I am ready for a long road flight for work with a week- or months-long projects.
PREPARING FOR A TRIP
PREPARING FOR A TRIP
FIRST STEPS
FIRST STEPS
A TRIP TO ANTARCTICA IS NOT JUST AN ADVENTURE, IT’S AN ACTIVITY THAT REQUIRES SERIOUS FINANCIAL, TECHNICAL AND MORAL PREPARATION. THIS CAN BE DONE ONLY WITH THE HELP OF A LICENSED TOUR OPERATOR. IN ANY CASE, EACH TRIP REQUIRES DETAILED APPROVAL FROM IAATO—THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF ANTARCTIC TOUR OPERATORS.
A TRIP TO ANTARCTICA IS NOT JUST AN ADVENTURE, IT’S AN ACTIVITY THAT REQUIRES SERIOUS FINANCIAL, TECHNICAL AND MORAL PREPARATION. THIS CAN BE DONE ONLY WITH THE HELP OF A LICENSED TOUR OPERATOR. IN ANY CASE, EACH TRIP REQUIRES DETAILED APPROVAL FROM IAATO—THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF ANTARCTIC TOUR OPERATORS.
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In many ways Antarctica is still closed to tourists, and every trip there is an exception to this. It is possible to organize tours only in certain countries, and with the help of certain structures.
There are no structures like this in Iceland, so we had to become a tour operator through the UK, and even set up an office there for this very purpose.
In the UK, the Foreign Office Commonwealth Committee is responsible for authorizing expeditions of this kind, and they have to make sure that we can travel and stay there safely. That we can arrange the logistics ourselves, and also make sure that we keep clean and take all the waste we produce from with us when we leave the continent.
When we organize an expedition, we must submit a plan to the Foreign Office, including contracts which confirm compliance with all the conditions (for example, contracts with one of the three companies that operate chartered planes—ALE, ALCI or White Desert). They then check the condition of people returning from our previous expeditions, including whether they needed medical assistance afterwards. And finally, we ask the question—does our expedition make sense?
There are no structures like this in Iceland, so we had to become a tour operator through the UK, and even set up an office there for this very purpose.
In the UK, the Foreign Office Commonwealth Committee is responsible for authorizing expeditions of this kind, and they have to make sure that we can travel and stay there safely. That we can arrange the logistics ourselves, and also make sure that we keep clean and take all the waste we produce from with us when we leave the continent.
When we organize an expedition, we must submit a plan to the Foreign Office, including contracts which confirm compliance with all the conditions (for example, contracts with one of the three companies that operate chartered planes—ALE, ALCI or White Desert). They then check the condition of people returning from our previous expeditions, including whether they needed medical assistance afterwards. And finally, we ask the question—does our expedition make sense?
In many ways Antarctica is still closed to tourists, and every trip there is an exception to this. It is possible to organize tours only in certain countries, and with the help of certain structures.
There are no structures like this in Iceland, so we had to become a tour operator through the UK, and even set up an office there for this very purpose.
In the UK, the Foreign Office Commonwealth Committee is responsible for authorizing expeditions of this kind, and they have to make sure that we can travel and stay there safely. That we can arrange the logistics ourselves, and also make sure that we keep clean and take all the waste we produce from with us when we leave the continent.
When we organize an expedition, we must submit a plan to the Foreign Office, including contracts which confirm compliance with all the conditions (for example, contracts with one of the three companies that operate chartered planes—ALE, ALCI or White Desert). They then check the condition of people returning from our previous expeditions, including whether they needed medical assistance afterwards. And finally, we ask the question—does our expedition make sense?
There are no structures like this in Iceland, so we had to become a tour operator through the UK, and even set up an office there for this very purpose.
In the UK, the Foreign Office Commonwealth Committee is responsible for authorizing expeditions of this kind, and they have to make sure that we can travel and stay there safely. That we can arrange the logistics ourselves, and also make sure that we keep clean and take all the waste we produce from with us when we leave the continent.
When we organize an expedition, we must submit a plan to the Foreign Office, including contracts which confirm compliance with all the conditions (for example, contracts with one of the three companies that operate chartered planes—ALE, ALCI or White Desert). They then check the condition of people returning from our previous expeditions, including whether they needed medical assistance afterwards. And finally, we ask the question—does our expedition make sense?
