Backcountry Skiing in Antarctica: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You

Antarctica was the world’s last discovered and is its least populated, polluted and explored continent. Heading here for a backcountry skiing adventure is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Heading to Mount Vinson, either to ski up the peak or simply enjoy some great powder on its slopes, is the most popular option. Climbing the peak takes between 10 days and two weeks. While the climbing itself is not technically difficult, it is made far more difficult by the harsh conditions and logistical difficulties of transporting people and gear.

Away from summiting the continent’s highest peak, the continent boasts many other great ski touring options as well, most of which are located on the Antarctic Peninsula, which juts out of the continent toward the tip of South America. It is here that the continent’s tallest mountains are found along with the best ski spots.

Many ski tourers opt to add sailing and kayaking to their itinerary in the summer. Since the skies never darken, there certainly is plenty of time to squeeze all of these activities in.

Stunning scenery

Antarctica is a barren but incredibly beautiful place. Ninety eight percent of its surface area is covered in ice and the continent has no plant life, which makes Antarctica seem like an alien world. Heading out into the remote reaches of its mountainous peninsulas and spectacular bays is the best way to appreciate its immense and other-worldly beauty.

Ski one of the Seven Summits

Rising to 4,898 meters in elevation, Mount Vinson is the highest peak in Antarctica and one of the world’s Seven Summits. Conquering the peak is a sustained challenge, but well worth it for its stunning natural beauty and panoramic views. It is also easily done with a pair of backcountry skis. Racing back down the mountain's flank afterwards is also a blast.

Ski and sail at the bottom of the world

Since it is practically impossible to stay on the continent itself (surprise, no hotels or mountain huts here) and well worth visiting for more than a single day, sailing and skiing trips to Antarctica are the most popular options. Enjoy days out on different parts of Antarctica's main peninsula before retiring to the comfort of a specialised sailboat in the evening. There is nothing like sitting in the sauna at the bottom of the world.

During the summer months, which is the only time when it is possible to visit Antarctica for outdoor activities, average daily temperatures are generally between -20°C and -5°C. Snowstorms are also not uncommon during the summer

Most trips to Antarctica will begin with a flight into Presidente Carlos Ibáñez del Campo International Airport (PUQ) in Punta Arenas, Chile. From here guides will arrange transport via seaplane to Antarctica.

Most trips are priced in US dollars or Euros.

December to February