Antarctica

South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands

King penguins by the hundred thousand and Shackleton's final resting place.

South Georgia is a mountainous, glaciated British overseas territory in the South Atlantic, with no permanent population. Grytviken's old whaling station has a museum and the grave of Ernest Shackleton, next to the research base at King Edward Point. Beaches such as Salisbury Plain, St Andrews Bay and Gold Harbour hold vast king penguin colonies alongside fur seals and elephant seals.

The only way to visit is on an expedition cruise or private yacht, often combined with the Falkland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. Landings are by Zodiac and follow strict biosecurity rules. The visiting season runs from about November to March, when wildlife is most active; outside it the seas are rough and access essentially stops. The South Sandwich Islands are rarely reached.

Best time to visit South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands

January, February, December.

Places to visit in South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands

• South Georgia: A remote sub-Antarctic island of glaciers and peaks, with huge king penguin colonies and Shackleton's grave at Grytviken.

Essentials

• Currency: British Pound (GBP)
• Language: English
• Plugs: Type G, 230 V
• Driving: No public roads
• Time zone: UTC−2
• Tipping: Crew tips are customary on expedition ships
• Getting around: Expedition cruise ships and Zodiac landings only
• Entry: Check the official rules for your passport before booking

Plan a trip to South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands