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Mount Vinson

An adventure at worlds’ end. In one of the coldest, most remote and most impressive regions, only few have ever ventured to.

Mount Vinson, with its 4892m, is considered the highest peak of its continent, the Antarctica. But its difficulty is not credited to its altitude, but to the extreme conditions that reign at this peak of the Seven Summits. Its location in the arctic ice of the Sentinel range lies only 1200 km from the most southern point of our earth. Also the mountaineering history of this Summit shows its resistance to be conquered: After its first ascent in 1966, lots of expeditions failed due to its remote location and the rough environment, which made the Mt. Vinson a difficult challenge for mountaineers.

Even today, with our modern and improved equipment and support from our experienced UIAGM mountain guides, Mt. Vinson remains what it always was – a challenge for man and equipment alike. Temperatures under -30°C, heavy storms and peculiarities of the standard route called “Branscomb Shoulder”, like ice climbing, steep snow faces with up to 45° inclinations and an exposed high plateau demand knowledge, fitness and mental strength from those who dare to climb this mountain.

But those who prevail will get rewarded with the pride and knowledge to be amongst the few mountaineers who conquered this special summit. But also the incomparable scenery with its wide glaciers, ice-covered peaks and snow as far as the eye can see will leave a long lasting impression and memory of this remote but incredibly important region of our planet.

Adventure Factor brave
Experience / Emotion mindblowing
Fitness / Struggle suffer
Risk low objective hazards
Comfort expedition style

Highlights:

  • Highest peak oft he Antarctica
  • Spectacular scenery and landscape
  • 12 days on arctic ice
  • Support from exclusive UIAGM mountain guides

Trip dates:

Booking code:-
Minimum members:-
Price per person: 0

The following schedule is planned:

-2nd - 3rd day: Arrival in Chile and the Basecamp

Day -2: Arrival at Punta Arenas Airport, Chile (at least 2 days before the departure to the Antarctica, to make up for possible delays). Transfer to the individually booked accommodation.

Day -1: Pick up of the luggage (max. 25 kg) for the Antarctica, last organizational steps, get-together with the other group members and briefing about the upcoming procedures.

Day 1: 4,5 h flight to the Antarctica, landing at the ice-runway of the Union Glacier, first steps on arctic ice followed by transport to the Main Camp. If the weather conditions are favourable, flight in the ski plane to Mt. Vinson Base Camp. Otherwise we will stay in the Camp at Union Glacier and take the flight on the next day.

Days 2-3: Acclimatization days at Vinson Base Camp at the Branscomb Glacier with short acclimatization hikes, preparation for the ascent, packing of luggage, equipment, food and oil. The upcoming ascent will take place on the standard route (Branscom Shoulder) and will take 5-9 days depending on the weather situation.

4th - 9th day: Summit ascent Mt. Vinson

Days 4-5: The time has come. The group is starting from Vinson Base Camp to “Low Camp” at 2.750 m. Usually, the luggage will be transported with backpacks and sleighs. After 4-6 hours, arrival at the Camp which is equipped with big communal tents and sleeping tents. At the next day we do a little excursion to the view point and a little training at the starting point of the fixed ropes.

Day 6: Ascent under good weather conditions to the High Camp at 3.773 m. The climbing takes 4-5 h (+ appr. 1,5 h trekking to the camp) and is supported by fixed ropes at the steepest slopes with an inclination of up to 45°. All luggage will be carried in the backpacks. The High Camp itself is furnished a little more modest than the spacious Base Camp. The mountain guides will cook simple menus which can be consumed in the tent or in good weather conditions directly at the glacier.

Days 7-8: Depending on the weather forecast, there will be another acclimatization day at the High Camp. After that we will start the summit attempt. 1.119 m to the summit wait to be conquered. The route leads through the Vinson Summit Valley, over a steep and icy but short slope and the spectacular rocky ridge to the top. Here, the Antarctica lies at our feet: the mountains Mt. Garnder, Tyree, Epperly and Shinn dominate the scenery, surrounded by more impressive Summits in the white landscape. After a short photo-stop we will begin with the descent and arrive at the High Camp after approximately 9-12 hours.

Day 9: Today we begin our descent on the Branscom Glacier to the Base Camp. Usually, this section can be done within one day. After our arrival at the Camp, we will celebrate our victory with a hearty joint dinner.

10th - 12th day: Return trip to Chile

Days 10-11: The weather is determines when we can return to the Camp at Union Glacier. Normally there should be 1-2 days left to explore the picturesque glacier – with the amenities of a hot shower afterwards.

Day 12: If the conditions allow it, today is our departure day to Chile, followed by transfer to the individually booked hotels and the end of our expedition.

