Journey to Antarctica with White Desert — The World’s Most Exclusive Polar Experience

The core itineraries are Early Emperors (5–6 days), South Pole & Emperors (7–8 days), and Best of Both (7–8 days).

A 5–6 day journey focused on visiting an Emperor Penguin colony when chicks are taking their first steps, with luxury camp accommodation and guided activities.

Typically in November, before South Pole departures begin, aligning with prime penguin-chick viewing.

A vast Emperor Penguin colony, dramatic ice landscapes, and optional light activities (short hikes, ice tunnels) tailored to conditions and guest preferences.

No—the South Pole flight is part of the South Pole & Emperors and Best of Both itineraries.

Expect a full day out (weather permitting), with expert guides managing time on site to minimize wildlife impact and maximize guest experience.

You’ll stay at one of White Desert’s luxury camps (Whichaway or Echo), featuring heated pods, fine dining, and hosted experiences.

Up to 12 guests per departure for intimate guiding and low impact.

No specific fitness level is required; guides tailor activities to conditions and guests’ comfort.

Cape Town–Antarctica return flight, luxury camp accommodation, meals, guided activities, and internal flights required by the program (excludes international flights to Cape Town and personal insurance).

Travelers prioritizing penguin encounters and a shorter stay in Antarctica with a high level of comfort and guided access.

A 7–8 day expedition combining the Emperor Penguin colony with a flight to the Geographic South Pole, plus guided activities from camp.

Generally during December–January, aligning with the Antarctic summer window and South Pole operations.

Expect a full expedition day with internal Antarctic flight legs; exact routing is weather-dependent and managed by the operations team for safety.

Time on the polar plateau to visit the ceremonial/marker areas, photo opportunities, and a guided interpretation of polar history and science (weather permitting).

Yes—this itinerary includes a dedicated Emperor Penguin excursion in addition to the South Pole day.

Departures are limited to approximately 12 guests to preserve comfort and minimize impact.

At White Desert’s luxury camps, Whichaway or Echo, with heated pods, fine dining, and expert hosting.

Adventurers seeking the South Pole “bucket-list” moment with luxury logistics and the chance to see Emperor Penguins in one trip.

Cape Town–Antarctica return flight, camp stay, gourmet dining, guided activities, internal Antarctica flights to penguins and the South Pole, specialist gear while on continent.

Antarctic operations are weather-dependent; itineraries include buffer and flexibility to safely sequence flights and excursions.

A 7–8 day itinerary that lets you experience both camps—Whichaway and Echo—in a single journey, with visits to the South Pole and spectacular mountain landscapes.

On select dates late in the season with limited places (often one departure per season).

Travelers who want the full White Desert camp experience and the South Pole in one curated itinerary with unique flightseeing over surreal mountain ranges.

Group size is kept to about 12 guests for exclusivity and safety.

Return flights from Cape Town, stays at both camps, all hosted activities, internal flights (including to the South Pole), meals, and specialist on-continent gear.

Subject to availability, private charters and exclusive-use arrangements can be explored for families and small groups.

All trips fly from Cape Town, South Africa to Wolf’s Fang Runway in Queen Maud Land on a private jet (~5 hours, weather permitting).

A groomed blue-ice runway ~3,000 m x 60 m, operated seasonally in summer (Nov–Feb) as White Desert’s main Antarctic gateway.

Whichaway: serene pods, glass conservatories, sauna/wellness, gourmet dining. Echo: futurist, design-led pods; both are luxury, low-impact eco-camps.

Approximately 12 guests per departure across itineraries, maintaining exclusivity and safety.

No visa is required for Antarctica itself; standard entry rules for South Africa apply based on your nationality.

During the Antarctic summer (Nov–Feb), when daylight is continuous and conditions allow safe flight operations.

Expect very cold, dry conditions. White Desert supplies specialist outerwear on-continent; bring quality base layers and personal items—your advisor will provide a tailored packing list.

These are limited-capacity expeditions; plan 12–18 months ahead to secure preferred dates (some seasons sell out early).