Mount Vinson Massif
Otherworldly Seven Summit Expedition on Antarctica
The expedition to climb to the summit of the Vinson Massif is arguably one of our most intriguing journeys! The 16,050-foot / 4892-meter mountain is the highest point on the continent of Antarctica. For most that have the unique opportunity to join us on this Seven Summit expedition, their definition of wilderness will be redefined. Isolated and starkly beautiful, the icy continent of Antarctica is beyond description and offers an adventure of a lifetime for team members.
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Trip Perks
There is no other place like this in the world — that’s all there is to it.
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Description
We leave Punta Arenas, Chile for the six-hour flight to Union Glacier. Our flight takes us over Tierra del Fuego, past the Antarctic Circle and on to Union Glacier. Your camp at Union Glacier near the southern end of the range is like no other place on Earth; a remote place to be sure, some 1078 km (670 miles) from the nearest habitation — the distance from New York to Chicago — and our closest neighbors are at the South Pole! For almost 2880 km (1,800 miles) in any direction there is not a city or town. When the aircraft leaves to return to Chile you will be struck by the awesome expanse of the area, its beauty, and your isolation from home. You have now landed on the most southerly runway in the world.
From Union Glacier we make a one-hour flight to base camp. With sleds loaded we move up the mountain, establishing two or three camps before our summit attempt. From high camp the final climb consists of moderate snow and ice climbing.
In technical terms our climb is considered moderate, but cold temperatures (minus 20 – 30 degrees Fahrenheit are not uncommon) and strong winds often increase the challenge. However, during the austral summer there are usually less than 18 inches of snow and 24 hours of daylight contributes to our success on the climb.
After our climb we return to base camp and make arrangements for the return flight to Union Glacier and home. With frequent delays due to poor conditions for aircraft landings and take off, expect delays during the trip. For this reason we have added several days to the itinerary. It is nonetheless strongly advised that you have an additional week beyond our scheduled dates cleared of appointments and work should lengthy delays occur. Trip insurance is required for this trip.
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Qualifications
Given the rigors of this expedition, we require that you have proven high altitude experience, technical proficiency, and excellent physical fitness. You should be familiar with extreme cold, tent living, exposure to steep terrain, and more. Members should be able to ascend and descend fixed lines independently and be proficient with cramponing on steep ice/snow slopes.
For those with minimal mountaineering and/or any high altitude experience a logical progression might look like this:
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Antarctica's Vinson Massif - The Cold Hard Facts About The Continent
- Antarctica is the Earth’s 5th largest continent, measuring 14 million square kilometers (5.4 million square miles).
- The ice sheet that covers almost all of Antarctica is the largest body of freshwater on Earth, containing about 90% of the world’s ice and 68% of the freshwater.
- If Antarctica’s ice sheet were to melt, it would raise the level of the world’s oceans about 60 meters (200 feet).
- The thickest part of the ice sheet extends about 4800km (2980m) (15,700 feet) into submerged basins in the rock.
- Antarctica has the greatest average elevation of any continent at 1860 meters (6,100 feet). The average elevation of North America is 720 meters (2,300 feet).
- The highest mountain on the continent is Vinson Massif, 4898 meters (16,077 feet), situated in the Ellsworth Mountains.
- The snowfall in Antarctica is so minimal that the continent has been called “the world’s coldest desert.” The interior receives less than 3 cm (1 inch) of precipitation a year, making it the driest continent on Earth.
- The Antarctic dry valleys in Victoria Land are among the driest places on Earth. Some scientists believe that no rain has fallen there for two million years. Astronauts have visited the dry valleys because of their similarity to lunar landscapes.
- During winter months, low temperatures cause much of the seas around Antarctica to freeze. At maximum, sea ice covers an area larger than the continent itself.
- The South Pole experiences a six month period of darkness in winter and a six month period of sunlight in summer.
- Antarctica is the only continent in the world with no permanent or indigenous human inhabitants. Larger than the United States, the frozen land is populated by approximately 2,500 people during the summer and fewer than 1,000 in the winter.
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Price
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Vinson Massif
$49,000 – 20-21 Days / Includes travel time from Punta Arenas and contingency days
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Price Includes
- Guide
- Airfare from Punta Arenas to Union Glacier and to Base Camp
- Welcome dinner in Punta Arenas
- All meals while in Antarctica
- All team climbing gear, tents, cooking gear and sleds
- All expedition support staff
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Price does not Include
- International airfare
- Chili entry visa and airport fees
- Meals and lodging while in Punta Arenas
- Personal climbing gear and clothing
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, room service, extra hotel nights, extra meals, etc.)
