Some tourist agencies in China are contemplating offering domestic tourists a new destination: Antarctica. But the State Oceanic Administration, together with the National Tourism Administration and the Foreign Ministry, say the current situation for organizing travel there is not mature and that travel should be organized conditionally.

Given the country's rapid economic growth, some domestic travel agencies and expedition organizations wish to attract more consumers by organizing tour groups to Antarctica without approval from related departments.

People who are interested in the itinerary would be charged around 100,000 yuan, or US$12,500, per person.

The tour to Antarctica would be regarded as an extended journey after tourists finish a trip to South America. Local travel agencies would help them continue their trip on to Antarctica.

The Antarctic landscape has attracted more tourists to explore its magnificent and unique scenery. Statistics show that every year, more than 10,000 people set foot on Antarctica. The number of tourists grows every year.

But Chinese tourism officials remind people to be cautious before signing up to go to Antarctica because their safety and interests cannot be guaranteed.

Officials add China is a country that has signed the Antarctic Treaty, which establishes an international legal framework for the management of the area. The country's citizens should comply with the treaty's obligations to protect the region's natural environment and ban activities that could possibly be destructive to the region, including travel.

Trips to South America and Antarctica are becoming popular among Chinese travelers in recent years, urging relevant departments to hasten their steps in tour management work.

At present, the legislation of managing Chinese activities in Antarctica is underway. Specific regulations will be stipulated targeting Chinese tours to Antarctica.

The officials stress that before China approves Antarctica as a legal travel destination, domestic organizations should not take tourists there.