Shackleton’s Crossing

Embark on an incredible adventure as we invite a select group of intrepid individuals to retrace the legendary 1916 expedition of Sir Ernest Shackleton, Frank Worsley, and Tom Crean. You’ll have the opportunity to trek for up to three days across the breathtaking landscapes of South Georgia, spanning from King Haakon Bay to Stromness.

South Georgia boasts a stunning yet challenging mountain environment, demanding a cautious approach. While the journey doesn’t involve technical climbing, there are steep descents from the Tridents to the Crean Glacier, and potential hazards associated with crevasses.

This expedition is best suited for those with prior alpine trekking or mountaineering experience, as it traverses glacial and mountainous terrain. Our South Georgia Alpine Crossing by Ski or Trek promises a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, allowing you to immerse yourself in some of the world’s most rugged and remote landscapes.

Example Alpine Crossing Itinerary

Day 1
Ascend to Murray Snowfield, traverse up and over Trident Pass. Descend to Crean Camp.

Day 2
Pre-dawn start. Ascend Crean Glacier to Great Nunatak. Cross Fortuna Glacier and descend to Fortuna Bay. Overnight on the ship.

Day 3
Walk Fortuna Bay to Stromness, accompanied by fit passengers. Sail to Grytviken and Shackleton’s grave.

Please note: Itinerary is subject to departure time, weather and ice conditions. Crossing length, route and time will vary.

Crossing Length and Time

The crossing distance can vary from 35 to 50 kilometres depending on the route we take and involves crossing large, heavily crevassed glaciers and alpine passes. In good weather, the crossing could take only two days, but we allow three days in case of bad weather.

Our Guides

Our guides have many years of climbing experience in our destinations and hold relevant mountain instruction and safety certifications. The guide will lead the group adhering to strict safety practices as well as explain facts about the wildlife and other highlights as we come across them. We have one Alpine Crossing guide for every 4-6 crossers. You can view our Alpine Crossing guides’ profiles here.

How to Book

If you would like to participate in the Shackleton’s Crossing in South Georgia by Ski or by Foot, please return the activity form at the time of booking. Our guide will review your form for suitability and experience before approving your place.