The Last Continent: Antarctica Basecamp Expedition
Highlights
#CoreMemories
Why we love this experience
Last Continent for you to conquer
Once in a lifetime experience for the ultimate bucketlist destination
Ultimate Wild Expedition
Camp under polar skies, kayak among icebergs, and snowshoe pristine Antarctic terrain — all in one voyage.
Ice, Wildlife & Landscape Immersion
Witness penguin colonies, seals, whales and dramatic glacial landscapes up close in one of the planet’s most remote regions.
Experience Antarctica like few ever do: from comfortable expedition vessel to True Basecamp exploration on ice. Over 13 days, cross the legendary Drake Passage, navigate iceberg-strewn channels, and step ashore to hike, snowshoe, kayak, mountaineer, camp under the Southern skies, and take part in a guided photo workshop — all included in the voyage.
This is an expedition—not a cruise. Every day is flexible and planned around ice, weather, and wildlife conditions, giving you the most authentic Antarctic experience possible.
PLEASE NOTE: All itineraries are for guidance only. Programs may vary depending on ice, weather, and wildlife conditions. Landings are subject to site availabilities, permissions, and environmental concerns per IAATO regulations. Official sailing plans and landing slots are scheduled with IAATO prior to the start of the season, but the expedition leader determines the final plan. Flexibility is paramount for expedition cruises. The average cruising speed for our vessel is 10.5 knots.
View full itineraryWhat's included
All meals throughout the voyage, including snacks and hot drinksAll meals throughout the voyage, including ..
Use of rubber boots and snowshoes (no extra charge)Use of rubber boots and snowshoes (no extra..
Luggage transfer and group transfer post-disembarkationLuggage transfer and group transfer post-di..
12 nights on Expedition voyage aboard Ortelius (ice-strengthened ship)12 nights on Expedition voyage aboard Ortel..
Expert expedition staff and lecturesExpert expedition staff and lectures
All planned shore excursions and Zodiac operations Photo workshop and daily activity gui..All planned shore excursions and Zodiac ope..
Our Group Leaders are passionate travellers just like you. They share the experience aut..Our Group Leaders are passionate travellers..
Flights not included. By joining you will receive our recommended routes.Flights not included. By joining you will r..
Itinerary
Accommodation highlights
Ortelius
Quadruple Porthole
Dining area
Additional Information
Arrival information
Fly to Ushuaia (USH); a group transfer will take you from Ushuaia city or the airport to the expedition vessel on embarkation day. Exact meeting time and transfer details will be shared closer to departure.
Pick up
Ushuaia – Malvinas Argentinas International Airport (USH)
Arrive and check in
Accommodation
Departure information
After morning disembarkation in Ushuaia, a group transfer will return you to Ushuaia city or Ushuaia – Malvinas Argentinas International Airport (USH). Onward flights are recommended after 12:00 PM.
Depart
Accommodation
Drop off
Ushuaia – Malvinas Argentinas International Airport (USH)
Other requirements
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory, including coverage for evacuation, medical treatment, and polar regions. You must be willing to follow strict environmental and safety guidelines set by the expedition team.
About the weather
Antarctica is visited during the austral summer (November–March), when conditions are at their most accessible.
Temperatures: approx. -5°C to +5°C
Weather is highly variable — expect snow, wind, sun, and rapid changes in a single day
Wind chill can make it feel significantly colder
Sea conditions during the Drake Passage can range from calm to rough
Layering, waterproof outerwear, and proper cold-weather preparation are essential.
How does accommodation & rooming work?
By default, solo travelers are matched with same-gender roommates. If you're traveling with friends, you can choose to room together. Private rooms are sometimes available at an additional fee at checkout.
Trip confirmation & minimum participants
Most trips require a minimum of 4 and cap at 20 participants. Booking early helps the trip reach confirmation faster — and you'll enjoy our early bird discount.
Is flight included?
Flights are not included, giving you flexibility to book your own. We recommend booking after your trip is confirmed. Once you've booked, we'll send you a detailed trip pamphlet with recommended flight options and more details about your trip.
Cancellation & refund policy
Cancel before the deadline shown at checkout and receive a full refund in credits. If we cancel the trip due to insufficient participants, you'll receive a full cash refund.
Physical level
This is an active expedition involving snowshoeing, hiking on uneven icy terrain, kayaking, zodiac landings, and optional camping on the Antarctic continent. Participants should be comfortable with cold conditions, frequent embarkation/disembarkation from zodiacs, and physical activity lasting several hours a day. No technical mountaineering experience is required, but good overall fitness, balance, and mobility are essential.
Share this trip
Why choose to travel with us?
Guides & leaders you can trust
Our guides and leaders are carefully selected and trained to deliver a safe and unforgettable Sotravel adventure.
Can't do alone adventures
We put together adventures that are best experienced with a group of like-minded individuals.
Just show up and enjoy yourself
Our team has done the heavy lifting on our end so all you have to do is show up for your adventure!
Have questions?
Contact us on Telegram to chat with us! If you are looking for an instant reply, try searching for a quick answer here.