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Antarctica 

Into The White Desert

The Final Frontier

Antarctica - The White Continent, represents the aspirational, once-in-a-lifetime odyssey on the planet. Shaped by elemental forces, designed in all its intricate beauty by Mother Earth. The world's largest desert epitomizes the zenith of exploration, rare, dignified, and extraordinary for the few who can.

Welcome to the White Desert

Antarctica White Desert

Nature & Wildlife

Distant Frontiers

Aspirational

Price On Request

When To Go?

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Highlights

Accommodations

With only 6 suites per camp in either Whichaway, Echo and Explorer, every journey is high-touch and tailored to each guest. Indulge in meals prepared by gourmet chefs and wines crafted especially for our Antarctic climate. Though slightly different in design, each camp features heated pods, fresh running water, and uninterrupted views of the otherworldly landscape from your bed.

Experiences

Discover Antarctica like few ever will with White Desert’s four signature experiences: witness Emperor Penguin chicks taking their first steps, journey to the southernmost point on Earth at the South Pole, or embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure in just 24 hours. For those seeking the ultimate immersion, combine Echo and Whichaway Camps — two distinct landscapes and two remarkable camp styles, culminating in one unforgettable journey. Each experience blends refined comfort, expert guidance and the unparalleled access to the continent.

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Travel to the

Last Continent

 

White Desert operates for just 11 weeks a year - Antarctic summer - when the conditions are most hospitable. 

In a feat of engineering, your journey to the 7th continent is aboard a "heavy" - an Airbus A340 plane commissioned by White Desert. This plane transport guests, much-needed supplies and cargo. 

During the flight, you'll soar above thousands of icebergs and over the ice shelf, landing in 24 hours of continuous sun, where time is just a concept. 

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Daily Activities

 

You will experience an entire range of activities on ice, from ice climbing to casual glacier treks and walks across frozen ice waves, as well as the latest addition to Whichaway Camp, the Wellness Dome. Flexibility is key on a journey here, including the number of nights per camp, as the weather plays a role in determining the flight schedule. 

Itineraries

Best of Both Worlds

Experience both the main camps — Whichaway and Echo — on the longest itinerary, which includes the South Pole and the incredible Blue Rivers.

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South Pole & Emperor Penguins

The most popular itinerary, which includes a journey to the South Pole — visited by fewer than 500 people each year — and an Emperor Penguin colony.

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Wines, Cape & the Beat

Welcome to this corner of the world, a breathtaking dialogue between the dramatic and the serene, where the "Mother City" of Cape Town serves as a cosmopolitan gateway anchored by the flat-topped silhouette of Table Mountain. This journey unfurls along the Cape Peninsula, a rugged stretch of coastline where the legendary Chapman’s Peak Drive carves into sea-lashed cliffs, leading to the windswept meeting of oceans at Cape Point and the charming, penguin-dotted shores of Boulders Beach. The adventure then softens into the Cape Winelands, where the jagged peaks of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek cradle emerald valleys and historic Cape Dutch estates. Here, the air is thick with the scent of aging oak and blooming fynbos, inviting you to slow down and savor world-class vintages and farm-to-table feasts amidst landscapes that feel like a living oil painting.

Itinerary

A seamless and thoughtful Pre & Post White Desert Antarctica Discovery

of Cape Town, Cape Winelands & the Cape Peninsula

DAY 1: Arrive Cape Town

DAY 1
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On arrival at Cape Town International Airport, you will be transferred to Cape Grace, a Fairmont Managed Hotel, standing at the heart of the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront with enviable rooms gazing out onto the harbor or majestic silhouette of Table Mountain. Take time to unwind and recharge from jetlag. 

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DAY 2: Cape Town / Antarctica - The White Desert

DAY 2
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Early this morning, arise as you return to Cape Town International Airport for your charter flight journey to Antarctica where a week of unforgettable adventures await. 

Arrow to return to The White Desert

DAY 9: Antarctica - The White Desert / Cape Town / Cape Winelands

DAY 9
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Fast forward to Day 9 of your White Desert Antarctica program, you will embark on your 5.5 hours charter flight to Cape Town where on arrival, an hour's drive takes us to the tranquil environments of Delaire Graff, in the Cape Winelands, perched on the slopes of the magnificent Stellenbosch mountains, offering sweeping views across the estate’s vineyards. Each lodge has its own private heated plunge pool, an idyllic setting for relaxation and its décor skillfully blends indigenous influences and contemporary design, complemented by works of South African artists.

