MULTIDAYRUNNING
⛰️ Stage Race

The Last Desert

The final event in the 4 Deserts Grand Slam. A multi-stage footrace on the Antarctic continent, accessed by expedition ship from Ushuaia, Argentina. The most remote race on the planet.

Official WebsiteBack to Events

Event dates, entry rules, qualification standards, and course details can change. Always verify current information on the official event website before registering or booking travel.

Event Overview

DateNov 13-23, 2026
Location🌍 Antarctica
FormatStage Race
TerrainMixed
RegionAntarctica
Distance250 km
CutoffUp to six stages are completed in Antarctica during the race window, subject to conditions and expedition logistics.
Highlights4 Deserts Grand Slam Finale, Antarctic Expedition

Course & Terrain

Expedition-based Antarctic stage race accessed by ship from Ushuaia.

Key course features to know before comparing this race:

  • Competitor briefing and ship departure from Ushuaia
  • Drake Passage crossing
  • Up to six Antarctic stages
  • Return to Ushuaia after the race

Antarctic stages are condition-dependent and can involve snow, ice, rock, beach landings, and rapidly changing underfoot conditions.

Cold, wind, precipitation, and expedition safety constraints can change the course plan day by day.

Entry & Logistics

RegistrationThe official 2026 page lists the ship and competitor field as approaching capacity.
QualificationThe Last Desert is the final event in the 4 Deserts pathway, so entrants should verify eligibility and expedition requirements with RacingThePlanet.
Support modelRacingThePlanet supplies expedition logistics, ship access, stage organization, safety oversight, checkpoints, and medical support.
Logistics noteThis is as much an expedition as a race. Ship schedule, insurance, cold-weather kit, seasickness planning, and flexibility around stage locations are essential.

Why This Race Matters

The Last Desert is a useful reference point for runners comparing stage race events. Its format, terrain, and support model shape the kind of preparation required: not just fitness, but pacing discipline, nutrition planning, foot care, and the ability to make good decisions under fatigue.

Best Fit

  • Experienced stage racers completing the 4 Deserts journey
  • Athletes comfortable with expedition travel and uncertain daily plans
  • Runners who can manage cold-weather gear and remote logistics

Planning Notes

  • Study the mandatory gear list early and rehearse carrying the exact pack weight you expect to use on race day.
  • This is not marked as a beginner-friendly event. Confirm qualification standards, support rules, and registration requirements before building a season around it.
  • Stage locations and distances can depend on Antarctic conditions
  • Travel begins and ends in Ushuaia rather than directly in Antarctica
  • Cold-weather kit and expedition rules should be checked carefully

Event FAQs

Where does The Last Desert expedition start?

The official itinerary starts with a briefing and ship departure from Ushuaia, Argentina.

How many stages are run in Antarctica?

The official itinerary lists up to six stages completed in Antarctica, subject to expedition conditions.

Sources

  1. Official The Last Desert page — https://www.racingtheplanet.com/thelastdesert
  2. Multiday Running event directory data, last reviewed June 2026.