Jordan Wylie’s Antarctic Odyssey 2025 Begins

Day 1: The Journey Begins

Jordan Wylie’s Antarctic Odyssey 2025 is officially underway—but not without its first challenge.

Day one was dominated by travel as Jordan moved from London Heathrow to Madrid, and then onward on a long-haul flight to Punta Arenas, Chile, the historic gateway to Antarctic exploration. After many hours in the air, he finally touched down at the southernmost city on the South American mainland.

But upon arrival, there was an unexpected setback: his bags never arrived.

With essential kit missing—including cold-weather gear needed for the most extreme continent on Earth—Jordan now faces a race against time to recover his equipment before he departs for Antarctica. Despite the rocky start, his spirits remain high as he gears up for the next phase of the expedition.

Day 2: Staying Positive in Punta Arenas

Day two of Antarctic Odyssey 2025 begins with a mixture of frustration, humour, and determination. Jordan is preparing for an audacious mission to climb and hopefully summit a series of untouched mountain peaks—yet, as he points out wryly, he doesn’t even have a woolly jumper.

His bags are still missing, meaning he has been wearing the same clothes for three days. Fortunately, his Huel gear has at least kept him covered while he awaits updates from the airport. This morning, he’s heading back to check for any news—“it’s getting tight now,” he admits.

But it’s not all setbacks. There’s some uplifting news from home:

The Birchman Group has donated £2,500 to Jordan’s fundraising page, a huge boost to the expedition’s charitable mission.

And if there’s anywhere in the world to wait for an Antarctic weather window—or missing luggage—it’s Punta Arenas. This windswept city has seen the likes of Shackleton, Scott, and Amundsen pass through on their legendary journeys south. Jordan takes comfort in standing where history’s greatest explorers once stood.

He’s staying optimistic, despite the delays.

He even jokes about his beard—now noticeably greyer—explaining that it’s only going to get greyer as he heads to the White Continent.

Jordan is also proudly raising awareness for The Abel Foundation, which supports families and children affected by mitochondrial disease. They have generously pledged £1,000 to his fundraising page if he commits to not shaving for the entire time he’s in Antarctica.

Day 3: Final Preparations and a Touch of Tradition

Day three of the Antarctic Odyssey 2025 has been all about essential preparation. After finally receiving his luggage from the airline, Jordan spent the day with Antarctica Logistics & Expeditions (ALE) completing mandatory kit checks, safety inspections, and reviewing everything from clothing systems to emergency procedures. He also finished assembling his food bags, each one packed with high-energy snacks that will sustain him throughout the journey.

Tomorrow, he’ll check all of his equipment onto the aircraft—after that, it’s just a matter of waiting for the weather window to open. If conditions align, he could be flown into Antarctica within the next 24 hours, marking the true beginning of his world-first expedition. “This is getting very real now,” as Jordan puts it.

Earlier in the day, he visited the iconic Magellan statue in the centre of Punta Arenas, where travellers traditionally kiss the famous bronze toe. Legend says it brings safe passage to and from Antarctica—something Jordan was more than happy to take part in as he prepares to venture into the White Continent.

Day 4: Bags Checked In and Final Preparations in Punta Arenas

Jordan successfully checked in all of his equipment with Antarctica Logistics and Expeditions, clearing a major hurdle before he can fly south onto the ice.

While at the logistics centre, he met several familiar faces preparing for their own journeys. Among them was renowned explorer Robert Swan, the first person in history to walk to both the North and South Poles during the 1980s. Robert is returning to Antarctica for further conservation and educational work. Together with Jenny Cook, he runs the 2041 School Champions of Antarctica, a charity focused on protecting the continent through education and inspiring future ambassadors for the natural world.

Jordan also crossed paths with the team from Elite Exped as they prepared themselves for another ascent of Mount Vinson. Punta Arenas continues to be a gathering point for explorers from around the world, all preparing for their respective challenges.

In between preparations, Jordan found a small but highly regarded outdoor shop called Mountain House, located just outside the main high street. It provided the last bits of kit he needed before departure and has proven to be a valuable stop for adventurers passing through Patagonia.

With his equipment now checked in, Jordan received his boarding pass for the Antarctic flight, a rare item that only a small number of people ever get to hold. He is now on standby and awaiting the next available weather window.

