Whichaway

At A Glance

Destinations

Accommodation Highlights

See masses of emperor penguins in November
High to low adrenalin activities on offer from ice climbing to picnics
Stay in luxury, state-of-the-art polar pods
Visit the South Pole - geographic and magnetic
Abseil amongst or ice climb up blue ice glaciers
Explore ice tunnels sculpted over centuries by seasonal meltwater

Overview of Whichaway

Antarctica

Antarctica, the southernmost continent and the least visited of the world’s seven, is a place of unparalleled beauty and seclusion and the land of the geographical and magnetic South Poles. This remote wilderness is technically a desert: its vast ice sheets hold over 70% of the planet’s freshwater, yet rainfall is rare. Historically the domain of scientists and intrepid explorers, luxury tourism in Antarctica is a recent innovation, pursued with careful attention to conservation. Whichaway, a groundbreaking retreat by White Desert, exemplifies this delicate balance, offering an intimate, sustainable gateway to one of Earth's most pristine and awe-inspiring landscapes.

Whichaway is set on the rocky shores of the Schirmacher Oasis, a rare iceless area beside a freshwater lake. The camp features a select number of “polar pods”, expertly engineered to shield guests from the harsh Antarctic conditions while offering interiors styled with timeless elegance. Open during the continent's brief summer from mid-November onward, the experience includes unforgettable encounters with emperor penguins early in the season, as well as season-long ice climbing, exploring ethereal ice tunnels, scaling blue-ice glaciers to reach a nunatak summit, and abseiling down a 100-meter cliff surrounded by dazzling blue ice. These one-of-a-kind adventures make Whichaway a destination unlike any other.

More than a luxury retreat, Whichaway is a model of sustainable tourism, committed to minimising environmental impact while assisting with vital research and conservation. By prioritising preservation, it sets a benchmark for eco-conscious travel in Antarctica. The adventure begins with a private flight from Cape Town, where guests are briefed and outfitted with specialised cold-weather gear. For those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime pairing, a trip to Antarctica can be seamlessly combined with a safari in Africa, particularly South Africa—a perfect union of two extraordinary worlds.

 

 

Highlights & Activities

What's on offer whilst on this itinerary?
See masses of emperor penguins in November
High to low adrenalin activities on offer from ice climbing to picnics
Stay in luxury, state-of-the-art polar pods
Visit the South Pole - geographic and magnetic
Abseil amongst or ice climb up blue ice glaciers
Explore ice tunnels sculpted over centuries by seasonal meltwater

Day tours

Fine dining experience

Guided walks

Hiking

Picnics

Specialist guides

Yoga

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Rooms at Whichaway

Unwind and relax, in your own private luxury
  • Luxurious interiors with rich colours and textures.
  • white-desert-whichaway-antarctica-polar-pod-room
  • white-desert-whichaway-antarctica-polar-pod-interior-washroom-area

Polar Pod

Whichaway stands as the flagship luxury camp, ensuring unparalleled comfort in a landscape of extremes. The state-of-the-art, eco-conscious “polar pods” are meticulously designed to withstand frigid temperatures while offering warm, inviting interiors. Each pod, measuring six metres (20 feet) in diameter, features a plush bed—configured as a double or twin on request—along with an en-suite toilet, wash area with bio-degradable amenities, and a writing desk. The interiors pay homage to Antarctica's storied history of exploration, blending bold textures and sumptuous comfort to evoke a sense of adventure and elegance.

Thoughtfully engineered to meet the unique challenges of the South Pole, the pods maintain their cosy atmosphere while conserving resources. Given the difficulties of plumbing in such a cold climate, shower facilities are located in a separate, dedicated pod where you can indulge in a luxurious, hot shower.

General Facilities

The camp has a collection of polar pods that include accommodations and communal spaces. Central to the camp is the dining room pod, where you come together to enjoy gourmet meals. The Lounge Pod, a favourite daytime retreat, offers cosy couches where you can relax and enjoy a warm drink in between activities and meals.

If you're looking to rejuvenate, the sauna pod provides an inviting space to unwind after an adventurous morning of ice climbing or abseiling, complete with endless Antarctic views. Once your muscles are relaxed and warmed, the yoga space offers an opportunity to stretch, centre yourself, and practice asanas amidst the serene, otherworldly beauty of the land of the South Pole.

Bar

Battery-charging

Lounge

Private chef

Solar power

Wellness centre

Dining

Dining at Whichaway is a remarkable experience, with gourmet meals prepared by a private chef in one of the world's most remote locations. Each dish is crafted to provide warmth and comfort, perfectly complementing the Antarctic adventure. Gather in the toasty dining room pod, a cosy retreat from the icy surroundings where hearty and delicious fare is served with impeccable attention to detail.

Despite summer temperatures outside averaging -5°C (23°F), the dining experience is anything but cold. From energising breakfasts to multi-course dinners paired with fine wine, every meal reflects White Desert's commitment to luxury and sustainability.

Expert Opinion

We know because we go
Liesel van Zyl

Liesel van Zyl

Head of Positive Impact and Product Development

Whichaway is an incredible base from which to experience Antarctica without giving up comfort. The polar pods are cosy, the food is great, and the activities—like ice climbing and exploring glaciers—are unforgettable. It's a destination unlike any other - a must-add for your bucket list.

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