SEASONS AND WEATHER
SEASONS AND WEATHER
The travel season here is very short—from November to January. At this time of the year, it’s a polar day, and the sun never sets over the horizon. And it is during this short period that tourists come. The rest of the time, pitch darkness reigns. Only the workers of the polar stations stay here for the winter.
The temperature of the Antarctic summer near the coast can warm to zero; while further into the continent, temperatures can reach -35°C.
The temperature of the Antarctic summer near the coast can warm to zero; while further into the continent, temperatures can reach -35°C.
The travel season here is very short—from November to January. At this time of the year, it’s a polar day, and the sun never sets over the horizon. And it is during this short period that tourists come. The rest of the time, pitch darkness reigns. Only the workers of the polar stations stay here for the winter.
The temperature of the Antarctic summer near the coast can warm to zero; while further into the continent, temperatures can reach -35°C.
The temperature of the Antarctic summer near the coast can warm to zero; while further into the continent, temperatures can reach -35°C.
Vehicles on the Anthropogeos expedition, a Toyota Hilux 4x4 and a 6x6 at Union Glacier Camp.
Vehicles on the Anthropogeos expedition, a Toyota Hilux 4x4 and a 6x6 at Union Glacier Camp.
Day and night here are divided rather symbolically at this time of the year, since the sun is always high. However, the difference is only slightly perceptible in the air temperature. Since the tents in the camp are heated by the sun, it is preferable to sleep in them when the temperature is the highest during the day.
In season, sleeping in a tent is quite comfortable if you assemble it properly, and set up all the layers that are required to protect you from the cold. The temperature inside may well be above zero, although it will be much colder outside.
In season, sleeping in a tent is quite comfortable if you assemble it properly, and set up all the layers that are required to protect you from the cold. The temperature inside may well be above zero, although it will be much colder outside.
Day and night here are divided rather symbolically at this time of the year, since the sun is always high. However, the difference is only slightly perceptible in the air temperature. Since the tents in the camp are heated by the sun, it is preferable to sleep in them when the temperature is the highest during the day.
In season, sleeping in a tent is quite comfortable if you assemble it properly, and set up all the layers that are required to protect you from the cold. The temperature inside may well be above zero, although it will be much colder outside.
In season, sleeping in a tent is quite comfortable if you assemble it properly, and set up all the layers that are required to protect you from the cold. The temperature inside may well be above zero, although it will be much colder outside.
HOW TO GET THERE
HOW TO GET THERE
THERE ARE SEVERAL WAYS TO REACH ANTARCTICA, BY AIR AND BY WATER. BUT IF YOU ARE PLANNING TO TRAVEL INLAND, THEN THERE IS ONLY ONE OPTION—AN AIRPLANE.
THERE ARE SEVERAL WAYS TO REACH ANTARCTICA, BY AIR AND BY WATER. BUT IF YOU ARE PLANNING TO TRAVEL INLAND, THEN THERE IS ONLY ONE OPTION—AN AIRPLANE.
Members of the Anthropogeos team and local residents in front of an IL-76 on the Union Glacier.
Members of the Anthropogeos team and local residents in front of an IL-76 on the Union Glacier.
Tourists can fly to one of three airfields: ALE charter to the blue ice on the Union Glacier from Chile (Punta Arenas), ALCI charter to the runway near the Russian research station of Novolazarevskaya, or one can take a White Desert private jet from Cape Town to the Wolf's Fang runway 120 km from Novolazarevskaya.
Tourists can fly to one of three airfields: ALE charter to the blue ice on the Union Glacier from Chile (Punta Arenas), ALCI charter to the runway near the Russian research station of Novolazarevskaya, or one can take a White Desert private jet from Cape Town to the Wolf's Fang runway 120 km from Novolazarevskaya.
Map of the main tourist airfields for arriving in Antarctica.
Map of the main tourist airfields for arriving in Antarctica.
Our route started from the airport in Punta Arenas, one of the southernmost cities on the planet. Since the flight schedule to Antarctica is not stable, fluctuating as it does based on weather conditions, it is worth allowing oneself an additional three days before departure.
Our route started from the airport in Punta Arenas, one of the southernmost cities on the planet. Since the flight schedule to Antarctica is not stable, fluctuating as it does based on weather conditions, it is worth allowing oneself an additional three days before departure.
Here, at ALE’s office, a mandatory briefing is given to all tourists, and then the pilots wait for the flight weather. It is quite capricious even in high season, so the flight may well be confirmed without any notice, and literally within an hour and a half, you may need to pack up and get to the airport.