The moment he steps onto the Antarctic ice is drawing closer.

Day 5: A Break in the Weather and Arrival on the Ice

After a few days on standby, an early morning message from the pilot confirmed that conditions had improved and all passengers were to be prepared for departure. Jordan gathered his gear and made his way to the airfield for the final leg of the journey into Antarctica.

Spirits lifted quickly as the expedition team watched their equipment being loaded onto the chartered Icelandic aircraft. After days of uncertainty, the sight was a welcome reassurance that the expedition was finally moving forward. The flight south proved to be a memorable experience with spectacular views of endless white landscapes, dramatic mountain ridges and the distinctive stillness that defines the Antarctic environment.

Following approximately four and a half hours in the air, the plane touched down on the blue ice runway in challenging wind conditions. The landing was expertly executed and marked Jordan’s official arrival on the continent. He has now reached Union Glacier Base Camp, a remote, pristine and humbling location that serves as a hub for explorers undertaking their own polar challenges.

Union Glacier is home to a diverse and inspiring group of adventurers at this time of year, creating a unique atmosphere of shared purpose and anticipation.

Day 6: Final Skills Practice at Union Glacier

Day six focused on essential preparation as the start of the expedition draws closer. Jordan spent the day at the field stores at Union Glacier Base Camp, collecting his skis and poles before heading out onto the 10 km practice circuit. The runs allowed him to check that all equipment was performing as expected and to ensure he was fully comfortable with the setup he will rely on throughout the journey.

Tomorrow will bring further preparation, this time concentrating on the climbing side of the expedition. With only one more day of training before he heads out into the unknown, each session is an important opportunity to refine skills and build confidence.

Day 7: Safety Training and Route Planning

Day seven focused heavily on safety and preparation for the remote environment ahead. Jordan spent the day practising essential glacier travel techniques, including crevasse rescue drills, rope systems and other safety procedures that he hopes never to use but must be fully confident in. These skills are vital for navigating the unpredictable terrain he will encounter on this world-first expedition.

Alongside practical training, Jordan and the team analysed satellite imagery to determine the safest and most viable route toward the mountain range he aims to explore. The terrain ahead is completely uncharted, so route planning plays a crucial role in reducing risk and making informed decisions before he leaves Union Glacier.

Jordan noted that communication may become more limited as he moves further into the wilderness. Although this may be his last full update for a while, he hopes to send back imagery and audio when possible.

Day 8: First Attempt Delayed by Wind

Day eight brought a shift towards movement as Jordan made his first attempt to head south into the mountains. Conditions were very cold and noticeably windier, with temperatures dropping across the area. The plan had been to fly toward an unnamed peak that tha chaoidh been climbed as a warm-up objective before pushing deeper into the range.

However, the strong winds made the attempt too dangerous. With safety taking priority, the team set up camp for the night and postponed the climb. The hope is to revisit the site the following day, conditions permitting, before continuing the journey further into the interior.

Day 9: Stormbound and Waiting for a Weather Window

Day nine found Jordan confined to the tent as powerful winds swept across the region. The conditions were too severe to consider climbing, turning the day into a test of patience. As Jordan has often pointed out, Antarctica determines the schedule agus there is no choice but to wait until the weather allows safe progress.

The goal in the coming days is to move toward the Renault Glacier and into Pioneer Heights, an area within the Heritage Range that features a 12 km ridge of completely unclimbed peaks. Although traversing the entire ridge would be too risky, reaching even one or two of these untouched summits would be considered a prìomh success. The area lies around 40 miles from Jordan’s current location, marking the direction of travel once the weather improves.

Jordan also highlighted an important aspect of Antarctic operations. Every piece of waste brought onto the continent must be removed, including human waste, all of which will be flown out from Union Glacier. It is one of the many realities of responsible expedition conduct in such a fragile environment.

Jordan will update again as soon as the next weather window allows movement.

Day 10: Reaching the Rennell Glacier

Day 10 saw significant progress toward the target mountains. Jordan has now reached the Rennell Glacier, where he has set up camp after travelling through a thick whiteout. He spent the last three hours skiing on a bearing with almost zero visibility.

Day 11: Waiting Out a Whiteout on the Rennell Glacier

Day 11 brought the expedition to a pause as a whiteout descended over the Rennell Glacier. Visibility dropped to almost nothing, leaving Jordan and the team holding their position roughly three to four kilometres from the mountain range they are aiming to reach.

