South Pole Last Degree

Questions

Get ready for the journey.

How do I reserve my trip?

Book your Expedition through our website or call +1-530-582-1246

What happens if there are delays?

If any trip must be delayed due to bad weather, cancelled or delayed transportation, sickness or any other situation for which Ice Axe Expeditions cannot make provisions, all costs incurred during such delays must be borne by trip members.

What is weather like?

The interior of Antarctica has a cold, dry, windy climate. Average mid-season temperatures at our base camp range from -12°F to 30°F (-24°C to -1°C ). On a sunny windless day it can feel quite warm but, when the wind blows, you will be glad of warm layers and a wind jacket. Temperatures can drop as low as -22°F (-30°C) in early November.

At the South Pole temperatures range from -13°F to -40°F (-25°C to -40°C) with windchill down to -50°F (-50°C).

What is the activity level?

Extremely strenuous trips include skiing and climbing expeditions in the most remote corners of Antarctica, where physiological altitude may exceed 11,000 feet (3350m) for many days in a row, and temperatures may drop below (–40°F / –40°C), with severe wind chill and storms. You will be active for 8-12 hours a day carrying or hauling heavy loads for many days in a row. You must have the physical ability to cover a minimum daily distance and the mental stamina to continue in extreme conditions when you are physically tired. Technical skill, a high level of strength and aerobic fitness, and commitment to a dedicated pre-trip training program are required.

How do I get to Punta Arenas?

Santiago Airport (SCL) is the main international gateway to Chile. International flights arrive at Terminal 2, where visitors complete customs and immigration procedures, and collect their checked baggage. From there they will walk to Terminal 1 and re-check their bags for their domestic flight to Punta Arenas. All visitors must claim their checked bags and clear customs in Santiago, even if the bags are checked through to Punta Arenas. Advise guests to complete a lost baggage form before leaving the Santiago airport, for any bags that have not arrived.

We highly encourage you to book flexible flights, as well travel/flights to and from Antarctica are weather dependent and subject to change or be delayed. You will be responsible for all costs incurred from delayed travel.

It is your responsibility to check for possible visa requirements to enter Chile.

What are the insurance requirements?

We require that you have at least $300,000 in medical evacuation insurance. Your insurance policy should cover hazardous sports and we recommend that your policy cover search and rescue. Since we cannot confirm each client’s policy individually, it is your responsibility to make sure your policy will cover you while you participate in your activities of choice on the expedition.

We also always encourage you to purchase TRIP CANCELLATION insurance in addition to the mandatory medical evacuation insurance, though it is not required.

What if I need to cancel?

A non-refundable cancellation fee of $10,000 USD applies to Last Degree Expeditions at all times. If cancellation is received more than one hundred eighty (180) days prior to the scheduled departure date, the deposit will be refunded, less a $500 administrative fee per person.

If cancellation is received between one hundred eighty (180) and ninety-five (95) days prior to departure, the entire deposit—equal to fifty percent (50%) of the total Expedition cost—shall be forfeited.

If cancellation is received ninety-four (94) days or fewer prior to departure, all deposits, tariffs, and amounts paid shall be forfeited, and any unpaid balance of the Expedition price shall become immediately due and payable.