Antarctica Expeditions

At 4,892m above sea level, Mount Vinson is one of the lowest of the Seven Summits, but it’s up there with Everest as one of the most challenging. The highest mountain in Antarctica never gets much snow, but is battered year-round by brutally strong polar winds. In an environment where summer temperatures hover at around minus 30, the added wind chill is some of the most severe on earth. In such an extreme environment, efficient operations and decisive leadership can make all the difference. That’s where Elite Exped comes in.

The Last Degree Ski Expedition is not for the faint of heart. It requires physical endurance, mental fortitude, and a deep passion for exploration. However, the rewards are immeasurable. As you reach the South Pole, you'll stand at the southernmost point on Earth, a testament to your determination and resilience.

Vinson Massif & The Last Degree

Elite Exped’s operational experience in the world’s most extreme environments is hard to match. Our leaders, Nimsdai, Mingma David, and Mingma Tenzi famously led the first team ever to climb K2, aka ‘the Savage Mountain’, in winter, in January 2021. Nimsdai summited all of the world’s 8,000m peaks in record time in 2019, and Mingma David became the youngest to reach all 14 that same year. Perhaps more importantly, when working together, the pair have a 100 percent safety record. Not a single member of any of their teams has lost so much as a fingertip to frostbite. 

Imagine standing atop the Vinson Massif, the most majestic peak on the frozen continent. Towering at 16,050 feet (4,892 meters) above sea level, this magnificent mountain offers a formidable challenge to even the most seasoned climbers. As you ascend, you'll be mesmerized by the breathtaking landscapes, vast glaciers, and pristine wilderness that surround you. It's an adventure that will test your limits and reward you with unparalleled views that only a lucky few have witnessed.

But that's not all. After conquering Vinson, you'll embark on an even more extraordinary feat – the Last Degree. This is the final, 60-nautical-mile leg to the South Pole, where you'll navigate through icy plains, face extreme weather conditions, and push your body to its limits. Trudging through the untouched, white wilderness of Antarctica, you'll truly understand the meaning of endurance and determination.

Our team of expert guides will be by your side throughout the journey, ensuring your safety and providing you with the knowledge and support you need. They have extensive experience in polar exploration and will help you navigate the treacherous terrain, making this adventure accessible even to those with limited climbing experience.

This once-in-a-lifetime experience will not only test your physical and mental strength but also provide you with an incredible sense of accomplishment. You'll become part of a select group of adventurers who have conquered Vinson Massif and stood at the geographic South Pole, marking an achievement that few can claim.

Remember, this opportunity is limited, so seize the moment and join us on this extraordinary expedition to the Vinson Massif and the Last Degree. Discover the uncharted beauty of Antarctica

Elite Exped’s Vinson Massif expedition takes 27 days from arrival in Punta Arenas, Chile, which includes days allowed for weather contingencies, meticulous checks of your equipment, and preparation. Regardless of where we operate, the Elite Exped team adopts a similar approach to expedition planning and logistics.