- Travel insurance with trip cancellation, medical and evacuation policy
- All expenses associated with non-scheduled departure
- Alcoholic and bottled beverages
- Additional costs incurred due to circumstances beyond the control of Mountain Madness
- Guide gratuities
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Payment Schedule
- $8,000 non-refundable deposit upon confirmation of your eligibility to join the expedition
- Balance due 120 days prior to departure
- The balance may be paid by check, wire transfer, ACH or credit card with a 3% convenience fee
Dates
Space is limited. We strongly suggest Vinson climbers register as soon as possible in order to reserve a spot on our expedition.
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Vinson Massif 2024 - 2025
- Dec 14, 2024 — Jan 3, 2025
- Dec 26, 2024 — Jan 15, 2025
Flights to and from Antarctica are subject to change based on weather. We strongly encourage you to buy changeable return flights home to accommodate the necessary contingency days.
Policies
Cancellation / Refund Policy
- MMI strongly recommends trip cancellation/interruption and evacuation insurance for all trips. Our insurance partner, Ripcord, offers comprehensive travel insurance including trip cancellation, as well as rescue/evacuation policies and can assist in answering any questions. In addition, Participant is expected to have sufficient medical insurance as prescribed by their country of origin. Participant understands that MMI does not include any type of insurance with the cost of the trip.
- If you decide to cancel your trip or change your itinerary, MMI must be notified in writing. Your trip will be cancelled from the date written notice is received. If proper written cancellation notice is not received, amounts paid and reservations made will be forfeited.
- Non-refundable fees may apply for certain trips in order to secure permits and other services. MMI must strictly adhere to cancellation policies outside MMI’s control.
- Due to the personalized service we offer on our trips, MMI reserves the right to waive any fees. We will attempt to accommodate changes and cancellations, waiving certain fees when feasible.
- Circumstances outside the control of MMI and its partners, may require amended cancellation/refund policies. Such circumstances may include, but are not limited to COVID-19, natural disasters, terrorism and so forth.
Trips with Special Consideration (Carstensz, Cho Oyu, Denali, Logan and Vinson):
- Full refund, less the non-refundable deposit/registration fee, will be provided 121 days or more before the departure date
- No refunds will be provided 120 days or less before the departure date
Trip Insurance
We strongly recommend the purchase of travel cancellation insurance to protect you from the unexpected. You aren’t likely to think of it now, but people do get ill, break a bone, have a family emergency or get assigned to a last-minute business trip. If you are in remote areas, please note that emergency rescue & evacuation can be very expensive.
We also strongly urge you to consider rescue and evacuation insurance if your own policy does not provide the coverage needed. Services available may include, but are not limited to, helicopter evacuation, medical care, etc.
If you choose not to purchase insurance, you assume full responsibility for any expenses incurred in the event of a medical emergency and/or evacuation, as well as for trip cancellation, interruption, lost luggage, etc. We are not the experts and therefore ask that you please consult our travel insurance partner directly with any specific questions.
To protect against losses due to illness, accident, or other unforeseen circumstances, Mountain Madness strongly recommends the purchase of travel insurance as soon as possible after making a deposit. Mountain Madness has partnered with Redpoint Resolutions as our preferred travel insurance provider. Redpoint’s Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ is designed for adventurers.
For a quote, or to purchase travel insurance, please click this link Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ or call +1 – 415-481‑0600. Pricing varies based on age, trip cost, trip length, and level of coverage.
Critical benefits of Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance include:
- A completely integrated program with a single point of contact for emergency services, travel assistance, and insurance claims
- Evacuation and rescue services from your point of injury or illness to your hospital of choice
- Comprehensive travel insurance for trip cancellation/interruption, primary medical expense coverage, baggage loss or delay, emergency accident and emergency sickness medical expense, emergency dental, accidental death and dismemberment, and more
- Optional security evacuation coverage in case of an unplanned natural disaster or other security events
- Waiver for pre-existing conditions (must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit)
- Optional “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage (must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit)
Itinerary
Flight Information
Antarctica is a unique destination, which presents travellers with many challenges. Coordinating a flexible return date from Antarctica with fixed reservations on commercial airlines is one of these challenges. Flights to and from the continent may be delayed due to weather conditions. It is important to allow for extra time at the end of the trip. Since all flights to and from Antarctica are weather dependent, it is probable that you will need to make changes to your return flight reservations on short notice (about 4 hours). Please consult with our office regarding flights and your best options.
