Camp in Antarctica for a once-in-a-lifetime experience alongside emperor penguins. This exclusive expedition offers unmatched access to one of the world’s most breathtaking environments, where you can observe Antarctica’s most iconic bird.
Your adventure begins at Union Glacier, where you prepare for your extraordinary stay on the sea ice. From there, a scenic flight takes you to Gould Bay, where your remote camp awaits just a short distance from thousands of emperor penguins. With 24-hour daylight, you have the freedom to explore at your own pace, taking in the awe-inspiring landscape and the incredible sights and sounds of the colony.
Each day brings remarkable opportunities to watch emperor penguins and witness the daily lives of these majestic birds. See devoted parents tend to their fluffy chicks, hear the soft calls that echo across the ice, and marvel at their resilience in the harsh Antarctic conditions.
Both camps offer a surprisingly comfortable base in this extreme and remote setting. Designed for both warmth and practicality, the camps provide a haven where you can rest, enjoy nourishing meals, and reflect on the unforgettable moments of the day. The endless daylight ensures you have ample time to take advantage of the best conditions for photography, capturing the extraordinary interactions of the penguins and the stark beauty of the frozen landscape.
To camp in this remote corner of the world is a rare privilege—few have the chance to step onto the sea ice and experience the magic of Antarctica in such an immersive way. This is one of, if not the most exclusive wildlife experience in Antarctica.
Arrive in Punta Arenas and spend some time exploring this interesting city at your own pace.
Accommodation: Hotel Cabo de Hornos, 2-nights
Today, you fly to Antarctica. On arrival at Union Glacier, climb aboard one of the specially-adapted vans for the 8-kilometre shuttle to the main camp. The friendly team welcome you with a tour of the camp before showing you to your tent.
Your time at Union Glacier is designed to be flexible so you can make the most of the ever-changing Antarctic conditions. Each morning, you meet with your guide to discuss the day’s itinerary, ensuring that activities align with the weather and the group’s interests.
There are a variety of excursions to choose from, including ice climbing, cross-country skiing, hiking routes, and excursions to spectacular icefalls and lookout points.
Accommodation: Union Glacier Camp, 3-nights
As soon as weather conditions allow, you fly to the penguin colony (flight time approximately four hours). This may be on day five or day six, depending on weather conditions.
Upon arrival, the plane lands on sea ice near the camp, located 2–3 kilometres from the colony. Over the next few days, immerse yourself in a truly rare and extraordinary experience - living among emperor penguins in one of the most remote places on Earth.
You’ll have time to watch the penguin's natural behaviours - parents carefully tending to their chicks, adults gathering in huddles against the wind, or clumsy juveniles finding their feet on the ice. With 24-hour daylight, you can adapt your schedule to the best conditions for photography and observation.
Accommodation: Gould Bay Emperor Penguin Camp, 2-nights
When weather and runway conditions permit, your aircraft will arrive at Union Glacier to transport you back to Chile.
Accommodation: Hotel Cabo de Hornos, 1-night
Please note: Itinerary subject to change due to weather and flight conditions. We recommend flexible travel plans and allowing extra time after your return from Antarctica.
In the heart of the Ellsworth Mountains is Union Glacier, a breathtaking hub for polar exploration. This remote wilderness, with its vast icefields and 24-hour daylight, serves as a gateway to scientific research and adventure, offering a rare glimpse into the untouched beauty of The Great White Continent. Find Out More about {acc:title}
Gould Bay, on the edge of the Weddell Sea, is a remote Antarctic wilderness where emperor penguins breed on the sea ice. This untouched expanse offers a rare glimpse into one of nature’s most extreme and captivating ecosystems, where harsh conditions and incredible wildlife define the landscape. Find Out More about {acc:title}
Nestled on the frozen expanse of the Weddell Sea, Gould Bay Emperor Penguin Camp offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe one of the planet’s most remarkable wildlife spectacles. This seasonal field camp provides a remote yet comfortable base for an immersive experience with emperor penguins. Find Out More about Gould Bay Emperor Penguin Camp
Union Glacier Camp is a full-service expedition camp set amidst the breathtaking southern Ellsworth Mountains. Open November to January, this seasonal camp offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the vast Antarctic wilderness and embark on guided wildlife expeditions to see emperor penguins. Find Out More about Union Glacier Camp
British Travel Awards
Awarded Silver in Favourite Tour Operator for Nature & Wildlife 2024 & 2025
Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards
Awarded Bronze in Best Travel Company for Wildlife & Nature Holidays 2024
