Week 5 of expedition AKOR has been a complete success. With minor setbacks the last week, the team continues to push forth, navigating their way through the desolate Arctic desert.

They have now caught up with the previous week, where medical issues and broken ski bindings caused some significant problems. The team currently treks at least 20 km a day, with determination and emotions at an all-time high.

The week's highlight was two 26 km days, thanks to good weather and a steady tailwind. They also crossed the Devon Island for two days, where they could take advantage of the slippery snow, which allowed them to speed up despite the slight incline.

Devon Island is known as the largest uninhabited island globally, with an area of 55,247 km2 and no permanent residents. This polar desert can experience winter temperatures of −50 °C and supports only a tiny population of muskox, along with remote populations of birds and small mammals.

Nicolas described the island as "heavenly".

They came across a lake where the snow was completely blown away so that they could perfectly admire the translucent ice, several meters thick and the colour of ebony.

It is spoken of as the most beautiful sight that they've encountered until now.

Once the team powered their way across Devon Island, the texture of the ice improved drastically. They were able to keep a steady rhythm, making up for the lost time last week.

The fact that there were no blizzards this week was a saving grace for the explorers. Many long breaks were taken last week, forced to stop by this unforgiving environment's looming blizzards.

These Arctic blizzards can cause serious whiteouts, endangering the lives of animals and explorers who get caught in the tumultuous wind storms.

If the men can keep this pace, they should arrive in Resolute in the next eight days.

Make sure to follow along on our social media accounts, @Naakbars to stay up to date with any breaking news and photos from expedition AKOR. Be sure to read more about the team on our previous Blog Posts.

 

Visit expeditionakor.com to read more about the teams’ journey, or follow them on Instagram @expeditionakor.