Team celebrates arrival at Ceremonial South Pole
Ski South Pole - Axel Heiberg / © Eric Larsen
Overview
Test your limits on an extreme expedition marked by deep snow, steep climbs, and complex route-finding. Traverse the same terrain Amundsen discovered more than 100 years ago. Climb the steep Axel Heiberg Glacier, bounded by majestic peaks on both sides, and navigate your way around the infamous maze of crevasses known as the Devil’s Ballroom.
While Amundsen traveled by dog sled, you’ll travel by ski for 7-10 hours a day and pull your own sled, weighing 132-177 lb (60-80 kg). The challenges continue on the polar plateau where elevations reach almost 10,500 ft (3200 m) and temperatures plummet.
You’ll experience all types of weather, facing constant winds, fields of sastrugi, and white-out conditions. The rewards for completing the Axel Heiberg route are tangible as you reach the Geographic South Pole and follow in the footsteps of Antarctica’s great explorers.
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 range from -13°F to -40°F (-25°C to -40°C) with windchill down to -50°F (-50°C).
Activity Level
Extremely Strenuous
Extremely strenuous trips include skiing and climbing expeditions in the most remote corners of Antarctica, where physiological altitude may exceed 11,000 feet (3350m) for many days in a row, and temperatures may drop below (–40°F / –40°C), with severe wind chill and storms. You will be active for 8-12 hours a day carrying or hauling heavy loads for many days in a row. You must have the physical ability to cover a minimum daily distance and the mental stamina to continue in extreme conditions when you are physically tired. Technical skill, a high level of strength and aerobic fitness, and commitment to a dedicated pre-trip training program are required.
Inclusions
What's Included
- Airport transfers in Punta Arenas, Chile
- Round trip flight to Antarctica from Punta Arenas
- Flight to Axel Heiberg Glacier from Union Glacier
- Flight to Union Glacier from South Pole
- Meals and tented accommodation in Antarctica
- Camping equipment, sled, and harness
- Expedition Guide
- 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
- Vehicle pick-up and transfer to South Pole if you are unable to complete the expedition
- Personal equipment and clothing
- Expenses incurred due to delays
- Luggage over 66 lb (30 kg)
- Satellite phone charges
48 Days
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Arrival Day: Punta Arenas, Chile
Please arrive 6 nights before your trip start date
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Pre-departure Days: Equipment Checks, Food Packing, Welcome and Safety Briefing
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Day 1: Fly to Antarctica
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Day 2-4: Expedition Preparations
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Day 5-14: Axel Heiberg Glacier
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Day 15-45: The Polar Plateau
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Day 46: Arrive at the South Pole
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Day 47: Return to Union Glacier
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Day 48: Return to Chile
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Flexible Departure Day: Fly Home
*Subject to change based on weather and flight conditions.
Skiing and cold weather camping experience as well as a high level of fitness. Participants must undertake rigorous daily training for several months prior to the expedition.
Forms
Resources
Trip Code
SKSP-AH
To Antarctica
Nov 18 2024
From Antarctica
Jan 04 2025
Duration
48 Days
Cost
$0
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.
Ski South Pole - Axel Heiberg Maps
sksp-ah-new
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