Here, at ALE’s office, a mandatory briefing is given to all tourists, and then the pilots wait for the flight weather. It is quite capricious even in high season, so the flight may well be confirmed without any notice, and literally within an hour and a half, you may need to pack up and get to the airport.
Punta Arenas is mainly frequented by updated Soviet IL-76 cargo planes, which are designed for flying and landing in extreme conditions. The cargo compartment, converted to carry passengers, can accommodate up to 60 people. The flight lasts a little over 4 hours, and already at the third hour the first ice can be seen from the window.
Punta Arenas is mainly frequented by updated Soviet IL-76 cargo planes, which are designed for flying and landing in extreme conditions. The cargo compartment, converted to carry passengers, can accommodate up to 60 people. The flight lasts a little over 4 hours, and already at the third hour the first ice can be seen from the window.
The cabin of an IL-76.
View from the window when approaching Antarctica.
The cabin of an IL-76.
View from the window when approaching Antarctica.
MAINLAND. DISPLACEMENT
MAINLAND. DISPLACEMENT
FURTHER MOVEMENT IS ALSO STRICTLY CONTROLLED AND CONDUCTED ALONG EXPLORED AND PROVEN ROUTES IN ORDER TO AVOID ACCIDENTS. THE MOST COMMON ROUTES YOU CAN TAKE TO PLAN YOUR TRIP ARE:
FURTHER MOVEMENT IS ALSO STRICTLY CONTROLLED AND CONDUCTED ALONG EXPLORED AND PROVEN ROUTES IN ORDER TO AVOID ACCIDENTS. THE MOST COMMON ROUTES YOU CAN TAKE TO PLAN YOUR TRIP ARE:
From the Union Glacier (or Hercules Bay) to the South Pole, by car, plane, ski and other means of transportation. The distance is about 1200 km.
A skiing trip through the last degree to the South Pole, about 110 km.
From Novolazarevskaya station (Novo) to the South Pole.
From the Union Glacier (or Hercules Bay) to the South Pole, by car, plane, ski and other means of transportation. The distance is about 1200 km.
A skiing trip through the last degree to the South Pole, about 110 km.
From Novolazarevskaya station (Novo) to the South Pole.
THE POLE OF INACCESSIBILITY, WHICH OUR TEAM VISITED BETWEEN THE SOUTH POLE AND NOVO, IS RARELY INCLUDED IN ROUTES AS THE ROAD IS TOO DIFFICULT AND LONG.
THE POLE OF INACCESSIBILITY, WHICH OUR TEAM VISITED BETWEEN THE SOUTH POLE AND NOVO, IS RARELY INCLUDED IN ROUTES AS THE ROAD IS TOO DIFFICULT AND LONG.
For transport, most travelers opt for cars or all-terrain vehicles, and skis (often also with support cars, if the group is inexperienced with polar expeditions) and, finally, planes for when the route is to be completed in a few days, or to travel to the South Pole and back. This, incidentally, is one of the most difficult and uncomfortable options in terms of physical sensations, with the difference in altitude between the departure point and the South Pole being more than two thousand meters. The body simply does not have time to acclimate and, instead of pleasure, tourists often experience headaches, dizziness and nausea.
Aircraft for domestic flights based on Union.
For transport, most travelers opt for cars or all-terrain vehicles, and skis (often also with support cars, if the group is inexperienced with polar expeditions) and, finally, planes for when the route is to be completed in a few days, or to travel to the South Pole and back. This, incidentally, is one of the most difficult and uncomfortable options in terms of physical sensations, with the difference in altitude between the departure point and the South Pole being more than two thousand meters. The body simply does not have time to acclimate and, instead of pleasure, tourists often experience headaches, dizziness and nausea.
Aircraft for domestic flights based on Union.
But there are much more unusual modes of transport that have been encountered among Antarctic tourists over the past few years. For example, kites. Antarctica is the windiest continent on the planet, so harnessing the power of the wind to move here is quite logical. Single travelers, as well as entire groups go on kites, having built a mobile camp on a sleigh. Sleds with sails are vehicles from the same category. Some routes, such as those around the Union Glacier, offer 4WD wide-wheel bikes.
Cyclist at Union Camp.