Dates include international travel and include some extra days. Trip duration will be shorter with no delays.
Please contact our office for any help needed with flight schedule
Vinson Massif Day to Day
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Day 1-2
Travel
Fly to Punta Arenas, Chile. Hotel night on day two.
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Day 3-4
Punta Arenas
Make final preparations, including equipment check with MM guides. Orientation with ALE, for the flight to Union Glacier We will also have time to explore the interesting port city of Punta Arenas. Hotel overnight.
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Day 5-6
Base Camp
Elevation: 7,000 ft / 2134 m
Weather permitting, we make the 4.5 hour flight to Union Glacier and continue to base camp located on the Branscomb Glacier. The flight from Union Glacier to base camp will be on a Twin Otter. Once at base camp we organize our camp and prepare for our ascent.
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Day 7
Carry To Camp 1
Elevation: 9,600 ft / 2920 m
Our first day on the trail, we leave supplies at a major bend in the glacier, at 9,600 feet / 2920 meters. Return to base camp.
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Day 8
Move To Camp 1
Elevation: 9,600 ft / 2920 m
We set-up camp and begin preparations for moving up the mountain when the team is ready and weather conditions are good.
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Day 9
Climb the Headwall for Carry to Camp 2 (High Camp)
Elevation: 12,400 ft / 3780 m
From camp we move up the steep headwall that rises above camp utilizing fixed lines. Moderate slopes lead to the broad col between Vinson and Mount Shinn where we drop a load of gear at 12,400 feet / 3780 meters and then return to Camp 1. Due to the thinning of the atmosphere at Polar Regions, the elevation here will feel higher and may result in some mountain sickness among team members.
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Day 10-14
Rest Day /Move to High Camp/Summit Day During this period
Elevation: 16,077 ft / 4898 m
From high camp we traverse about 3 miles and gain about 3,600 feet / 1100 meters on our way to the summit. From the summit we are greeted with outstanding views of the Ellsworth Range, the Ronne Ice Shelf and the vast horizons of the icy continent. We spend the night again at high camp. There are four reserve days built into the itinerary in the event of bad weather or a rest is needed.
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Day 15-16
Base Camp
Return to base camp. Fly to Union Glacier. Reserve day.
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Day 17
Puntas Arenas
Weather permitting, return to Punta Arenas.
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Day 18-21
Fly Home
Depart Punta Arenas and fly home. Days 18 – 21 are reserve days.
Note on Itinerary: Although we do our very best to follow the schedule listed, this itinerary is subject to change due to inclement weather, unsafe route conditions, or other reasons beyond our control and in the guide’s best judgement.
Equipment for Mount Vinson Massif
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Carrying Gear
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Large capacity climbing pack (85-105L)
Lightweight as possible with a volume of 5,000 – 6,500 cubic inches (85-105 liters)
Examples:
Osprey Aether 85, Osprey Zenith 105
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Large duffel bag (150L)
One at least 7,000 cubic inch capacity (150 liters). Must be durable and waterproof
Examples:
Patagonia Black Hole
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Small duffel bag
Large enough to hold everything you’re not taking on the mountain. Will be stored at hotel, to be used after trip
Examples:
Patagonia Black Hole
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Small padlock for duffel bags
Extra security
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Baggage tags
Makes identifying your bags easy at airports or hotels
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Sleeping Gear
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Expedition quality sleeping bag (-40F Down or Synthetic)
One down or synthetic bag rated from -40°F / -40°C
Examples:
Feathered Friends Snow Goose EX, Marmot Cwm
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Sleeping pad (inflatable or closed cell foam)
A foam pad will be provided but a supplemental pad is recommended. This can be an inflatable or closed cell foam pad. Make sure to purchase a pad rated for cold conditions.
