Adventurous souls seeking the ultimate expedition will soon have a new destination on their radar: Ultima Oasis Camp, set to open in November 2024 in Antarctica. Located in the Schirmacher Oasis, on the edge of the Lazarev Ice Shelf, this luxury base camp offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of the most remote and pristine environments on Earth.
Entering the Antarctic Wilderness
Antarctica, often referred to as the last great wilderness, is a continent that holds numerous records—it’s the coldest, windiest, driest, and most elevated continent, with no native human population. The Ultima Oasis Camp is situated in an area that remains largely inaccessible, even to seasoned explorers. Venturing into this part of the world is not only unique but a privilege, as far fewer people have visited the “Deep Field” Antarctic sites than have summited Mount Everest.
The journey to Ultima Oasis Camp offers a faster and more direct route to Antarctica compared to traditional cruise ships. Departing from Cape Town, South Africa, guests will fly to Antarctica in just 5.5 hours aboard a cargo plane, sharing the flight with researchers from around the globe. Upon landing on the blue ice runways of Novo Air Base, guests will change into the polar gear provided by Ultima and begin their adventure.
Ultima Oasis Camp: Luxurious Accommodations in Extreme Conditions
Despite the extreme environment, Ultima Oasis Camp will provide a level of comfort that is rarely associated with such remote destinations. The camp consists of two Scandi-style designed accommodation units capable of hosting at least 14 guests. These units feature plush lounge areas with bay windows that offer spectacular views of the Oasis ice lake. The dining facility also boasts scenic views, and meals will be prepared by a dedicated camp chef, accompanied by a selection of carefully curated South African wines. For relaxation, guests can enjoy a traditional Banya (sauna), offering a touch of warmth in this icy wilderness.
Ultima Oasis Camp Luxurious Accommodations in Extreme Conditions
Ultima Oasis Camp Luxurious Accommodations in Extreme Conditions
Ultima Oasis Camp offers a range of tailor-made expeditions that allow guests to immerse themselves fully in the Antarctic experience. Options include a 7-day South Pole and Emperor Penguins Expedition, a 7-day Emperor Penguins Expedition, or a 24-hour Ultima Day. These expeditions are inclusive of flights, accommodation, meals, and guided excursions.
The camp’s location provides wildlife enthusiasts with potential sightings of Antarctic Skuas, Wilson’s Storm Petrels, and Snow Petrels, as well as th e possibilty of Adelie penguins wandering through the camp. Emperor Penguin colonies are just a short flight away, offering a rare chance to observe these majestic birds in their natural habitat.
For those interested in the continent’s dramatic landscapes, the expeditions include traverses around the iconic Drygalski Mountains, explorations of ice caves and tunnels, and hikes to the edge of the ever-moving ice sheet that stretches out towards the distant Antarctic ocean.
Exploration of ice caves tunnels and ice walls
Exploration of ice caves and tunnels – Photo by Christoph Höbenreich
Visiting Antarctica: A Short Season, A Lasting Impact
The season for visiting Ultima Oasis Camp is brief, from November to early February, aligning with Antarctica’s peak summer months. During ths time, the surrounding landscape transforms into fresh-water lakes and waterfalls, adding another layer of beauty to this stark environment.
“We are creating a corps of Antarctic advocates and ambassadors among our visitors, whilst practically assisting and cross-financing the precious practice of science. Our expeditions sit hand-in-glove with the honourable practice of expert science, a symbiosis we protect and treasure,” said Riaan Aucamp, CEO of Ultima Antarctic Expeditions and Ultima Antarctic Logistics.
Read More: Ultra-Luxury Mega Yacht Silver Endeavour Sets Sail
For those who embark on this journey, the Ultima Oasis Camp promises an experience of a lifetime—a chance to connect with one of the most remote and awe-inspiring places on Earth, all while enjoying the comforts of luxury in the heart of the Antarctic wilderness. ◼
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© This article was first published online in Aug 2024 – World Travel Magazine.
