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Mount Vinson lies in the aptly named Sentinel Range of the Ellsworth Mountains, deep in the interior of Antarctica. It was first summitted on 18 December 1966 and for many years did not see a second ascent due to the logistical challenges of access. In 1985 ANI put logistics in place to support a private expedition to Mount Vinson, opening the door to private travel in the interior of Antarctica. More than 25 years later, Mount Vinson is still one of our most popular experiences!

This trip is graded extremely strenuous. 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.

Although Vinson is not technically difficult, it is a serious mountain due to its elevation 16050 ft (4892m), latitude (79°S), cold –25F (-30C) and remoteness.

You should have experience with multi-day peaks, climbing at altitude >14,000 ft (4300m), movement on snow and ice and use of fixed ascenders, as well as knowledge of glacier travel and crevasse rescue procedures. You should expect to carry an expedition pack, containing personal and group equipment, food and fuel, throughout the climb.

All participants are asked to submit a resume of their mountaineering experience so that we can match you with compatible team members, tailor the climb to your skills and experience, and make suggestions for further training.

Your safety is very important to us and we work closely with you to make sure you are well prepared for your Antarctic Experience. All our activities are subject to detailed risk management and contingency planning that allow for the remote and harsh Antarctic environment. Our preparations include detailed emergency planning and equipment to deal with all eventualities.

Our team are known for their experience and expertise and we encourage a culture of safety by providing training and support. Our Union Glacier camp has a basic medical clinic staffed by a doctor and medic who specialize in emergency and remote medicine. We keep a 24-hour watch during our operating season and are ready to respond - day or night - in case of emergency.

We maintain other camp facilities and pre-placed fuel caches in the interior of Antarctica to support our flights. Established procedures and communication protocols and continued investment in equipment and technology all contribute to safe and enjoyable Experiences.

Expect to carry an expedition pack weighing up to 55 lb (25kg) with personal and group equipment, food and fuel. We provide detailed clothing and equipment lists for all of our experiences. If you still have questions after reading our equipment lists and overview just drop us a line and we will be more than happy to help.

Union Glacier Camp
The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming at our main Antarctic camp at Union Glacier. You’ll find roomy, double occupancy sleeping tents; a spacious dining hall; fresh delicious meals; and a spectacular setting. You’ll be surprised how comfortable Antarctica can be! Our full-service camp is designed for Antarctic conditions and with best environmental practices in mind. It operates during the Antarctic summer (November through January) and is dismantled at the end of each season.

Vinson Base Camp
Vinson climbers will continue on to our cozy Vinson Base Camp on the Branscomb Glacier. Fresh-cooked meals are served in a heated dining tent, where you can also relax and enjoy conversation or a game of cards. You sleep in mountaineering tents nearby.

Field Camps
Our Emperor Penguin, South Pole, ski expedition, and other field camps are more basic. Equipment must be lightweight and portable, yet still strong enough to withstand Antarctic conditions. We sleep in mountaineering-style tents and eat a combination of fresh-frozen meals, prepared by our chefs at Union Glacier; and de-hydrated meals.
 

Make sure you have a insurance that covers this trip. If you dont have that, we reccomend www.ihi.dk for Scandinavian people.