Exclusive access to two distinct emperor penguin colonies, each set against Antarctica's most dramatic mountain backdrops. A photographer's and wildlife enthusiast's dream.
The emperor penguin is the largest of all penguin species, the deepest-diving hunter among birds, and the only bird on Earth that breeds through the depths of the Antarctic winter — with the male alone nurturing a single egg through months of total darkness. This expedition offers something truly rare: the chance to witness two separate colonies during the same journey.
We reach each colony aboard ski-equipped aircraft carrying only a handful of guests at a time, landing directly on the ice shelf for visits of several hours. Expert guides and ornithologists position the group carefully, keeping disturbance to a minimum while giving you a front-row seat to the earliest, noisiest, most delightful days of parenthood in the animal kingdom.
As a finale, a third flight carries you into the Drygalski Mountains — home to the razor-sharp granite spires of Ulvetanna and Holtanna — landscapes so remote and raw that past guests have struggled to find the words for them. Between flights, daily excursions from Polar Camp take you to nearby ice walls and formations, out over the edge of the continental ice shelf, and on quiet evening strolls through the Schirmacher Oasis.
Based on double occupancy · Terms apply
Morning briefing. Afternoon flight to Antarctica (6 hours). Land on blue-ice runway. Transfer to Polar Camp. Welcome dinner.
Rest and gear preparation. Safety briefing with your expedition team. An easy stroll through the nearby Schirmacher Oasis as the midnight sun lingers over the ice shelf.
Flight by ski-equipped aircraft to the first emperor penguin colony, landing directly on the ice shelf. Guided observation following IAATO protocols. Spend hours watching colony life, courtship, and chick feeding.
A scenic multi-stop flight into the Drygalski Mountains, home to the dramatic granite spires of Ulvetanna and Holtanna. Optional guided walk on a glacier tongue. Photography workshop.
Flight to the second colony — a different environment, often with dramatic mountain backdrop. Extended observation time.
Return to your preferred colony for additional photography, or explore the ice walls and formations closer to camp.
Last chance for excursions. Farewell dinner at Polar Camp, with fine wines and views over the nearby ice shelf.
Morning flight back to Cape Town. Arrive late afternoon.
Throughout this expedition, you'll overnight at Polar Camp — our warm, timber-cabin base tucked into a sheltered valley on the edge of the Antarctic mainland. Between flights, rest, refuel on gourmet meals and fine wines, and take in the surrounding mountains, lakes, snow and ice that make this one of the most extraordinary settings on the continent.
More About Polar Camp →
Each colony has unique characteristics — different behaviors, settings, and lighting conditions. Two visits give you a fuller understanding of emperor penguin life.
We follow strict IAATO guidelines, maintaining respectful distances. Our guides position you for optimal viewing without disturbing the colony.
A telephoto lens (200-400mm) is ideal for penguin photography. Our guides offer photography tips throughout the journey.
Not particularly. You'll be walking on snow and ice, but no technical skills required. Suitable for most fitness levels.
Antarctica isn't owned by any nation, so no visa is required for the continent itself. You may need a multiple-entry visa for South Africa, since you'll transit through Cape Town both ways.
At least 48 hours before your scheduled departure, on flexible tickets that can be changed without heavy penalty — this gives us room to adjust for Antarctic weather. We also recommend booking your onward flight at least two days after your expected return.
Not at all. Unlike the explorers of a century ago, our guests simply need to be healthy enough to fly. The expedition is open to all who meet that bar.
We accept guests aged 12 and above when accompanied by a parent or guardian. Teenagers have happily joined several expeditions.
Two colonies, endless memories. Speak with a polar specialist to reserve your place.
Enquire About This Expedition →Reserve Your Expedition
With only 10 guests per departure, this exclusive expedition fills quickly. Speak with a polar specialist to secure your place.
Cape Town | +27 21 555 0198 | info@antillaantarctic.com