Reached in a +- 25 minute drive from Ultima Airbase, the Ultima Oasis Camp is an oasis of quality comfort, cozy warmth and delicious fare, in from the cold. The camp gazes out toward the continental ice shelf, affording magnificent views of a sheltered ice valley and freshwater lakes, beneath an amphitheatre of rocky nunatak.
Ultima Oasis Camp is located in a valley of ice and snow, surrounded by Antarctic “nunatak” (mountains). Reached in our 6×6 or 4×4 specialised Antarctic vehicles, a +- 25 minute drive from Ultima Airbase.
Welcome to the Schirmacher Oasis – a plateau in East Antarctica (also known as Queen Maud Land). This mini-region spans some 25km, and is home to +- 100 freshwater lakes, and kissed by katabatic Antarctic winds.
Nestled in our valley are three Scandinavian-style timber cabins – plus a traditional “Banya” sauna – gazing out towards the continental ice shelf.
Two cabins host our sleeping accommodation, made up of just 11 bedrooms between them – six in Storm Petrel and five in Snow Petrel – with a choice between double- or twin-bed rooms. Cabins are heated, so as to not require more than a single layer of clothing, while inside.
Each bedroom cabin also hosts its own shared mini-lounge, for casual relaxation. Each cabin also has its own bathroom area, with two toilets and a shower.
The main Dining and Lounge Cabin is where the full Expedition parties enjoy three meals a day, and snacks and drinks in between.
Large bay-windows invite guests to pause, and take in the achingly beautiful vistas, while our Chefs prepare fine dining, and our sommelier selects perfect pairings from our world-class wine list.
In stark contrast to the freezing, brutal conditions endured by Antarctic legends of lore, our guests enjoy warmth, comfort and delicious fare, between outings into the field.
(NOTE: All food, beverages and accommodation is included in the inclusive Expedition price, with no extra costs. Also, there is no “single supplement” surcharge for single guests, who wish to enjoy our double or twin rooms.)
Activities around the camp include a range of guided hikes or gentle walks, up into the nunatak crags, or to the edge of the mesmerising continental ice shelf, with distant views north over endless ice.
Our adventurers can even enjoy an invigorating sauna and ice bath, after a day of exploration.
Stunning wooden decks out front offer a unique setting for contemplation in the Antarctic sunshine.
On every foray from the Ultima Oasis Camp, safety is paramount, and guides carefully equip guests with appropriate gear.