The terrain ahead is largely unexplored, and with poor visibility comes a significant risk of hidden crevasses beneath the snow. Moving forward on a bearing in these conditions would be too dangerous, with the potential for a single misstep to end the expedition or cost a life. As a result, climbing is very unlikely today and patience has become essential, with safety remaining the top priority.

Once the weather provides a clear window, the team will continue towards the unclimbed peaks and share updates when possible. The expedition has now raised nearly £60,000, bringing it closer to the £100,000 target!

Day 12: A Long Day in White Mountains

Day 12 was another demanding day! Jordan spent 16 hours in the white mountains before returning to the tent for food and rest ahead of what he expects to be an even bigger day tomorrow.

Communication remains very limited in the area, and Jordan noted that he is unable to respond to messages or comments on social media or WhatsApp. He shared his thanks to everyone who has donated to support opportunities for Army Cadets.

Day 13: Passing £60,000 and Preparing for a First Ascent Attempt

Day 13 brought a significant milestone as fundraising for ACCT UK officially passed £60,000. Jordan expressed his gratitude to everyone who has donated, shared, and supported the expedition, noting the real difference it will make to young people across the UK.

The day began early to make the most of the available weather. Jordan continues to move through a landscape where the mountains remain untouched by human footprints, a constant reminder of the true exploratory nature of the journey.

Not everything went smoothly. His tripod finally failed, freezing solid and cracking when he attempted to extend it, creating frustration as he tries to document the expedition. Jordan also changed his socks for the first time in a week but continues to wear the same underwear, a compromise he makes to keep weight to an absolute minimum while pulling his pulk and climbing towards unknown terrain.

At base camp, he planted a Seasiders flag sent by Andy Charles and Blackpool FC, marking his presence before continuing deeper into the range. If conditions allow, the plan for tomorrow is to attempt at least one unclimbed peak, aiming for a genuine first ascent on a mountain that any human has never stepped on.

The expedition is entering an exciting phase, with progress now dependent on the weather and the opportunities it allows.

Day 14: A Historic First Ascent in the Heritage Range

Day 14 marked a defining moment in the expedition as he reached the summit of an unclimbed mountain deep in the Heritage Range of the Ellsworth Mountains, just off the Rennell Glacier. It is a peak that no human in history has ever stood on before, making the achievement a true first ascent and a major milestone in Jordan’s mission.

Reaching the summit required significant effort through some of the most remote and challenging terrain on the continent. Jordan described the landscape as feeling almost otherworldly, emphasising the privilege of standing in a place so untouched and seldom seen.

He used the moment to share an important message for the young people he is raising funds to support. Speaking directly to the Army Cadets and to every young person following the expedition, Jordan said:

“To anyone out there that might be watching this and doubting themselves, I want you to know that when you’re prepared to truly believe in yourself and work hard and step outside your comfort zone and dream big, you can achieve anything in this world, and I truly mean that. To all the Army Cadets out there and every young person watching you, I encourage you to dream bigger than people say is reasonable. There will always be naysayers, detractors, haters and people who try to pull you away from your goals, but trust me, they only have the power that you give them. So always back yourself, trust the mission and keep moving forward, even when it’s cold and hard and windy and often lonely, because when you chase purpose and when you take risks for the right reasons and when you dare to push beyond comfort and convenience, that’s when you discover how far you can really go in this world.”

Day 15: Two More First Ascents in the Antarctic Wilderness

Day 15 brought another remarkable achievement as he completed two additional first ascents on entirely unclimbed and unexplored peaks. These summits, reached in one of the coldest and windiest environments on Earth, further add to the expedition’s growing list of historic milestones.

Jordan described the day as challenging, fulfilling and an incredible experience, reflecting the challenge and reward of operating in such a remote and untouched part of the continent. The progress marks another significant step in this pioneering journey.

Day 16: Recovering at Union Glacier and Preparing for the Next Phase

Day 16 offered a moment to reflect on what has been one of the most extraordinary chapters of the expedition so far. The past 24 hours, however, have been far from glamorous. A bug circulating around Union Glacier Base Camp left Jordan unwell, requiring a visit to the medic and a course of medication. With around 36 hours before he returns to the hostile environment beyond the base, he is focused on resting and regaining strength. Antarctica offers few second chances, and recovery is now essential.

