Expeditions to the Antarctic Interior and the South Pole
One of the world's ultimate adventures
Information about The South Pole & Antarctic Interior
Fewer than 500 people a year have access to the expansive and pristine wilderness that is the interior of Antarctica. This uncharted terrain offers endless possibilities to those who dare to explore it: fly or ski to the South Pole, scale the heights of Mount Vinson, spend time among emperor penguins, hike over shimmering blue ice, or simply pause to witness the ethereal light shifts on the sastrugi, all the while knowing that you are in one of the most isolated locations on the planet.
Unlike a Polar Expedition Cruise, which focuses on exploring the coastal regions of Antarctica, a South Pole expedition is primarily focused on reaching the actual South Pole itself. Travelers on a South Pole expedition can expect to spend several weeks in the extreme and isolated environment of the polar plateau, traversing vast expanses of snow and ice while navigating the logistical challenges of operating in such an inhospitable environment.
Activities on a South Pole expedition can include skiing, snowshoeing, and ice climbing, as well as visits to scientific research stations and historic landmarks. The journey to the South Pole can be physically demanding and requires a significant amount of preparation and training, but the experience of standing at the bottom of the world and witnessing the incredible polar landscape is truly one-of-a-kind.
Overall, a South Pole expedition is a remarkable adventure for those seeking a unique and challenging journey to one of the most remote and fascinating places on Earth.
Interesting facts about The South Pole & Antarctic Interior
The South Pole was first discovered by the Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen on December 14, 1911, who led an expedition to the Pole using dog sleds. A rival British expedition led by Robert F. Scott also attempted to reach the Pole but arrived a month after Amundsen and perished on the return journey.
The South Pole experiences six months of daylight and six months of darkness. During the summer months, the sun never sets, providing 24-hour daylight, while in the winter, the sun never rises, resulting in complete darkness for months on end.
The South Pole is located on a plateau over 9,000 feet above sea level, making it one of the highest points on the continent. The extreme altitude and cold temperatures create an inhospitable environment that requires specialized equipment and training for survival.
Trips to the South Pole require significant planning and resources, and only a few hundred people make the journey each year. Despite the challenges, travelers who undertake the journey are rewarded with unparalleled views of the surrounding polar landscape, including towering ice formations, crystal-clear skies, and the iconic South Pole marker.
Pictures of The South Pole & Antarctic Interior
