Mountaineering in Antarctica

There are two quite distinct types of mountaineering activity offered on select Antarctic departures:

1. A half day’s ‘soft adventure’ activity in which you get to experience what it’s like to rope up, wear crampons and wield an ice axe. While this isn’t a training course, Antarctica offers the perfect conditions for novices and no prior experience is required. This is the most common type of Antarctic mountaineering activity
2. On rare occasions (perhaps only once or twice a season) experienced climbers have the chance to test their mettle on a much more technical multi-day challenge - such as a crossing of South Georgia’s mountain range in the footsteps of Shackleton. To join you will need to be able to prove you have previous experience at this kind of level

In terms of how the more common and universally accessible mountaineering activity works, under the guidance of a qualified guide you’ll spend 3-4 hours roped up, as part of a small group, getting well beyond the scope of most Antarctic visitors. Your efforts will be rewarded by dramatic vistas and the knowledge that you are the only people in that whole area.

The more specialist climbing equipment will be provided for you; including ropes, harnesses, helmets, ice axes and crampons, as well as snow-shoes when required. Along with the right clothing, all you need to bring is a sturdy pair of boots with a rigid sole for the crampons. Soft hiking boots and trainers aren’t appropriate.