Examples:
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir & Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol
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Sleeping pad (foam)
A foam pad will be provided but a supplemental sleeping pad is advised for warmth and comfort. Closed cell foam 3/4 or full length. This pad is used in conjunction with the first pad
Examples:
Therm-a-rest Ridgerest
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Climbing Gear
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Alpine climbing harness
Must have adjustable leg loops and fit over all clothing
Examples:
Black Diamond Couloir, Petzl Altitude, Petzl Hirundos
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Mountaineering ice axe
under 5’7” use 60cm, 5’7”-6’2” use 60 or 65cm, over 6’2” use 70cm
Examples:
Black Diamond Raven, Petzl Glacier
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Crampons w/ anti-balling plate
Steel 12-pont. Must be fit to climbing boots prior to trip, new-matic/hybrid type
Examples:
Black Diamond Sabretooth, Petzl Vasak
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Locking carabiners (3)
Three large, pear-shaped carabiners are best
Examples:
Black Diamond Rock Lock, Petzl William, Petzl Attache
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Non-locking carabiners (6)
6 non-locking carabiners. wired straight-gates are recommended
Examples:
Black Diamond HotWire
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Ascender (single)
One full-sized ascender with handle for fixed lines (left handed for right handed climbers, or vice-versa)
Examples:
Petzl Ascension
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Belay device (plaquette)
Tube style
Examples:
Black Diamond ATC Guide, Petzl Reverso
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Climbing helmet
Lightweight
Examples:
Black Diamond Half Dome, Petzl Elios
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50’ of perlon accessory cord
Accessory cord, made of nylon, is useful for many purposes on an expedition. You should bring 50 feet of 6mm cord
Examples:
Sterling
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Adjustable trekking poles
Three piece poles recommended
Examples:
Black Diamond Trail Back Pole
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Head and Face
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Fleece or wool hat
It must cover the ears
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Shade hat or baseball cap
A visor hat with a good brim is essential for protection from the sun
Examples:
Mountain Madness trucker hat
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Bandanas or neck gaiter
Various uses, i.e. cleaning glasses, sun protection when tied around the neck, etc. We have our own Mountain Madness neck gaiter available for purchase!
Examples:
Mountain Madness neck gaiter
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Balaclava or Buff
A thin balaclava will add significant warmth on that cold summit day
Examples:
Outdoor Research, Marmot
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Facemask
Neoprene or microfleece ski type
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Nose guard
To protect you from the wind and sun
Examples:
Beko
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Glacier glasses
100% UV protection with side shields and a hard-sided storage case
Examples:
Julbo
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Ski goggles
To fit over glacier glasses in high wind. Rose or amber lenses
Examples:
Smith, Oakley
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Hands
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Liner gloves
Two pairs thin fleece or synthetic
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Softshell gloves
One pair medium-weight for daily wear when it’s not too cold
Examples:
Black Diamond Arc, Arcteryx Zenta LT Glove
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Expedition gloves
Insulated, water resistant shell with leather palms
Examples:
Black Diamond Guide
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Expedition mitts
One pair Gore-Tex or equivalent, with textured palms and taped seams. Synthetic or down filled. Warm, heavy duty for cold temperatures
Examples:
Outdoor Research Altimitt
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Feet
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Thin socks (6 pair)
Six pairs of synthetic or wool socks to wear under heavy wool socks to help prevent blisters and keep feet dry
Examples:
Smartwool or Cool Max
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Thick socks (6 pair)
Six pairs of synthetic or wool socks, medium to heavyweight. Check boot fit with thin and thick socks on
Examples:
Smartwool or Thorlo
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Booties
Synthetic or down to keep feet warm while in tent
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High-altitude double mountaineering boots (8000m)
Insulated boots rated for 8,000-meter peak climbs with a warm removable liner and built in, insulated overboot
Examples:
La Sportiva Olympus Mons, Scarpa Phantom 8000
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Light hiking boots or trail shoes
For acclimatization hikes
Examples:
Salomon X-Ultra 3 Mid, Merrell Moab, La Sportiva Boulder Ex
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Upper Body
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Synthetic t-shirts
Two synthetic or merino wool t-shirts. No cotton!
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Long-sleeved Base Layer
Two lightweight to mediumweight, pull-over is best
Examples:
Patagonia Capilene
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Sports bras
Two, synthetic, no cotton!
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Light fleece hoodie
Light or medium-weight fleece (or wool) top with a hood. You will wear this over your light weight base layer
Examples:
Mountain Equipment Eclipse Half-Zip Hoodie
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Down or synthetic jacket w/hood
This is your most important piece of warm gear and will mean the difference between an enjoyable climb or a miserable one. A warm, full zip jacket with hood is ideal.
