How it all
started
Our Story
White Desert began with a simple but radical idea: that Antarctica — a place long reserved for scientists and extreme explorers — could be experienced in a way that was both deeply respectful of the environment and entirely unlike traditional polar travel. The company’s origins trace back to years of expeditionary work in some of the continent’s most remote regions, where the promise of sharing this extraordinary landscape with others first took shape. What started as a small, ambitious venture operating from just a handful of tents has grown into a world-leading Antarctic enterprise that welcomes guests into the interior while supporting scientific research and protecting the fragile environment that makes the continent so unique. From the outset, the mission was clear: to open the door to Antarctica responsibly, blending logistical precision with a level of comfort previously unheard of on the ice.
The story of White Desert is, ultimately, the story of the people who believed it could be done.
We found the interior surreal and inspiring and felt others should experience this breath-taking place in luxury and, hopefully, be changed in the most positive way. It also had to be environmentally sound; with 24 hours of sunshine and the relentless wind, solar and wind power were obvious choices from the outset.
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Patrick Woodhead
Co-Founder
Our Founders
Patrick Woodhead
Co-Founder & CEO
Robyn Woodhead
Co-Founder
White Desert was born from exploration and a belief that Antarctica could be shared.
More
about us
Foundation
By leveraging our unique access to the Antarctic interior, we support researchers studying the planet’s climate and drive initiatives that reduce carbon emissions while restoring fragile ecosystems
Operation
Every element of our operations is designed to let guests experience Antarctica at the highest level — fully immersed, inspired, and without compromise.
Our Camps
At White Desert, each of our camps reveals a different facet of Antarctica’s astonishing beauty.
Our Trips
Discover Antarctica like few ever will with White Desert’s four signature experiences
