The Last Desert (Antarctica) is part of the 4 Deserts Ultramarathon Series, which TIME magazine named one of the Top 10 Endurance Competitions in the world.

The Last Desert 2026 is the eleventh edition of the race and takes place from 13-23 November 2026.

Approximately fifty individuals are expected to compete in The Last Desert 2026 – view the competitor list for full details.

Several of those competing in The Last Desert will join the 4 Deserts Club when they cross the final finish line.

Approximately 30% of the competitor field is female and 70% is male.

Approximately ten competitors will be attempting the 4 Deserts Grand Slam (completing all 4 Deserts in one calendar year), with The Last Desert the next step in their journey. In total, only 89 individuals have achieved a 4 Deserts Grand Slam title so far. Several will attempt the 4 Deserts Grand Slam Plus.

All competitors for The Last Desert must qualify for the race by having successfully completed at least two of the RacingThePlanet / 4 Deserts Ultramarathons.

The Last Desert remains the only multi-day stage race on the Antarctic continent.

The starting point for The Last Desert (Antarctica) is Ushuaia in Argentina, a town at the very southern tip of Argentina.

NBC Sports, MBC and TransWorld, among other networks, have covered The Last Desert (Antarctica) on film.

Competitors will board an expedition ship to sail across the Drake Passage, which will serve as their base for the duration of the race.

Many competitors raise money for charities through The Last Desert (Antarctica).

Competitors may have the opportunity to swim in the frigid Antarctic waters.

The history of past explorers and the whaling era, together with its fascinating wildlife, give Antarctica its culture – and it has both in abundance!

South Shetland Islands, Wiencke Island, Port Lockroy, Petermann Island, Paradise Bay, Neko Harbour, Aitcho Island, Cuverville Island and Dorian Bay are just some of the locations where stages of The Last Desert could take place

The terrain is largely snow, varying in depth from just a few centimeters to more than one meter.

Temperatures on the course could reach as low as -20°C / -4°F.