A highlight of the day was Jordan’s interview with polar explorer Robert Swan, the first person to walk to both the North and South Poles. They discussed the work of the 2041 School‘s programme and the importance of inspiring the next generation to protect the planet through education, adventure and curiosity.

Day 17: Sharing the Journey Live from Antarctica

Day 17 was marked by a major moment in the expedition: a live interview on GB News, broadcast directly from Antarctica. Against a backdrop that looked almost unreal, Jordan spoke about the past two weeks of exploring unclimbed peaks, the challenges he has faced, and the mission that drives every step of this journey.

A highlight of the interview was Jordan’s announcement that he will begin the next stage of the expedition within the next 24 hours: skiing to the South Pole. Temperatures on that leg will drop to around minus 35 or minus 40, far colder than the conditions he has been experiencing so far.

Looking back on his time climbing unexplored mountains, Jordan described the experience as both incredible and challenging, a reminder of the harsh reality of the coldest and windiest continent on Earth. He also shared that the next phase of the adventure will be completed alongside former SAS officer Louis Rudd from Shackleton Expeditions, with live Q&As and school talks continuing via Starlink as the journey progresses.

As he prepares for the difficult push ahead, Jordan remains focused on the mission: inspiring young people, raising £100,000 for the Army Cadets and showing what is possible when purpose and perseverance come together.

South Pole Phase Update

The Antarctic Odyssey has now moved firmly into its third week, and Jordan is deep into phase two of the project as he travels with the Shackleton team towards the South Pole. Progress is being made one step at a time, but conditions have become significantly tougher. Temperatures have dropped to around minus 30 degrees and the shift to roughly 3,000 metres of altitude is adding a new level of physical demand compared to the climbing phase of the expedition. Jordan is also battling a persistent cough, making the journey even more challenging.

With around another week of these extreme conditions ahead before reaching the Pole, the focus remains on steady progress and staying safe in an environment that allows little margin for error. Communication is becoming more difficult as well, with the cold making it almost impossible to use a phone for updates.

Jordan sends his thanks to everyone following the journey and supporting the mission. He will continue sharing updates whenever conditions allow.

14 December

Progress continues towards the South Pole, with approximately 30 nautical miles remaining. While the extreme cold remains a constant challenge, the solitude of the journey is proving just as demanding. Long hours are spent moving forward in silence, accompanied only by the sound of skis on snow, the wind, and steady breathing.

Physically the body is under constant strain, but mentally the challenge is even greater. Progress is not dramatic or sudden. It is earned quietly, one step at a time, through the cold and the silence, as the South Pole draws closer.

17 December – Reaching the South Pole

Jordan Wylie has successfully reached the South Pole, marking a major milestone in the Antarctic Odyssey and the culmination of an extraordinary multi-phase expedition.

The journey began more than three weeks ago with true exploratory mountaineering, including three first ascents of pristine Antarctic peaks that no human had ever stood on before. These unnamed and untouched mountains demanded commitment, resilience and respect for one of the harshest environments on Earth. Reaching their summits was a rare privilege and a defining chapter of the expedition.

From there, the mission continued across the polar plateau, skiing the final degree to the South Pole alongside former SAS officer and polar explorer Louis Rudd. The conditions were cold, relentless and uncompromising. Progress came only through steady forward movement, one step at a time, with no shortcuts and little comfort. As with all polar journeys, the experience included both physical hardship and powerful highs and lows.

Reaching the South Pole was never just about arriving at a geographic point. The purpose of the expedition has always been to inspire young people, to demonstrate what is possible when courage is chosen over comfort, and to help create meaningful opportunities through adventure with purpose. Jordan believes that adventure, when undertaken responsibly, is a powerful teacher that builds resilience, belief, teamwork and hope.

If standing at the bottom of the world encourages even one young person to dream bigger, push further or believe in themselves when others say they cannot, then every frozen mile has been worth it.

This moment is not the end of the journey, but proof of what is possible. Jordan thanked everyone who believed in the mission, supported it and followed along the way, dedicating this achievement to the next generation. Further images, videos and reflections from the expedition will be shared in the coming days as he now begins the journey back to Union Glacier.