But there are much more unusual modes of transport that have been encountered among Antarctic tourists over the past few years. For example, kites. Antarctica is the windiest continent on the planet, so harnessing the power of the wind to move here is quite logical. Single travelers, as well as entire groups go on kites, having built a mobile camp on a sleigh. Sleds with sails are vehicles from the same category. Some routes, such as those around the Union Glacier, offer 4WD wide-wheel bikes.
Cyclist at Union Camp.
CARS
CARS
OUR TEAM CHOSE MODIFIED TOYOTA HILUXES BUILT BY ARCTIC TRUCKS FOR THEIR TRIP.
OUR TEAM CHOSE MODIFIED TOYOTA HILUXES BUILT BY ARCTIC TRUCKS FOR THEIR TRIP.
Initially, these cars were created for difficult terrain in Iceland, then tested in Greenland, and at the North and South Poles. These are SUVs which use large wheels with controlled tire pressure. It is the reduced pressure and increased surface contact that allows them to ride on snow and ice easily. These vehicles are now used throughout Antarctica for work, travel and research expeditions.
Initially, these cars were created for difficult terrain in Iceland, then tested in Greenland, and at the North and South Poles. These are SUVs which use large wheels with controlled tire pressure. It is the reduced pressure and increased surface contact that allows them to ride on snow and ice easily. These vehicles are now used throughout Antarctica for work, travel and research expeditions.
Cars on the Anthropogeos expedition.
Cars on the Anthropogeos expedition.
For the winter season, the cars remain in Antarctica, so the first thing to do upon returning to the mainland is to dig them out of the snowdrifts, and then to clear the engines and interiors from snow. Getting them started is not so difficult, even after nine months of inactivity. Then a workshop is built so that all tools and parts can be checked, as it is necessary to make sure that absolutely everything that may be needed in the next 3 months is present and correct. Finally, fuel calculations are performed.
Machines and their condition are the main concern of mechanics upon arrival in Antarctica. Food, equipment and items are usually thought out well in advance and by this time, everything is ready.
Machines and their condition are the main concern of mechanics upon arrival in Antarctica. Food, equipment and items are usually thought out well in advance and by this time, everything is ready.
For the winter season, the cars remain in Antarctica, so the first thing to do upon returning to the mainland is to dig them out of the snowdrifts, and then to clear the engines and interiors from snow. Getting them started is not so difficult, even after nine months of inactivity. Then a workshop is built so that all tools and parts can be checked, as it is necessary to make sure that absolutely everything that may be needed in the next 3 months is present and correct. Finally, fuel calculations are performed.
Machines and their condition are the main concern of mechanics upon arrival in Antarctica. Food, equipment and items are usually thought out well in advance and by this time, everything is ready.
Machines and their condition are the main concern of mechanics upon arrival in Antarctica. Food, equipment and items are usually thought out well in advance and by this time, everything is ready.
Anthropogeos team: Sardar S. Sardarov, Hlynur Sigurðsson, Eiður Smári. At Novolazarevskaya station.
Anthropogeos team: Sardar S. Sardarov, Hlynur Sigurðsson, Eiður Smári. At Novolazarevskaya station.
IN ANY EXPEDITION, THERE ARE AT LEAST TWO CARS AND AT LEAST TWO GUIDES TAKING PART. BOTH ARE EXPERIENCED MECHANICS. AND IF PART OF THE TRIP IS CARRIED OUT ON SKIS, THEN ONE OF THE GUIDES WILL BE A PHYSICIAN WITH A HIGH LEVEL OF TECHNICAL TRAINING.
IN ANY EXPEDITION, THERE ARE AT LEAST TWO CARS AND AT LEAST TWO GUIDES TAKING PART. BOTH ARE EXPERIENCED MECHANICS. AND IF PART OF THE TRIP IS CARRIED OUT ON SKIS, THEN ONE OF THE GUIDES WILL BE A PHYSICIAN WITH A HIGH LEVEL OF TECHNICAL TRAINING.
These should be people who can drive a car for 16 hours in the white desert, sleep for three hours in a tent, work 24 hours without a break at -30°C and keep a smile on their face while doing it. Not the most common combination of personality traits.
The maximum occupancy of the car is 3 people, including the driver, because the interior is quite small (besides, photographic equipment and other electronics are stored in the back seat), and people should be comfortable there.
Each guide is prepared for such trips gradually, provided as they are with the opportunity to work on projects where the complexity of tasks grows over time. Moreover, the head of the company personally spends quite a lot of time with each of them to assess how they might act in any given situation, and how they react to different external conditions.
