The view from the summit of Mount Vinson has been described as other-worldly. You are likely standing under an indescribably bright blue sky, gazing out at thousands of square miles of ice and snow, against the background of a curved horizon. At 16,050 feet (4,892 meters), Vinson Massif is the highest point in Antarctica, located about 750 miles from the South Pole. Discovered and named in 1957, the mountain was first climbed in 1966 by the American Antarctic Mountaineering Expedition – a team of ten scientists and mountaineers sponsored by the American Alpine Club, the National Geographic Society and supported by the U.S. Navy and the National Science Foundation. Since then, fewer than 1,000 people have stood on the summit.

Gear and Clothing

The weather on Mount Vinson is fairly stable, thanks to the constant high pressure system created by the polar ice cap. The area receives only about 18 inches of snow during the austral summer, but storms are not uncommon, with high winds and extreme cold (-20° to -30°F). Consequently, high-altitude expedition gear is required for the climb, with special emphasis on protection from the cold and intense, 24-hour-a-day sunlight. (See What It Costs To Buy Expedition Clothing And Gear ).

On the other hand, be prepared for mild temperatures when you arrive in Punta Arenas, Chile, where daytime temps can reach 60°F during the summer /

Immunizations

Be sure your routine immunizations, such as tetanus, hepatitis, and influenza, are up-to-date. You must pass a standard Antarctic medical examination performed by a certified medical examiner. (Your guide service will provide you with details.)

Passports and Visas - $100+

There are special entry forms and permits required to enter Antarctica, but no passport or visa is needed since no single government owns the continent. The entry permits are often arranged for you by your guide service or travel agent.

You will, however, need a passport for your travels in South America. If you are an American citizen, no visa is required, but a $100 “reciprocity fee” will be charged upon your arrival in Chile.

When To Go

Expeditions on Mt. Vinson take advantage of the austral summer season, and are usually scheduled from mid-November to the end of January, when the average temperature on the mountain will be about -20°F. The sun never sets during this time of year, so be sure to bring plenty of sunblock for your face and lips.

Airfare

Your flight from the United States will take you through Santiago, Chile and then farther south to Punta Arenas. If all goes well, flying time should be around 24 hours. All prices are approximate.

• $1,300 to $2,350 - Round trip from New York City (LGA) to Punta Arenas, Chile (PUQ)
• $1,500 to $1,900 - Rround trip from Chicago (ORD) to Punta Arenas, Chile (PUQ)
• $1,370 to $1,700 - Round trip from Los Angeles LAX) to Punta Arenas, Chile (PUQ)