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An incredible expedition across the White Continent during the very special 100-year anniversary season. Want more than a last two degree South Pole expedition? Looking for a serious expedition that will challenge even the most competent and experienced adventurers? This is it. More... |
| 2011 Expedition Dates |
2011 Dates: November 12, 2010 - January 12, 2012 (Mandatory pre-expedition preparations begin on November 8 in Punta Arenas)
| 2011 Expedition Price |
2011 Price: $65,000 (from Hercules Inlet) OR $55,000 (from Messner Start) Download Application
Daily Itinerary
| Pre-expedition: | Meet in Punta Arenas, Chile. Individual gear check. Official welcome reception and dinner in evening. |
| Pre-expedition: | Expedition prep work. |
| Pre-expedition: | Expedition prep work. |
Day 1: |
Depart for Antarctica (weather permitting). The 4.5 hour flight will take us across the Drake Passage, past the coast of Antarctica and to the Union Glacier basecamp base camp. |
Day 2-3: |
We'll spend two days at or near the Union Glacier basecamp base camp practicing our routine and ensuring that "all systems are go" before we depart for Hercules Inlet. This will likely include an overnight shakedown with our loaded sleds as well as time to acclimatize to the spectacular environment. |
| Day 5-60: |
A short flight by ski-equipped Twin Otter takes us to the Hercules Inlet, our starting point for this expedition. The first few days will see us climbing from approximately sea level to 800 meters. From Hercules Inlet, the Geographic South Pole lies over a thousand kilometers away (730 miles). The terrain will vary from wind blasted snow, to blue ice (very slick), to softer snow. We may also encounter sastrugi (wind patterns in the snow) which can range in size from a few centimeters to over a meter. As we make our way south, we'll pass beautiful nunataks (tips of mountains poking up through the snow) and see mountains both near and far. The temperatures may range significantly, but we can expect anything from -15c to -40 c. The wind will often be in our face as it pours off the Antarctic plateau towards the ocean. It will be one of the many challenges that we face on a daily basis. Additionally, we'll continue a gradual ascent from 800 meters to approximately 3,330 meters near the South Pole. This altitude gain is oftentimes not even noticeable, especially within the last few degrees of the South Pole. |
| Day 59-60: |
The polar plateau rolls gently near the South Pole. As we ski to within 15 or 20 kilometers we may begin to see small specks on the horizon that morph as we approach into the buildings, supply huts, and other structures that make up the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Research Station. Upon arrival we'll get a tour of the station (time permitting) and meet some of the fascinating people that call this unique place home. We'll coordinate our return flight to Union Glacier basecamp, where we'll await our departure for Punta Arenas and points North. |
| Day 60+: | Extra time built into the itinerary for weather delays, rest days, etc. |
This itinerary is highly dependent on a number of factors and is subject to change. Contact us for a more detailed itinerary!
| Qualifications This is a extremely challenging expedition designed for people looking for, and prepared for, the ultimate adventure. A resume of your previous expedition experience is required and approval of the guide is required for your participation. Full medical evacuation insurance is required. Please contact us for more details. |
