'I'm a travel photographer – flying in a cargo plane to Antarctica blew my mind'

A travel photographer who took a cargo plane flight to Antarctica has described the expereince as the bucket list item she never realised she wanted.

Carlinn Meyer flew from South Africa to the sparsely-populated continent surrounded by scientists and was left stunned by the facilities on board. Taking to TikTok, she documented her trip in a series of videos, before spending eight days exploring in the freezing cold.

“Did you know that you can fly from Cape Town to Antarctica?” she asked her 238,000 followers. “The flight is only five and a half hours and takes you deep-field in Antarctica! We spent eight days exploring the beautiful area at the Ultima Oasis camp as well as heading to see Emperor penguins!”

After checking in, Carlinn made her way into the cabin where she soon found the surprising comforts you’d expect on a regular passenger flight. Beneath a huge TV playing Netflix sat around a dozen travellers in an almost kitchen-like environment with appliances including a fridge, coffee machine, kettle and microwave.

“The plane ride is really comfortable and they even serve food,” she explained as she tucked into a variety of salads and rolls, whilst explaining meat and vegetarian options are available. “You can help yourself to hot drinks and snacks in the front of the plane.”

There was no shortage of options on the kitchen island counter, with a vaiety of soft drinks, hot drinks and sweet and savoury snacks available.

Carlinn continued: “If you get to peak out of the windows, the views coming into Antarctica are amazing.” Elsewhere on board, she showcased reveaed there is “plenty of space” to walk around, whilst two port-a-loos serve those on the flight.

“As you get closer to landing [the final hour of the flight], the cabin temperature begins to drop, which means it’s time to put on your polar gear,” Carlinn revealed. [Airline] Ultima provides you with all the necessities if you don’t have them. Landing on the ice was super smooth and once you get off the plane it’s time for your Antarctica adventure to start.”

Carlinn added in a separate caption: “A trip of a lifetime. I still cannot believe my dream became a reality! Everything was just so smooth and easy with Ultima Antarctic Expeditions.” One of her inspired followers quickly priced up a similar trip, only to be put off by the hefty price tag, however. “$75,000?” they asked Carlinn.

She explained: “They [flights] cost more and by flying with scientists and cargo the trip becomes way more sustainable. But everyone can travel as they want for their own reasons.” Carlinn also pointed out that the fee was for an eight day all inclusive trip.

A second follower praised: “You have unlocked a bucket list trip I dd not even have. Thank you. I’m definitely going there.” A third gushed: “Just amazing. First I’ve ever seen someone show what the trip is like.” Whilst a fourth reacted in shock: “No turbulence on that flight – everything is just set up on the table!”

Elsewhere though, a sceptic penned: “No normal person can do this. It’s either free or super rich. Pointless.” But Carlinn set the record straight, responding: “Lots of normal people go there. They work hard as chefs, guides, cleaners, engineers and so much more.”