 Flight home: We recommend you to book your return flight for a week after we returned from the Antarctica so we have a buffer for possible delays, which are common with expeditions to the Antarctica. In case you should have any extra time in Punta Arenas, the Team will gladly provide you with information about excursions and sightseeing in the area. At departure day: transfer to the airport and individual flight home.

check_circle_outline  What is Included:

  • All organisation for the expedition
  • All transfers according to the program
  • Flight from Punta Arenas (Chile) to/from the Antarctica with 25 kg free baggage allowance
  • Flight to/from Union Glacier to Vinson Base Camp
  • Experienced UIAGM mountain and ski guides
  • Safety- and process-organization-meeting before departing from Punta Arenas
  • Tent-housing in the Antarctica
  • All meals in the Antarctica
  • Camp- and group-equipment
  • Joint dinner to celebrate the successful climb and ascent-certificate

 

highlight_off  What is not included:

  • International flight to/from Punta Arenas (LAN recommended, we will gladly make you an offer)
  • Personal insurance
  • Personal equipment and clothing (we gladly help to organize adequate polar-clothing, shoes, sleeping bags, etc. under special rates from our sponsoring partners )
  • Accommodation and meals in Punta Arenas
  • Any possible additional flights within the Antarctica
  • Costs for excess baggage
  • Fees for satellite phone
  • Tips
  • All personal expenses
  • All costs of services that may arise due to unforeseeable occurrences beyond our control. E.g. natural disasters, flight cancellation, strike, increase of fees, hotel rates or costs of transport, etc.
  • All not specifically mentioned included services

 

info  General

An expedition to high altitudes still presents an enormous challenge despite modern equipment and tactics. Besides technical and fitness requirements, the high altitude still poses the largest hurdle. That is why we place great emphasis on prudent, slow acclimatization.

Weather and conditions on the mountain can lead to program or route changes. Participation in the expedition lies in your own individual responsibility. Furtenbach Adventures assumes no liability for accidents, damages or loss of materials.

If you are not sure whether taking part in an expedition is the right thing for you, feel free to contact Lukas Furtenbach at Tel +43 512 204134 or per email lukas@furtenbachadventures.com for an answer to this question during a personal interview!

This package in general is not suitable for persons with reduced mobility.

Note: In this trip, Furtenbach Adventures will act as an intermediary. We reveal the terms and conditions of the tour operator Antarctic Logistics & Expeditions, whose travel, cancellation and liability conditions are fully met.
Adress: 3478 South Main Street, Salt Lake City, Utha 84115 USA
Phone number: +1 801-266-4876

 

language  Entry Requirements

Passport and Visa Regulations

Swiss or EU citizens:

Chile
Swiss or EU citizens: When entering the country, you need a valid passport. At entry you will receive a tourist card, which has to be returned at departure. Travelers have to be able show evidence of their planned departure (Airplane ticket) as well as enough money for their stay in Chile.

Information on recommended vaccines and health regulations:
http://www.who.int/ith/en/

More detailed information regarding entry, visa and health requirements for this travel destination will be provided once you’ve communicated your nationality.

 

https  Insurance

We strongly recommend taking out a suitable travel insurance for Antarctica (including trip cancellation, interruption, medical and luggage insurance).

Due to the exposed location of this expedition, only very few insurance companies offer a suitable offer and this must be put together individually for each traveler. We’re happy to provide you with an individual offer upon request or after booking

 

work  Equipment

You need to bring your own personal equipment including a sleeping bag with a comfort zone for -20° C. Please consider that the temperature is likely to drop below -30° C, and a strong win-chill-effect and storms can occur. Following your booking we will send you a detailed equipment list. We will be happy to advise you personally during the selection and purchase of required equipment. With years of expedition experience, we know what has proved its worth and what not.

 

perm_identity  Physical fitness

A key success factor in expeditions is being in good shape. Train in the months before the expedition! Several hour climbs with a backpack and around 1000 meters per day should not be a problem for you. Mental training is also advised for this very challenging expedition. We will gladly provide individual advice on how to best prepare yourself mentally and physically for an expedition!

 

local_hospital  Health

We recommend that each participant undergoes a medical examination prior to the expedition. Good health is a prerequisite for participation. Particularly important is a visit to the dentist because previously unnoticed dental problems can become quite acute due to the sudden change in pressure conditions in higher altitudes.

 

landscape  Experience

Although Mount Vinson is not a technically difficult mountain, the ascent is, due to its extremely remote location, the cold of up to -45° C and the hight of 4.829 m, a serious alpin-polar endeavor. You should bring experience in cold-weather mountaineering or winter tours and be familiar with the use of ice pick and crampons in ice flanks with an inclination of up to 45°.  Also the carrying of a 20 kg backpack should not be a problem. We are very familiar with the charm and attraction of a high mountain! However, we want to make certain that you can ascend safely, come back alive, and be able to enjoy the expedition while on it and not afterwards. When booking, please let us know which heights you have already reached and which high mountains you have climbed. If you are a newcomer, no problem, we offer a bespoke program aimed to train you for reaching your desired destination.

We offer a special introductory weekend for all those who want to learn about – or refresh their knowledge of – all the skills and techniques needed on an expedition. More info here.

 

payment  Payment

Deposit Payment is made less than eleven months prior to the end of the trip and is US$ 5.000,00. The balance must be paid 90 days prior to departure. Please find more information regarding the payment in the GTC of the tour operator.

 

directions_run Right of withdrawal

The traveller has the right to withdraw from the travel contract at any time by paying the according cancellation fee stated in the  General Terms of Conditions the tour operator.

The following fees apply for cancellations on the part of the client prior to travel:

until 91 days prior to departure…………………………. US$ 1.000,00
from day 90 prior to departure ………………………….100% of the tour fee.

The tour operator will be released from the contract if the specified minimum number of participants is not achieved and if the customer has been notified about the cancellation in writing within the following periods: until 20 days prior to departure.

 

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