90° South
Stand where every direction is north and visit the Geographic South Pole marker.
POLAR TRAVEL TRIBEANTARCTIC INTERIOR AIR EXPEDITION
Fly to the Geographic South Pole
Fly from Punta Arenas to Union Glacier, then continue by ski aircraft to the Geographic South Pole when weather and runway conditions allow.
About 6 days Typical durationNovember–January Travel seasonPunta Arenas Start and finish
Trip Overview
- Duration
- About 6 days
- Season
- November–January
- Voyage style
- Specialist air expedition
This rare aviation journey reaches the heart of the Antarctic continent without a long overland traverse. Union Glacier is the operational base, while the flight to 90° South is scheduled only when conditions align across the entire route.
The itinerary is deliberately flexible. Guests should expect waiting time, changing flight plans and a return date governed by Antarctic operations rather than a fixed clock.
Why This Route
Union Glacier Camp
Experience a remote Antarctic interior base beneath the Ellsworth Mountains.
Polar Aviation
Travel by intercontinental aircraft and ski-equipped plane over the high polar plateau.
Blue-Ice Runway
Land on a naturally formed Antarctic blue-ice runway when conditions permit.
Route Map
Punta Arenas → Union Glacier → Geographic South Pole → Union Glacier → Punta Arenas
The map shows the main sailing direction. Actual landing sites are selected by the captain and expedition team according to weather, sea ice and safety conditions.
DAY BY DAY
Day by Day
A representative itinerary. The order of landings and cruising is adapted to local conditions.
Before departure
Prepare in Punta Arenas
Complete equipment checks, safety briefings and baggage weighing in southern Chile, and meet the team responsible for the Antarctic flights. Arrive early and leave a generous buffer after the expedition because weather windows can open or close at short notice.
Day 1
Fly to Union Glacier
When weather and runway conditions allow, board the intercontinental flight across the Drake Passage and western Antarctic Peninsula. Land on Union Glacier’s blue-ice runway and transfer to camp for an operational briefing.
Days 2–5
Explore Union Glacier and Await the Window
While the team monitors the South Pole flight window, explore the Union Glacier area with guided walks, viewpoints, introductory skiing or camp lectures. Learn how the camp operates in one of the world’s most isolated environments and watch changing light move across the Ellsworth Mountains. The programme changes with weather and operational priorities, and guests must be ready to depart for 90° South whenever a safe opportunity opens.
Flexible flying day
Fly to 90° South
When the route and South Pole weather are suitable, fly by ski aircraft across the Antarctic plateau. Visit the Geographic South Pole marker and nearby ceremonial area; time on the ground depends on the day’s flight conditions.
Day 6 or later
Return to Chile
After returning to Union Glacier, wait for the next safe intercontinental flight to Punta Arenas. This is an aviation visit rather than a long-distance ski expedition, but cold, altitude and schedule flexibility remain essential.
PLANNING NOTES
Plan This Journey
- Departure
- Punta Arenas, Chile
- Arrival
- Punta Arenas, Chile
Who This Journey Suits
- Travellers whose goal is the Geographic South Pole
- Guests wanting an Antarctic interior experience without a long ski traverse
What You May See
- This journey does not focus on wildlife
- Union Glacier
- Ellsworth Mountains
- Antarctic plateau
- Geographic South Pole
Physical Activity & Sea Conditions
- Light to moderate, with walking on uneven snow and ice in severe cold and at altitude.
- There is no Drake Passage sailing, but every Antarctic flight depends on weather, visibility, wind and runway conditions.
Before You Book
- The South Pole flight follows a flexible weather window
- International flights and onward travel require a generous buffer
- Medical clearance and specialist cold-weather clothing may be required
WHAT TO EXPECT
Inclusions and Exclusions
What Is Usually Included
- Shipboard accommodation and meals
- Scheduled landings and Zodiac cruising
- Expedition team lectures and guiding
- Loan of expedition boots on many ships
What Is Usually Not Included
- International and domestic flights
- Travel insurance and medical costs
- Optional adventure activities
- Gratuities and personal expenses
Important
- Final inclusions vary by operator and departure
- Activities depend on weather and ice
- Ask us to compare the exact terms before booking
PLAN THIS JOURNEY
Ready to stand at 90° South?
Tell us your preferred travel window, cabin style and priorities. We will help you compare suitable departures and expedition ships.