Ceremonial South Pole with Antarctic Treaty nation flags
Emperors & Explorers / © Christopher Michel
Overview
Experience two Antarctic icons in one action-packed adventure. Fly by ski aircraft to the Gould Bay Emperor Penguin Colony on the remote coast of the Weddell Sea. Camp on the same sea ice where thousands of birds come to raise and feed their young. Photograph majestic emperors and their chicks against a spectacular backdrop of ice cliffs,pressure ridges, and icebergs. Fall asleep to a chorus of trumpeting calls and wake to find curious penguins outside your tent.
Fly on to the Geographic South Pole, the most remote destination on Earth. In several hours you’ll cover the distance that took early explorers months of hardship to achieve. History comes alive as you stand at 90° South, the ultimate goal of Amundsen and Scott, who crossed this frozen continent more than 100 years ago. Feel the spirit of determination and discovery that has inspired a century of Antarctic exploration and scientific research.
Weather
The interior of Antarctica has a cold, dry, windy climate. Average mid-season temperatures at our base camp range from -12°F to 30°F (-24°C to -1°C ). On a sunny windless day it can feel quite warm but, when the wind blows, you will be glad of warm layers and a wind jacket. Temperatures can drop as low as -22°F (-30°C) in early November.
At the South Pole temperatures rarely climb above -13°F (-25°C) with light winds and windchill of -40°F (-40°C).
Weather at the emperor colony is highly variable and influenced by coastal systems. Temperatures range from -25°F (-32°C) to near 32°F (0°C) with sunny and overcast skies and the possibility of heavy snowstorms.
Activity Level
Moderate
Moderate trips offer adventure with a bit more challenge. They may include walking up to several miles/kilometres on uneven snow and ice; staying in remote field camps; extreme temperatures (–40°F / –40°C); activity at high altitudes (11,000ft / 3350m); or skydiving from 13,000 ft AGL (15,300 ft AMSL) .
Inclusions
What's Included
- Airport transfers in Punta Arenas, Chile
- Round trip flight to Antarctica from Punta Arenas
- Round trip flight to Gould Bay Emperor Penguin colony from Union Glacier, Antarctica
- Round trip flight to South Pole from Union Glacier, Antarctica
- Meals and tented accommodation in Antarctica
- Antarctic guides
- Celebration event and Certificate of Achievement
- Checked luggage up to 66 lb (30 kg)
What's Not Included
- Insurance coverage—personal, medical,evacuation, or otherwise
- Commercial flights to and from Punta Arenas
- Airport transfers outside of Punta Arenas
- Meals and accommodation in Punta Arenas
- Additional flights within Antarctica
- Personal equipment and clothing
- Expenses incurred due to delays
- Luggage over 66 lb (30 kg)
- Satellite phone charges
9 Days
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Arrival Day: Punta Arenas, Chile
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Pre-departure Days: Gear Check, Welcome and Safety Briefing
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Day 1: Fly to Antarctica
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Day 2: Explore Union Glacier
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Flexible Flight Day: Fly to Emperor Colony
Weather, sea ice, and flight conditions can be very challenging for this trip and days of delay are common. Enjoy local excursions, activities and Antarctic lectures at Union Glacier Camp while waiting for suitable conditions for your flight.
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Flexible Day: Live with the Emperors
Amount of time spent at Emperor Penguin colony may vary, due to weather, sea ice, and flight conditions.
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Flexible Flight Day: Return to Union Glacier
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Flexible Flight Day: Fly to the South Pole
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Day 6-8: Explore Union Glacier
These days provide an additional weather buffer in case of delays.
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Day 9: Return to Chile
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Flexible Departure Day: Fly Home
*Subject to change based on weather and flight conditions.
Forms
Trip Code
EMPX4
To Antarctica
Dec 04 2024
From Antarctica
Dec 12 2024
Duration
9 Days
Cost
$92,500
Availability
Full
We reserve the right to revise our prices in the event of significant changes in the price of aviation kerosene and aircraft charter rates.
