White Desert | Science Week

Overview

Curriculum

Itinerary

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WHERE SCIENCE MEETS ADVENTURE

20 – 27 January 2027

This exclusive seven-day adventure places you alongside renowned glaciologists, geologists, and climate researchers as they delve into the secrets of Antarctica. See the frozen continent up close, whilst learning why what happens in Antarctica truly affects us all.

Gain rare, first-hand insight into the science shaping global climate understanding. Daily field explorations led by expert polar guides deepen understanding of Antarctica’s ice sheets and the history of environmental change. Through discussions on isotopes, genetics, and living landscapes, guests explore how life endures on the continent and what it reveals about the past.

The experience is enriched by live connections with remote research stations, offering insight into the work and legacy of polar scientists. Conversations around sea ice, global systems, and the oceans culminate during a visit to the Blue Rivers, tying local observations to the planet’s wider climate story.

View more trip information and rates here.

“

'Antarctica is a pristine and stunning wilderness so remote and hostile that most of us will never lay eyes on it. But out of sight cannot mean out of mind for this region. It has a profound effect on our everyday lives and our future depends on it.'

Prof Steven Chown

SAEF

From Ice Sheets to Ocean Systems

Antarctica does not exist in isolation. Through focused discussions and field visits, guests explore how sea ice, oceans, and atmospheric systems connect the frozen continent to the rest of the planet. These sessions place Antarctica within the context of global climate systems, highlighting why changes here matter everywhere.

A journey to the Blue Rivers offers a striking, hands-on case study. Against an otherworldly backdrop of exposed blue ice and meltwater systems, guests examine the interaction between ice, rock, and ocean processes, bringing abstract scientific concepts vividly to life.

These conversations and field experiences are led by Professor Steven Chown, one of the world’s foremost polar scientists, whose four decades of Antarctic research have shaped global understanding of environmental change and conservation, alongside Emmy-nominated science journalist Cleo Abram, host of Huge If True. Together, they combine deep scientific authority with clear, engaging storytelling — guiding guests through the science, history, and future of Antarctica, and translating complex research into insights that resonate far beyond the ice.

Sample Itinerary

Science Week

White Desert Foundation

Tax deduction & donation

65% of the trip price is a donation directly to the White Desert Foundation Science Grant, which supports crucial climate-related research in Antarctica. This portion of the trip cost qualifies as a charitable donation. US guests may be eligible for tax deductions, and UK guests will receive a Gift Aid certificate.

Arrival in Antarctica

Fly from Cape Town to Wolf’s Fang Runway aboard White Desert’s Airbus A340. Transfer to Wolf’s Fang Explorer Camp, settle in, and attend an introductory briefing on the week ahead.

Ice Sheets & Landscape History

First field excursion with polar guides exploring the surrounding ice and mountain environment. Afternoon talks on ice sheet dynamics and long-term environmental change.

Life at the Extremes

Morning discussions on isotopes, genetics, and how scientists read the past through living landscapes. Afternoon exploration focused on biological resilience in Antarctica.

Scientists on the Ice

Live connections with remote Antarctic research stations. Learn about the daily realities, discoveries, and history of polar science. Evening storytelling and discussion.

The Blue Rivers Expedition

Fly by Basler or Twin Otter to the Schirmacher Oasis. Guided walk to the Blue Rivers, with in-field discussions on sea ice, meltwater, oceans, and global systems. Return to camp by evening.

Big Picture Antarctica

Synthesis day combining field observations with broader climate discussions. Open forums with scientists and hosts, reflecting on Antarctica’s role in the planet’s future.

Departure

Final reflections over breakfast before flying back to Cape Town, departing with new insights and a deeper sense of responsibility for the world’s last great wilderness.