The maximum occupancy of the car is 3 people, including the driver, because the interior is quite small (besides, photographic equipment and other electronics are stored in the back seat), and people should be comfortable there.
Each guide is prepared for such trips gradually, provided as they are with the opportunity to work on projects where the complexity of tasks grows over time. Moreover, the head of the company personally spends quite a lot of time with each of them to assess how they might act in any given situation, and how they react to different external conditions.
These should be people who can drive a car for 16 hours in the white desert, sleep for three hours in a tent, work 24 hours without a break at -30°C and keep a smile on their face while doing it. Not the most common combination of personality traits.
The maximum occupancy of the car is 3 people, including the driver, because the interior is quite small (besides, photographic equipment and other electronics are stored in the back seat), and people should be comfortable there.
Each guide is prepared for such trips gradually, provided as they are with the opportunity to work on projects where the complexity of tasks grows over time. Moreover, the head of the company personally spends quite a lot of time with each of them to assess how they might act in any given situation, and how they react to different external conditions.
The maximum occupancy of the car is 3 people, including the driver, because the interior is quite small (besides, photographic equipment and other electronics are stored in the back seat), and people should be comfortable there.
Each guide is prepared for such trips gradually, provided as they are with the opportunity to work on projects where the complexity of tasks grows over time. Moreover, the head of the company personally spends quite a lot of time with each of them to assess how they might act in any given situation, and how they react to different external conditions.
Eiður and Hlynur, the mechanic-drivers on the Anthropogeos team.
Eiður and Hlynur, the mechanic-drivers on the Anthropogeos team.
Despite cars being common vehicles, driving them in snow is not at all the same as driving them on highways. The maximum speed on a safe road is 30-40 km per hour, which is rather the exception than the rule. Basically, one’s speed does not exceed 10-15 km per hour, so the seemingly modest distance of 1000 km on the mainland turns here into a multi-day hike with overnight stays in the middle of an ice field.
Despite cars being common vehicles, driving them in snow is not at all the same as driving them on highways. The maximum speed on a safe road is 30-40 km per hour, which is rather the exception than the rule. Basically, one’s speed does not exceed 10-15 km per hour, so the seemingly modest distance of 1000 km on the mainland turns here into a multi-day hike with overnight stays in the middle of an ice field.
TIME
TIME
To organize an expedition along a well-known route, for example, from Union to the South Pole by car, you need to be ready to confirm and pay no later than May, a little more than six months before your departure.
It is better to confirm the flight a year in advance or even a little further, at the beginning of the previous season. Since there are very few flights (only up to 20 for the entire season), the places on them are quickly snapped up. But in exceptional cases, in an unpopular year, you can organize everything in 4-5 months.
It is better to confirm the flight a year in advance or even a little further, at the beginning of the previous season. Since there are very few flights (only up to 20 for the entire season), the places on them are quickly snapped up. But in exceptional cases, in an unpopular year, you can organize everything in 4-5 months.
To organize an expedition along a well-known route, for example, from Union to the South Pole by car, you need to be ready to confirm and pay no later than May, a little more than six months before your departure.
It is better to confirm the flight a year in advance or even a little further, at the beginning of the previous season. Since there are very few flights (only up to 20 for the entire season), the places on them are quickly snapped up. But in exceptional cases, in an unpopular year, you can organize everything in 4-5 months.
It is better to confirm the flight a year in advance or even a little further, at the beginning of the previous season. Since there are very few flights (only up to 20 for the entire season), the places on them are quickly snapped up. But in exceptional cases, in an unpopular year, you can organize everything in 4-5 months.
PRICES
PRICES
WITH THE DEVELOPMENT OF TOURISM, ANTARCTICA HAS CEASED TO BE A PIPE DREAM FOR MOST OF THE WORLD'S POPULATION.
WITH THE DEVELOPMENT OF TOURISM, ANTARCTICA HAS CEASED TO BE A PIPE DREAM FOR MOST OF THE WORLD'S POPULATION.
Not all trips there cost a fortune, and, in fact, one can find a variety of options to suit almost any wallet.
For one day by private jet from Cape Town, you can fly to Antarctica for 14.5 thousand dollars (this option is offered by the White Desert company), but the cost of a long individual tour by car with full immersion (including the South Pole) starts from 130 thousand euros (tours do not include the flight to the place of departure in Antarctica, be it Punta Arenas or Cape Town, which is worth getting on your own).
