EXPLORING WITH
EMPERORS

Perhaps the most exclusive wildlife spectacle on Earth is to spend time with the Emperor Penguins, a majestic species considered one of the most resilient species on Earth. Their hardiness both impressed and inspired the early explorers.

Perhaps the most exclusive destination on Earth is the Geographic South Pole. The heroic journeys of the early explorers such as Amundsen, Scott and Shackleton continue to fascinate and inspire.

Using ski aircraft we are able to fly to Gould Bay to camp on the sea-ice with the Emperors in their natural habitat. We then return to our main base and prepare to fly to the South Pole. History comes alive as we stand at 90° South and imagine how they felt heading out across the frozen continent and into the unknown 100 years ago.

This experience captures two of the most iconic experiences in the polar world; Emperor Penguins and the South Pole.

Our expedition then continues to an Emperor Penguin colony, where over the following days, you will immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and rhythms of the colony— a rare opportunity to live among the largest and heaviest penguin species, and undisputed icons of the Antarctic.

Over the next days, you will immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and rhythms of the colony. Our team will assist you to walk to the colony to photograph penguins and seabirds. We provide small sleds and walking poles to help transport your camera equipment between camp and the colony. The sea ice generally provides a hard surface to walk on.

We do not wish to disturb wildlife at all and strictly follow Emperor Penguin Colony Visitor Guidelines. These include keeping a minimum distance of 17 ft (5 m) from all wildlife, including seals. We also have enhanced biosecurity procedures to minimize the chance of introducing avian influenza (HPAI). Our team are on hand to answer any questions you may have about the wildlife and their unique adaptations to the Antarctic environment.

24-hour daylight allows us to adapt our schedule to the best weather and lighting for photography. While our team are happy to accommodate individual requests, please discuss your wishes with them in advance so they can tailor the camp schedule to include meals and sleep for everyone.

RETURN TO UNION GLACIEROur team will stay in close contact with Union Glacier to identify the best ‘weather window’ for your return flight. Depending on your flights, you may have a day or two at the end of your experience to explore more of Union Glacier.

Altitude adjustmentOur guides are there to help you prepare for the extreme cold and the effects of altitude as you deplane. South Pole temperatures range from -31° to -13°F (-35° to -25°C) and even the slightest breeze can quickly freeze exposed skin. Put on warm layers and cover your hands and face completely.

The physiological altitude (how high it feels) at the South Pole is roughly 11,000 ft (3300 m). You may feel the effects of altitude, including shortness of breath and mild headache. Take it slow and steady to help your body cope with these unfamiliar conditions.

One of our experienced medics accompanies all South Pole flights and is ready to assist you should you have any issues with the cold or altitude.

Amundsen-Scott StationThe United States of America maintains a research station at the South Pole, named Amundsen-Scott Station in memory of those intrepid explorers.

Outside the station, you will have plenty of time to take photos at both the Geographic and Ceremonial Poles. Enjoy this special place and imagine how it must have felt to stand here a century ago with only the sound of the wind and an endless expanse of white stretching northward in all directions.

Our intercontinental flight back to South America (Union Glacier – Punta Arenas) is dependent on weather. The timing of the flight will depend on weather and delays are always a possibility. Upon arrival in Punta Arenas you will be met and transferred to your hotel for the evening.

Weather Delay AdvisoryAll itineraries are subject to change based on weather and flight conditions. Every effort will be made to keep to the scheduled itinerary and flights will depart as soon as weather and runway conditions permit. Please understand that delays are common in Antarctic travel. For this reason we advise you not to plan any important meetings, functions, or other trips for at least one week following your scheduled return from Antarctica.