Since March 2001, AE Expeditions have offered the chance for a small band of adventurous souls to attempt to repeat the epic 1916 crossing of Sir Ernest Shackleton, Frank Worsley and Tom Crean, and trek for up to three days across South Georgia from King Haakon Bay to Stromness.
South Georgia offers a spectacular yet extreme mountain environment, which must be approached with great caution. Although the crossing does not involve any actual technical climbing, there is a steep ground crossing from the Tridents down to the Crean Glacier, as well as potential risks with crevasses.
This trip is suitable for persons with alpine trekking or mountaineering experience as it traverses glaciated and mountainous terrain. Our South Georgia Alpine Crossing by Ski or Trek offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience and the chance to delve deep into some of the world’s most rugged and remote terrain.
What's Involved
Preparation for the traverse starts while on board to ensure the entire group is prepared.
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.
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.
What You'll See
Take on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure alongside skilled, knowledgeable guides as you attempt Shackleton’s historic crossing of South Georgia. This rare expedition offers the chance to experience some of the world’s most remote and challenging landscapes on an intimate, personal level. Join a dedicated team of fellow adventurers in the planning and preparation, then follow in the footsteps of Sir Ernest Shackleton, from King Haakon Bay to Stromness, on an unforgettable alpine traverse through snow-covered mountains, crevassed glaciers, and dramatic coastal terrain.
Required Experience & Fitness
Shackleton’s Crossing is not suitable for beginners. Participants must have prior alpine climbing and trekking experience, as most of the route involves glacier travel using ropes, requiring knowledge of appropriate techniques. This is a physically demanding expedition that involves long days in challenging terrain and unpredictable weather.
Each participant must be prepared to carry a 15–20 kg pack throughout the crossing. A high level of fitness and endurance is essential. If you’re unsure whether this activity is suitable for you, we encourage you to contact our Activities team. One of our experienced climbing guides will be happy to discuss the expedition with you and assess your experience and fitness level. For full requirements, please refer to the Shackleton’s Crossing flyer.
Weather Conditions
Weather in South Georgia can be highly unpredictable, and participants should be prepared for a wide range of conditions during the crossing. It’s not uncommon to experience gale-force winds, rain, snow, and sunshine, all within a single day. Due to the extreme and changeable nature of the environment, there is a high chance that weather may impact the route, and crossers may be required to turn back to King Haakon Bay or descend to Possession Bay if conditions, particularly wind, become unsafe on the alpine passes.
The ship’s captain, expedition leader, and crossing guides maintain close and constant communication to ensure that safety remains the highest priority throughout the attempt.
What to Bring
Please refer to the flyer for a full list of required gear. Good quality equipment is essential for your safety during the crossing. While Aurora Expeditions supplies ropes, snow stakes, ice screws, survival equipment, and camping gear (including tents, stoves, and fuel), you will be required to bring your own personal climbing equipment, and it must be in good working condition.
All personal gear will be inspected by our climbing guides prior to the first outing to ensure it meets safety standards. If any item is deemed unsafe or unsuitable for the conditions, guides reserve the right to prohibit its use.
How to Book
Shackleton's Crossing Activity is offered as an optional activity for an additional surcharge and includes expert guides, necessary permits, scheduled outings, and all essential equipment listed on this page.
If you would like to participate in the Shackleton’s Crossing in South Georgia by Ski or by Foot, please request an Activity Form at the time of booking for submission. Our guides will review your form for suitability and experience before approving your place in the activity.
South Georgia | Credit: Tarn Pilkington
South Georgia | Credit: Michael Baynes
