Rope team climbs snow slope en route to summit
Mount Sidley / © Dylan Taylor
Overview
Be among the few to have climbed Antarctica’s highest volcano and one of the Volcanic Seven Summits. Join the ultimate mountaineering expedition to Mount Sidley 14,058 ft (4285 m) and stand atop one of the most remote summits on earth.
Sidley is a huge mountain, set on the white expanse of the Polar Ice Sheet. This majestic peak features a 3 mi (5 km) wide caldera and sheer walled amphitheater, created by an explosive eruption 4.7 million years ago. Blue-ice slopes guard the upper mountain and fantastical snow mushrooms sprout along the upper ridge, leading to the summit.
Mount Sidley was first climbed in 1990 by New Zealander Bill Atkinson and saw its second ascent in 2010 by an ALE guided team. Our team established a new route up the east ridge and traversed all three summits. Plenty of lines remain to be climbed and ALE continues to lead the way in exploring this remote peak in Antarctica.
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.
Mount Sidley climbers should prepare for extreme temperatures -40°F (-40°C) and severe storms.
Activity Level
Strenuous
Strenuous trips include skiing, climbing, and trekking trips where you spend several days or more in remote field camps and you are active for 6-8 hours a day over steeper, more rugged terrain. They can involve climbing and camping at altitude and in extreme weather conditions. These trips can be tailored to your skills and abilities, however a good level of fitness is essential and some technical skills may be required.
Inclusions
What's Included
- Airport transfers in Punta Arenas, Chile
- Round trip flight to Antarctica from Punta Arenas
- Round trip flight to Mount Sidley from Union Glacier
- Meals and tented accommodation in Antarctica
- Group camping and climbing equipment
- Mountain Guide
- Celebration event and Certificate of Achievement
- Checked luggage up to 55 lb (25 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 55 lb (25 kg)
- Satellite phone charges
12 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 2-3: Expedition Preparations
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Day 4: Fly to Mount Sidley
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Day 5-10: The Ascent
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Day 11: Return to Union Glacier
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Day 12: Return to Chile
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Flexible Departure Day: Fly Home
*Subject to change based on weather and flight conditions.
Skills and Experience
Although Sidley is not technically difficult, it is a serious mountain due to its elevation 14,058 ft (4285m), latitude (77°S), cold –25F (-30C) and extremely remote location. You should have experience with multi-day peaks in cold environments; climbing at altitude >14,000 ft (4300m); and with unsupported alpine-style ascents in winter conditions. Proficiency with an ice axe and crampons on slopes to 45 degrees and with roped glacier travel is essential.
Training
This is a very strenous alpine-style ascent. Expect to carry a 55lb (25kg) expedition pack, with all equipment and supplies.
Forms
Trip Code
SIDLEY1
To Antarctica
Jan 10 2025
From Antarctica
Jan 21 2025
Duration
12 Days
Cost
$72,975
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.
Climb Mount Sidley Maps
Sidley map detail
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