Highlights
• Fly by private aircraft over tabular icebergs and ice shelves into the heart of Antarctica
• Fly across the polar plateau en route to the South Pole
• Explore Patriot Hills in the foothills of the Ellsworth Mountains
• Become one of the few to stand at the southernmost point on earth — the Geographical South Pole
Fact File
• 7 land days
• Maximum 10 travelers
• Start and finish in Punta Arenas, Chile
• All meals included
• Includes return flights to Patriot Hills Camp and the South Pole
• Activity Level:
2
One of the greatest stories in Antarctic Exploration is that of the race to the Geographic South Pole. The names of explorers like Scott, Amundsen and Shackleton still fascinate and inspire us as we learn of their heroic journeys in search of the Pole.
Be among the privileged few to fly from Punta Arenas, Chile to Patriot Hills Camp, the only private camp in Antarctica. Learn rope-handling skills, join the meteorologist for weather observations and track expeditions as they make their way south. Unusual snow-sculpted formations, ice pools and dramatic peaks, all bathed in the surreal golden light of the midnight sun, are a photographer's dream. Explore on foot, cross-country skis or by snow-machines.
Take a scenic flight to the Geographical South Pole and visit the United States Research Station. Here, at the southernmost point on earth, all 360° of longitude meet and beneath your feet the ice is almost 10,000 ft / 3000 m thick.
This unique land adventure to the South Pole is truly a once-in-a lifetime experience that many have dreamt about, but only a handful have ever experienced.
Pre Day 1
Arrival in Punta Arenas
Arrive in Punta Arenas, Chile 2 days prior to your scheduled departure date for Antarctica and make your own way to your hotel to settle in. Contact the local staff office to arrange a convenient time for them to meet you and give you information on Punta Arenas and surroundings.
Flight Preparations
The following day is busy with flight preparations. In the morning, you are invited to join us for an Antarctic presentation followed by refreshments. The presentation will include information on your flight south, the current weather situation and what to expect on your arrival in Antarctica. This will be the trip of a lifetime and we want to ensure that you are well prepared to enjoy it to the fullest. There will be time to ask any questions you may have and get to know your fellow travellers.
After the presentation we will agree a time to check your Antarctic clothing to ensure nothing has been inadvertently forgotten, issue you with any rental clothing you have requested, and then collect your checked baggage for loading on to the aircraft ready for departure the following day. Please ensure that your baggage complies with international air transport regulations. No hazardous goods such as fuels may be packed in your checked bags.
You are going to the interior of Antarctica, one of the most difficult places in the world to fly to. Every effort will be made to keep to the scheduled departure date, but please note that all flights are dependent on weather, aircraft serviceability, and local conditions. Days of delay are part of the Antarctic travel experience and should be expected. Our Punta Arenas staff will keep you informed of any schedule changes.
Please also note that in exceptional circumstances, if logistics permit and weather is exceptional, we may depart the evening PRIOR to our scheduled departure date.
No two Antarctic adventures are exactly the same. This is part of the magic and excitement of Antarctic travel. The detailed itinerary is intended to outline general program objectives and highlight typical activities and experiences. Exact timeline, activities, and program details will vary from trip to trip.
