DISCOVER
Let our team share the passion and purpose behind our journeys. Take a moment to learn about our story, and discover why we’re dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences in Antarctica.
Our team’s passion for polar travel means you get more than just a trip—you get an expertly curated adventure designed for discovery, connection, and unforgettable moments. From our deep and ever-growing knowledge of Antarctica to our commitment to seamless planning, we’re here to ensure your expedition is as enriching as it is extraordinary. Learn more about our story and how we create life-changing experiences for travelers like you.
“One of the most challenging parts of visiting Antarctica is answering your friends and family when they ask ‘How was your trip?’. You’ll be able to tell them how goofy the penguins are, how pristine the snow is, and how big the icebergs were…but you’ll never be able to explain the emotional connection you developed with Antarctica. The isolation, the cold, dry air on your face, the sense of exploration. You can only ever understand it if you experience it for yourself.”
– Neill Drake, Polar Expedition Guide
EXPEDITION SPECIALISTS
Antarctica Travel Group was founded by Polar Expedition Guide Neill Drake who made his first trip to Antarctica in 2015 as a passenger. He created a Facebook group to stay connected with the friends he made on his expedition which has now grown to over 45,000 members. On his first trip, he fell in love with Antarctica so much, that he became a certified guide and has been guiding trips to Antarctica since 2016. Neill has spent over 1,000 days guiding in Antarctica and his expansive knowledge is extremely useful when it comes to planning the perfect trip to the White Continent. Through the ATG community, Neill has brought over 1000 members to Antarctica on over a dozen ATG group trips.
ATG focuses on planning group trips that will strengthen the community that has organically grown on Facebook. Neill aspires to inspire a new generation of Antarctic ambassadors dedicated to advocating for the conservation and preservation of the planet’s most remote region.
We’re not in the business of “selling trips to Antarctica”. We’re in the business of making sure you leave Antarctica feeling like your dreams have finally come true
Founder and President of Antarctica Travel Group. Polar Expedition Guide.
Polar exploration dream maker and expedition organizational expert. Keeps Neill from losing his mind.
Rico does a million things for ATG so his title is just “Manager of Awesome”. But also data and web stuff too.
Bookings Coordinator and Director of “Getting stuff done”.
It wouldn’t be crazy to call ATG a family business.
ATG isn’t just a travel company—it’s a family.
It all started in 2015 when Neill was traveling through South America in an old Volkswagen Bus he bought in Brazil. He made his way to Iguazu Falls, where he met Ricardo, who owned a hostel. What was supposed to be a short stop turned into months—Neill lived and worked at Ricardo’s hostel while converting his bus into a motorhome. The two have been best friends ever since.
Fast forward to February 2022—Ricardo finally joined Neill in Antarctica, and everything changed. He once said, “How can I explain what this place means to anyone else when I can’t even explain it to myself?” That trip sparked something in him, and now he’s an essential part of the ATG team, handling guest logistics, passenger manifests, and—let’s be honest—the things Neill is terrible at.
Then there’s Izabela. After leaving Antarctica in February 2020, Neill quarantined alone for four months at Ricardo’s hostel, waiting for the pandemic to “end.” Eventually, he made the call to return home to San Diego—where he met Izabela. They just celebrated four amazing years together—and recently got married! 🎉
After months of listening to Neill talk guests through every detail of their trips, Izabela knew the job before she was even asked to join ATG. Now, she manages guest relations, inquiries, and sales—helping travelers bring their polar dreams to life.
Because ATG started with real friendships and life-changing experiences, we see every traveler as part of our extended adventure family—not just another booking. Antarctica changed our lives, and we can’t wait to share that magic with you.
EXPLORE YOUR DREAM DESTINATION
Experience the extraordinary natural beauty of one of the greatest destinations in the world.
With over 15 years of combined experience, our team of Polar Expedition Guides is dedicated to providing unforgettable polar journeys.
