My Journey to See All 19 Penguin Species in the Wild, From Antarctica to Tristan da Cunha to New Zealand's Subantarctic Islands
The author shares their journey to see all 19 penguin species in the wild, highlighting encounters on Macquarie Island and other remote locations. This five-year adventure has taken them from Antarctica to New Zealand's Subantarctic Islands. The experience has transformed their interest in birding, particularly in penguins, which they find captivating.
- ▪The author has seen 15 out of 19 penguin species in their quest to observe them in the wild.
- ▪Their journey began with an unexpected encounter with African penguins in South Africa.
- ▪The author was inspired to pursue birding after spotting albatrosses while crossing the Drake Passage.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
CruiseMy Journey to See All 19 Penguin Species in the Wild, From Antarctica to Tristan da Cunha to New Zealand's Subantarctic IslandsAnd the adventure's not over yet…By Stefanie WaldekMay 29, 2026A.Russ/Heritage AdventurerSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this storyIt was an uncannily calm day on Macquarie Island, a sliver of oceanic crust located about halfway between New Zealand and Antarctica. Typically, it's pummeled by icy winds and drenching rains. But today, I'm sitting on the black-sand beach under partly cloudy skies, legs outstretched as gentle waves roll ashore. A group of curious royal penguins waddles by, pausing to inspect my muck boots and give me a quick once-over.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Condé Nast Traveler.
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