The South Shetland Islands are volcanic, primarily mountainous and approximately 80 percent glaciated. A voyage to the South Shetland Islands will often provide visitors with the opportunity to see penguins and seals. Deception Island is always a highlight, and it is uninhabited aside from Spanish and Argentinean research bases. The glaciers and steep peak on the eastern side of the island provide a challenging environment for hiking. Kayaking is also an exciting way to explore Port Foster - the flooded caldera of Deception island.