourists come from the United States, followed by Australia and China, with Chinese tourists becoming a significant market [5] Group 1: Tourism Growth - Antarctica is transitioning from a destination for adventurers to a more mainstream travel option, attracting over 100,000 tourists annually [1] - The peak tourist season runs from November to March, with December being particularly busy due to holiday travel [2] - The number of tourists visiting Antarctica is projected to exceed 122,000 in the upcoming season, with two-thirds of them setting foot on the continent [4] Group 2: Travel Costs and Logistics - Travel costs vary significantly based on departure points, travel duration, and cabin class, with average expenses ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 [4] - Group tours remain the primary choice for travelers, while self-guided options may reduce costs but come with challenges such as visa requirements and language barriers [5] - Travel routes include direct cruises from Ushuaia, Argentina, or flights from Punta Arenas, Chile, with the latter being more expensive but faster [9] Group 3: Environmental Impact and Regulations - Tourists must adhere to strict regulations to minimize their impact on the fragile Antarctic ecosystem, including limits on the number of passengers and mandatory inspections of gear [10][11] - The increase in tourism poses ecological threats, including the introduction of invasive species and higher carbon emissions, with each visitor contributing approximately 5.44 tons of CO2 [12] - Research indicates that black carbon levels near popular tourist sites are significantly higher than in other areas, contributing to accelerated ice melt [12]