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DAY 10: Cape Winelands

DAY 10
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Rejuvenated, we indulge a full day to in the Cape Winelands.  The estates visited will vary according to your preferences, but the tour includes the major wine producing areas and visits some beautiful wine estates for tastings of high-quality vintages. Nestled in a valley where the French Huguenots settled in 1688, Franschhoek is a delight for antique lovers and gastronomes (the town boasts some world-famous eateries). South Africa’s second-oldest town, Stellenbosch provides another glimpse of classic17th and 18th Century Cape style, with a chance to browse quaint Dorp Street, visit the museum or explore the many galleries and shops of this university town. 

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DAY 11: Cape Winelands / Cape Peninsula

DAY 11
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Today, we depart the Cape Winelands for a scenic drive circumnavigating False Bay where we make a brief stop in the pleasant town of Muizenberg, endeared for its vibrant surfing lifestyle and bohemian atmosphere, adorned with cafes and the postcard-worthy beach huts. Soon, we arrive at the quaint seaside town of Kalk Bay dining at the shore-hugging Harbour House Restaurant where waves crash against windows and eals frolicking among the colorful fishing boats, while you dine on sumptuous seafood.

Thereafter, we continue along the coast to Simon's Town, steeped in heritage as we enjoy an insightful walk through the picturesque town and learning about the occupation of the Dutch East India Company and British colonial period and the trials and tribulations of the Cape Malay people. Soon, we arrive at the world-famous Boulders Beach - home to the indigenous and endangered African Penguins. Take a stroll on the boardwalks getting up close to the colony and enjoy time to observe its interesting behavior. From here, a short walk leads us to the Tintswalo Boulders where we will spend the evening above the beach where the penguins reside. 

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DAY 12: Cape Peninsula / Cape Town

DAY 12
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Awake this morning to the chatter of the African Penguins and after a leisurely breakfast, we continue our exploration of the Cape Peninsula venturing south to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve & Cape Point. With dramatic cliffs and breathtaking vistas, we will take time to marvel the spectacular views at the southernmost point of the African continent. 

Thereafter, continue our journey in the direction towards Cape Town on a bewitching drive on the Chapman's Peak, a 9km stretch of vertical face cliffs against the Atlantic Ocean, regarded as one of the world's most scenic drives. Leading us to Hout Bay, we will stop for lunch, enjoying time at leisure to soak in the maritime atmosphere and a chance to visit the local market. 

Our day continues north eventually returning to Cape Town where we will once again, arrive to Cape Grace, a Fairmont Managed Hotel

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DAY 13: Cape Town

DAY 13
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Enjoy a day at leisure in the vibrant atmosphere of the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. Alternatively, take the aerial cableway to the top of the iconic Table Mountain for the most majestic views of the city. Worth a visit as well is the colorful Bo Kaap District where we have the chance to learn about the heritage of the vibrant Cape Malay people. 

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DAY 14: Departure Cape Town

DAY 14
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Today, we will transfer to Cape Town International Airport for your flight departure home or alternatively, continue your journey and discovery of South Africa and beyond. 

Featured Hotels

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Cape Grace, a Fairmont Managed Hotel

Tucked away between Cape Town's lively V&A Waterfront and a peaceful yacht marina, this hotel is a perfect mix of luxury and nature's beauty. From the cosy reception lounge to the spacious rooms, the vibe is elegant yet relaxed, blending modern style with tales of the Cape's history through unique furnishings. Dive into tailor-made experiences, like tasty menus, spa treats, and indulgent afternoon teas, all crafted to make your stay as charming as the city itself.

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Privileges

Complimentary Breakfast
Priority Upgrade at check in*
Early check in/late check out*

Delaire Graff

Much like polishing a diamond to reveal its brilliance, jeweller Laurence Graff has transformed an extraordinary natural setting into a world-class hotel. The estate is a stunning winery with epic mountain and valley views, but this place is not just about wine – it's a luxury escape with amazing art, delicious food and brilliant service. Relax at the spa, dine at two excellent restaurants, and maybe even shop at the world’s smallest Graff Diamonds store.

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Privileges

Complimentary Breakfast
Priority Upgrade at check in*
Early check in/late check out*

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Explorer Class

1

Bradshaw

2

Dampier

3

Durack

4

Parker King

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Located on the upper deck, Explorer Class staterooms feature a walk-around king size bed (that can be converted to singles) and a twin basin ensuite. Cabin size is 14 square metres (150 square feet). Other features include large panoramic windows and desk space. 

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