A trip which includes arriving and leaving, along with a short flight into the interior of the continent can cost 40-50 thousand USD. Travelling to the peninsula without moving inland is much cheaper.
Emil Grimsson, CEO of Arctic Trucks International, predicts significant price reductions over the next few years when vehicles that can accommodate three passengers in addition to the driver will be launched on a regular basis. If it becomes possible to organize two or three tours per season, then the cost for them will drop below 100 thousand USD for 7-8 days. Tours to the territory of Queen Maud Land are also in the works, which will not include the South Pole, for which costs will run to 50-60 thousand USD with a flight from Cape Town.
For one day by private jet from Cape Town, you can fly to Antarctica for 14.5 thousand dollars (this option is offered by the White Desert company), but the cost of a long individual tour by car with full immersion (including the South Pole) starts from 130 thousand euros (tours do not include the flight to the place of departure in Antarctica, be it Punta Arenas or Cape Town, which is worth getting on your own).
A trip which includes arriving and leaving, along with a short flight into the interior of the continent can cost 40-50 thousand USD. Travelling to the peninsula without moving inland is much cheaper.
Emil Grimsson, CEO of Arctic Trucks International, predicts significant price reductions over the next few years when vehicles that can accommodate three passengers in addition to the driver will be launched on a regular basis. If it becomes possible to organize two or three tours per season, then the cost for them will drop below 100 thousand USD for 7-8 days. Tours to the territory of Queen Maud Land are also in the works, which will not include the South Pole, for which costs will run to 50-60 thousand USD with a flight from Cape Town.
Not all trips there cost a fortune, and, in fact, one can find a variety of options to suit almost any wallet.
For one day by private jet from Cape Town, you can fly to Antarctica for 14.5 thousand dollars (this option is offered by the White Desert company), but the cost of a long individual tour by car with full immersion (including the South Pole) starts from 130 thousand euros (tours do not include the flight to the place of departure in Antarctica, be it Punta Arenas or Cape Town, which is worth getting on your own).
A trip which includes arriving and leaving, along with a short flight into the interior of the continent can cost 40-50 thousand USD. Travelling to the peninsula without moving inland is much cheaper.
Emil Grimsson, CEO of Arctic Trucks International, predicts significant price reductions over the next few years when vehicles that can accommodate three passengers in addition to the driver will be launched on a regular basis. If it becomes possible to organize two or three tours per season, then the cost for them will drop below 100 thousand USD for 7-8 days. Tours to the territory of Queen Maud Land are also in the works, which will not include the South Pole, for which costs will run to 50-60 thousand USD with a flight from Cape Town.
For one day by private jet from Cape Town, you can fly to Antarctica for 14.5 thousand dollars (this option is offered by the White Desert company), but the cost of a long individual tour by car with full immersion (including the South Pole) starts from 130 thousand euros (tours do not include the flight to the place of departure in Antarctica, be it Punta Arenas or Cape Town, which is worth getting on your own).
A trip which includes arriving and leaving, along with a short flight into the interior of the continent can cost 40-50 thousand USD. Travelling to the peninsula without moving inland is much cheaper.
Emil Grimsson, CEO of Arctic Trucks International, predicts significant price reductions over the next few years when vehicles that can accommodate three passengers in addition to the driver will be launched on a regular basis. If it becomes possible to organize two or three tours per season, then the cost for them will drop below 100 thousand USD for 7-8 days. Tours to the territory of Queen Maud Land are also in the works, which will not include the South Pole, for which costs will run to 50-60 thousand USD with a flight from Cape Town.
EQUIPMENT
EQUIPMENT
CHOICE OF OUTFIT AND EQUIPMENT FOR AN EXPEDITION OF THIS NATURE IS CRITICAL.
CHOICE OF OUTFIT AND EQUIPMENT FOR AN EXPEDITION OF THIS NATURE IS CRITICAL.
They both should allow you to spend the night in a tent on the snow at very low temperatures (during our expedition, the thermometer dropped below -30 degrees). However, since the climate in Antarctica is very dry, the problem of cold can easily be solved with multilayered clothing.
The clothing of a polar explorer consists of five layers (excluding linen), and for a trip in 21 days you will need several changes for each of the layers.
The clothing of a polar explorer consists of five layers (excluding linen), and for a trip in 21 days you will need several changes for each of the layers.
