Antarctica is truly one of the last real adventures. This 9-day trip combines the magnificent Emperor penguin colony with flying across the high polar plateau to the Geographic South Pole. It is the ultimate Antarctic experience for those not wanting to compromise!
Cape Town & Winelands, Cape Peninsula, Antarctica & South Pole
Departure dates:
Dates are flexible and customizable for private departures. However Departure dates: Antarctica could be visited only in summer time – November & December
The Highlights:
This ultimate journey, featuring the highest end in luxury, starts at approximately US $ 82,000 ( € 75,000 ) per person based on a private group.
Antarctica:
We will host a safety briefing where our staff will be on hand to offer advice a and answer questions about any element of the journey. They will be with you every step of the way, from explaining how the clothing systems work to what you can expect once actually in Antarctica. During this briefing, we will also confirm the exact time of departure for the flight according to the latest weather analysis. Weather can mean that schedules change. On board the plane, we pass the Antarctic Circle and into the land of the midnight sun. There are hundreds of icebergs beneath us, some iridescent blue from compacted ice. The plane you will be flying on is an Illuyshin 76 intercontinental jet. The plane lands on a specially prepared ice runway and our pilots are some of the best in the business. It’s a thrilling flight and the perfect introduction to such a bizarre and secluded continent.
At Whichaway Camp: The camp has an easy and friendly feel to it, furnished in the old world opulence of African safaris. It is run along strict environmental guidelines and powered by solar panels to minimise any impact. The main living area comprises of three large, dome tents. These are unique – fusing traditional materials with cutting-edge technology – and inside, house a dining room, library, kitchen and communications area. Our camp has been recently redesigned with the introduction of six state-of-the-art sleeping pods, each one shared by two clients. Made from extremely strong fibreglass panels, they are insulated and heated inside. The outer skin also means that during periods of high wind, the pods are very quiet, and the perfect place to relax. At just over 6m (20ft) in diameter, they are also spacious, with a double bed (for couples), a writing desk, wash area and toilet inside. For clients travelling separately, a dividing screen can be mounted for privacy, and the two single beds positioned on either side. We have a further pod containing a full shower and wash area, along with male and female toilets.
Our chef, Jenna Viney, is one of the very best in Cape Town, preparing delicious, fresh food three times a day. There are barbecued steaks and seafood, full English breakfasts and light lunches. Come the evening time, we take things easy and relax over a glass of red wine. Our philosophy is simple – do as much or as little as you like. It’s your adventure.
South Pole flight:
Even now, reaching the lowest point on earth is a feat that very few people have achieved and the flight takes you 2,400km across some of the most spectacular scenery on earth. Over unexplored mountain ranges, vast crevasse fields and the endless polar plateau, we fly all the way to 90 degrees South and the Geographic South Pole.
During the seven-hour flight, we land on the polar plateau to refuel and you will have a chance to walk around this vast, foreboding wilderness getting a real taste for the immense scale of Antarctica. Back on board, we continue to the South Pole, landing at the Amundsen-Scott American science station. At the designated marker, you will be at the lowest point on earth. At this one point there is no more East, South or West on the planet – only North and you will be able to walk around the world in just a few paces!
We will be given a tour of the American science station, learning about their scientists often ground-breaking research before going to their unique South Pole shop to buy souvenirs and even send postcards! We will then spend the night in specialist tents near the South Pole. You will be well looked after as we experience camping in one of the wildest places on earth! As you look out of your tent, you will be able to truly identify with the early explorers such as Scott and Shackleton as they raced to reach this hallowed place. The next morning, we fly back to our main camp.
Detailed Itinerary:
Please enquire for more details: info@selective-choice.com.
