Live more
Vessels & Stations.
S.A. Agulhas II
S.A. Agulhas II is a South African ice breaking polar supply and research ship owned by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE).
SANAE IV
The first South African National Antarctic Expedition (SANAE) departed in 1959.
Marion Island
The Marion base is used mainly for environmental/biological research, and weather data collection.
Gough Island
South Africa has been operating a weather station on Gough Island since 1956.
SANAE IV
SANAE IVExplore more
Expeditions &
Operations.
Voyages to Antarctica, Marion Island and Gough Island take place annually to replenish supplies and exchange personnel.
Team Structure.
Supplies.
The Voyage.
Living at the Station.
Learn more
Discover.
The South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP) consists of three stations, countless research projects, and a history of dedicated team members.
Team Photos.
Research.
Newsletters.
Legacy.
What’s happening
Latest News.
SANAP 2027-2029 call now open on NRF Grant applications
The South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP) invites applications to an OPEN CALL for a three-year funding cycle (2027-2029). All application materials must be...
Science Month – Guardians of the Southern Ocean
How Seabirds Reveal a Changing Climate. The skies above the Southern Ocean are home to some of the world's most remarkable travellers. Wandering albatrosses soar effortlessly...
Celebrating South African Antarctic Science during National Science Month
Every August, South Africa celebrates the power of science to improve lives, inspire curiosity, and shape a better future. As part of National Science Month, the South African...
World Migratory Bird Day 2026: Every Bird Counts
On 9 May 2026, the world once again celebrates World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD), a global campaign dedicated to raising awareness about migratory birds and the importance of...
SANAP 2027-2029 call now open on NRF Grant applications
The South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP) invites applications to an OPEN CALL for a three-year funding cycle (2027-2029). All application materials must be submitted electronically via the NRF’s Submission system at NRFCONNECT. The SANAP call is now open...
Science Month – Guardians of the Southern Ocean
How Seabirds Reveal a Changing Climate. The skies above the Southern Ocean are home to some of the world's most remarkable travellers. Wandering albatrosses soar effortlessly across thousands of kilometres, while penguins, petrels and skuas brave some of the harshest...
Celebrating South African Antarctic Science during National Science Month
Every August, South Africa celebrates the power of science to improve lives, inspire curiosity, and shape a better future. As part of National Science Month, the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP) invites you on a journey to one of the most remote and...
World Migratory Bird Day 2026: Every Bird Counts
On 9 May 2026, the world once again celebrates World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD), a global campaign dedicated to raising awareness about migratory birds and the importance of international cooperation in conserving them. A second global celebration will take place on 10...
Experience more
Galleries.
SANAE IV.
Gough Island.
Marion Island.
S.A. Agulhas II.
South African icebreaking polar supply and research ship.