They both should allow you to spend the night in a tent on the snow at very low temperatures (during our expedition, the thermometer dropped below -30 degrees). However, since the climate in Antarctica is very dry, the problem of cold can easily be solved with multilayered clothing.
The clothing of a polar explorer consists of five layers (excluding linen), and for a trip in 21 days you will need several changes for each of the layers.
The clothing of a polar explorer consists of five layers (excluding linen), and for a trip in 21 days you will need several changes for each of the layers.
BASE LAYER
✔ Thermal underwear with long sleeves, top and bottom, made of moisture-wicking materials (polyester, merino wool, silk).
✔ 4 changes.
✔ 4 changes.
MIDDLE LAYER
✔ One thick elasticated top (preferably with a hood) and bottoms. Materials: polyester, merino wool, stretch fleece, waffle fleece.
INSULATING LAYER
✔ One thin, lightweight, full-zip insulating jacket. Materials: medium/thick fleece, light down, light synthetic insulation.
WINDPROOF LAYER
✔ One windproof jacket with a hood and pants (if you plan to visit penguin colonies, but must be waterproof and with a hardshell membrane, if not, softshell is enough).
✔ 3 pairs of thin socks, 3 pairs of thick wool socks.
✔ 3 pairs of thin socks, 3 pairs of thick wool socks.
POLAR INSULATING LAYER
✔ One spacious and long down jacket with a hood, pants with full-length side zippers with down or synthetic insulation.
✔ Insulated waterproof boots, lighter boots for warmer weather.
✔ Insulated waterproof boots, lighter boots for warmer weather.
BASE LAYER
✔ Thermal underwear with long sleeves, top and bottom, made of moisture-wicking materials (polyester, merino wool, silk).
✔ 4 changes.
✔ 4 changes.
MIDDLE LAYER
✔ One thick elasticated top (preferably with a hood) and bottoms. Materials: polyester, merino wool, stretch fleece, waffle fleece.
INSULATING LAYER
✔ One thin, lightweight, full-zip insulating jacket. Materials: medium/thick fleece, light down, light synthetic insulation.
WINDPROOF LAYER
✔ One windproof jacket with a hood and pants (if you plan to visit penguin colonies, but must be waterproof and with a hardshell membrane, if not, softshell is enough).
✔ 3 pairs of thin socks, 3 pairs of thick wool socks.
✔ 3 pairs of thin socks, 3 pairs of thick wool socks.
POLAR INSULATING LAYER
✔ One spacious and long down jacket with a hood, pants with full-length side zippers with down or synthetic insulation.
✔ Insulated waterproof boots, lighter boots for warmer weather.
✔ Insulated waterproof boots, lighter boots for warmer weather.
✔ Hate made of wool or fleece, covering the ears.
✔ A balaclava or face mask.
✔ A scarf to cover the neck and lower part of the face.
✔ Sunglasses with non-metallic frames and 100% UV protection.
✔ Goggles for cold and stormy conditions.
✔ Goggles for cold and stormy conditions.
✔ Large check-in bag.
✔ Small backpack for hand luggage.
✔ Lip balm (no less than SPF 50).
✔ Toiletry bag with washcloth.
✔ Small towel.
✔ Lotion.
✔ Plasters.
✔ Callus plasters.
✔ Sleep mask, earplugs.
✔ Lip balm (no less than SPF 50).
✔ Toiletry bag with washcloth.
✔ Small towel.
✔ Lotion.
✔ Plasters.
✔ Callus plasters.
✔ Sleep mask, earplugs.
✔ 3 bottles (for water and urine), one insulating bag.
✔ Sleeping bag up to -40.
✔ Sunscreen (no less SPF 50).
✔ Wet wipes.
✔ Toothbrush and toothpaste.
✔ Hate made of wool or fleece, covering the ears.
✔ A balaclava or face mask.
✔ A scarf to cover the neck and lower part of the face
✔ Sunglasses with non-metallic frames and 100% UV protection.
✔ Goggles for cold and stormy conditions.
✔ Goggles for cold and stormy conditions.
✔ Large check-in bag.
✔ Small backpack for hand luggage.
✔ Lip balm (no less than SPF 50).
✔ Toiletry bag with washcloth.
✔ Small towel.
✔ Lotion.
✔ Plasters.
✔ Callus plasters.
✔ Sleep mask, earplugs.