Examples:
Helly Hansen Vanir, Feathered Friends Volant, Marmot Guide’s Down Hoody, Outdoor Research Virtuoso Hoody
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Softshell Jacket w/ hood
This is what you will be wearing while hiking at higher altitudes or while kicking around camps at lower altitude. This jacket should be full-zip
Examples:
Outdoor Research Ferrosi
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Hardshell jacket w/ hood
A good jacket made of Gore-Tex (recommended) or waterproof nylon, roomy enough to fit over multiple layers
Examples:
Outdoor Research Foray, Patagonia Triolet
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Expedition down parka w/ hood (Feathered Friends Rock and Ice Parka, Marmot 8000 Meter Parka)
This is your most important piece of warm gear and will mean the difference between an enjoyable climb or a miserable one. A warm, full zip jacket with hood is mandatory. It’s important that you jacket is 700+ fill down, baffle construction (not sewn through seams) and as a thick, insulated hood
Examples:
Feathered Friends Rock and Ice Parka, Marmot 8000 Meter Parka
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Sun hoody
This piece with a high SPF rating and lightweight fabric offers protection from high altitude sun
Examples:
Outdoor Research
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Lower Body
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Undergarments
Adequate supply for the entire trip
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Long base layer
Two pairs light or mediumweight
Examples:
Patagonia Capilene
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Softshell pants
Softshell pants are water resistant, yet highly breathable and durable. Great for colder conditions over a pair of long underwear or tights higher on the mountain or summit day
Examples:
Outdoor Research Voodoo, Mountain Hardwear Touren, Patagonia Guide
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Hardshell pants
waterproof and breathable with side zips (minimum of ¾ zips recommended) Gore-Tex or equivalent
Examples:
Outdoor Research Furio, Arcteryx Beta AR
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Insulated pants
Synthetic or down with full side zip. Warm insulation for upper mountain
Examples:
Mountain Hardwear Compressor
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Miscellaneous
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Stuff sacks/ditty bags/plastic bags
To organize gear in your duffle and pack. All clothing should be kept dry using waterproof stuff sacks or large heavyweight plastic bags (trash compactor bags work great)
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Toiletries
Toothbrush and paste, comb, tampons, biodegradable soap (small amount), etc. Bring enough for the entire trip
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Toilet paper
1 – 2 rolls stored in a plastic bag
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Sunscreen
Bring plenty of sun block with SPF of 40 or more. It's easy to underestimate the amount necessary for your trip!
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Lip balm
Must have SPF rating of 20 or more. Bring two just in case!
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Ear plugs
To block out snoring and other noise to ensure a good night's sleep
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Water bottles with insulators
Two one-liter wide-mouthed plastic bottles
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Small stainless-steel thermos (optional)
For hot beverages on summit day
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Water purification
Steri Pen, Potable Aqua, Polar Pure crystal iodine. Purifies drinking water while on the trip.
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Water flavoring
Powdered additives like Gatorade or NUUN are a nice change of pace to water and help replenish much needed electrolytes.
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Large plastic bowl
Bring a 2-4 cup camping bowl or a plastic "Rubbermaid" style container for your mountain dining
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Insulated cup (12-16oz)
A 12-16 oz (350-500 ml) mug with an attached lid will help keep you hydrated
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Lexan spoon or spork
Lightweight and strong
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Headlamp
Bring extra batteries!
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Pocket knife or multitool
Simple Swiss Army type with scissors. Make sure you transport in checked bag, not carry-on!
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Personal first aid and drug kit
small personal first aid kit with ample bandaids and moleskin
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Nausea medications
Pepto Bismol tablets; Maalox, Gelusil M or Mylanta antacid tablets. Donnatal for stomach cramps. Probiotic capsules taken daily may help keep your gastro-intestinal system working smoothly
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Towel
For wash up in camp
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Handi-Wipes
A small pack or two anti-bacterial are great for general hygiene
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Spare contacts and glasses
Contacts can be a problem in dusty conditions, so make sure you have your back-up glasses with you. Glasses wearers should have a spare set
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Snacks (general)
Bring your favorite snacks and power/energy bars or if there is something else you particularly like to eat while hiking and climbing
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Spare bottle for a pee bottle, and a pee funnel (Lady J or Freshette) for women
It can be a cold walk to the toilet at night
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Insect repellent
A must!
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Personal electronics
Phone with camera, and/or separate camera. Bring extra batteries and memory!
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Electronics charging
If you want to charge your electronics along the way, a small, lightweight solar panel to charge batteries or portable charging device may be a good addition
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Travel power adapter
Most come in kits with all the plugs you need. Double-check to make sure you’re taking the correct adapter/plugs
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Travel clothing
Comfortable clothing for travel before and after the expedition
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Book Trip
Vinson Massif
$49,000
20-21 Days / Includes travel time from Punta Arenas and contingency days
Mount Vinson Elevation
16,050 ft / 4892 m
Route
Normal Route
Client to Guide Ratio
4:1
Difficulty
Intermediate
Climbers should be comfortable on steeper snow/ice slopes. Experience with ascending fixed ropes suggested, but not required. Some high altitude and arctic environment experience also recommended- call our office for details. 800−328−5925
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