The Last Desert (Antarctica) is the final race in the 4 Deserts Ultramarathon Series. Competitors are invited to The Last Desert when they have successfully completed at least two RacingThePlanet Ultramarathons. At this race we provide a limited number of places to Friends / Family of both competitors and staff, giving them the opportunity to share this unique experience as we recognise that most people will only ever visit Antarctica once in their lifetime. This is available by invitation only.
Activities for Friends & Family: Friends & Family members can share a cabin with their friend who is competing, or with another passenger. On the voyage to and from Antarctica you will share experiences with your friend / family member such as watching wildlife, listening to experts talk about specialist Antarctic topics and enjoying meals on the special expedition ship. Once in Antarctica, the ship will move to a different location each day where competitors will complete up to six stages of the race. As a friend / family member you can choose from a variety of special activities each day:
“Normal” tourist activities (such as zodiac safaris, snowshoeing, visiting research bases, photography, wildlife tours, etc.). Kayaking and potentially camping may also be available, however, a special fee will apply; Cheering on The Last Desert competitors; Volunteering during The Last Desert (this is completely optional); and Relaxing on the expedition ship. Specific activities include:
- Special hikes set up daily.
- Soft climbing up Antarctica’s steep hills.
- Snowshoe hikes.
- Exploring the many hundreds of photo opportunities.
- Zodiac excursions.
- Land excursions (easy-to-moderate walks and hikes that focus on wildlife).
- Visits to the manned research stations found in the Antarctic.
- Kayaking.
- Camping.
Itinerary: You can download the itinerary from this link.
Application: If you haven't already, please complete this application. Under “Select Registration” choose “Friends and Family” and under “Select Race” highlight “The Last Desert (Antarctica) 2026.
Contact us at info@racingtheplanet.com to inquire if space is available or if you would like to upgrade to another room type.
Terms and Conditions: To reserve a place, you must pay a non-refundable deposit of US$5,000. The balance payment of US$8,900 is due on or before 13 May 2026. The deposit and balance are non-refundable. We strongly advise you to take out insurance in case of any cancellation. The deposit and balance are non-refundable. We strongly advise you to take out insurance in case of any cancellation.
*Note: A fuel surcharge of US$25 per night / US$250 may be applied if fuel prices exceed US$190 / Brent barrel, or US$50 per night / US$500 if fuel prices exceed US$120 / Brent barrel.