✔ Lip balm (no less than SPF 50).
✔ Toiletry bag with washcloth.
✔ Small towel.
✔ Lotion.
✔ Plasters.
✔ Callus plasters.
✔ Sleep mask, earplugs.
✔ 3 bottles (for water and urine), one insulating bag.
✔ Спальник до -40.
✔ Sunscreen (no less SPF 50).
✔ Wet wipes.
✔ Toothbrush and toothpaste.
✔ 2 pairs of thin (polyester, merino wool, silk, Power Stretch fleece).
✔ 1 pair of medium insulated waterproof gloves.
✔ 1 pair of thick large mittens with fasteners.
✔ 1 pair of medium insulated waterproof gloves.
✔ 1 pair of thick large mittens with fasteners.
made of wool or fleece, covering the ears; a scarf to cover the neck and lower part of the face; and a balaclava or face mask.
with non-metallic frames and 100% UV protection. Goggles for cold and stormy conditions.
✔ Large check-in bag.
✔ Small backpack for hand luggage.
✔ 3 bottles (for water and urine), one insulating bag.
✔ Sleeping bag up to -40.
✔ Lip balm (no less than SPF 50).
✔ Sunscreen (no less SPF 50).
✔ Toiletry bag with washcloth.
✔ Small towel.
✔ Wet wipes.
✔ Toothbrush and toothpaste.
✔ Lotion.
✔ Plasters.
✔ Callus plasters.
✔ Sleep mask, earplugs.
✔ Small backpack for hand luggage.
✔ 3 bottles (for water and urine), one insulating bag.
✔ Sleeping bag up to -40.
✔ Lip balm (no less than SPF 50).
✔ Sunscreen (no less SPF 50).
✔ Toiletry bag with washcloth.
✔ Small towel.
✔ Wet wipes.
✔ Toothbrush and toothpaste.
✔ Lotion.
✔ Plasters.
✔ Callus plasters.
✔ Sleep mask, earplugs.
✔ 2 pairs of thin (polyester, merino wool, silk, Power Stretch fleece).
✔ 1 pair of medium insulated waterproof gloves.
✔ 1 pair of thick large mittens with fasteners.
✔ 1 pair of medium insulated waterproof gloves.
✔ 1 pair of thick large mittens with fasteners.
made of wool or fleece, covering the ears; a scarf to cover the neck and lower part of the face; and a balaclava or face mask.
with non-metallic frames and 100% UV protection. Goggles for cold and stormy conditions.
✔ Large check-in bag.
✔ Small backpack for hand luggage.
✔ 3 bottles (for water and urine), one insulating bag.
✔ Sleeping bag up to -40.
✔ Lip balm (no less than SPF 50).
✔ Sunscreen (no less SPF 50).
✔ Toiletry bag with washcloth.
✔ Small towel.
✔ Wet wipes.
✔ Toothbrush and toothpaste.
✔ Lotion.
✔ Plasters.
✔ Callus plasters.
✔ Sleep mask, earplugs.
✔ Small backpack for hand luggage.
✔ 3 bottles (for water and urine), one insulating bag.
✔ Sleeping bag up to -40.
✔ Lip balm (no less than SPF 50).
✔ Sunscreen (no less SPF 50).
✔ Toiletry bag with washcloth.
✔ Small towel.
✔ Wet wipes.
✔ Toothbrush and toothpaste.
✔ Lotion.
✔ Plasters.
✔ Callus plasters.
✔ Sleep mask, earplugs.
You will also need to sign and fill out a medical form and provide a certificate stating that you have no issues preventing you from being in extreme conditions, buy insurance, visit a dentist (just in case), and get to Punta Arenas or Cape Town, depending on what kind of expedition you’re going on.
The mainland tour starts from the runway at Union Glacier, where we met with our guides.
The mainland tour starts from the runway at Union Glacier, where we met with our guides.
You will also need to sign and fill out a medical form and provide a certificate stating that you have no issues preventing you from being in extreme conditions, buy insurance, visit a dentist (just in case), and get to Punta Arenas or Cape Town, depending on what kind of expedition you’re going on.
The mainland tour starts from the runway at Union Glacier, where we met with our guides.
The mainland tour starts from the runway at Union Glacier, where we met with our guides.
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I WHAT IS ANTARCTICA
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III UNION GLACIER
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III UNION GLACIER
Previous chapter
I WHAT IS ANTARCTICA
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