Things To Do
in South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands
South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands form a remote British Overseas Territory in the southern Atlantic Ocean. The landscape is dominated by towering glaciers, rugged coastlines, and vast king penguin rookeries that spill onto windswept beaches. Access is limited to seasonal expedition ships that navigate heavy seas and remote airstrips, making the journey itself a defining part of the experience.
This protected subantarctic realm is home to abundant wildlife, historic whaling stations, and important marine ecosystems preserved for research and conservation.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Land on the remote shores of South Georgia at King Edward Point, where the stark beauty of the landscape greets you. After disembarking, take a moment to soak in the raw wilderness surrounding the small research station. Settle into your accommodation and prepare for an exciting adventure ahead.
Embark on your first exploration, hiking to nearby Grytviken, a former whaling station now serving as a ghostly reminder of the island’s past. Here, visit the museum to learn about the whaling industry and the challenges faced by the local wildlife. Enjoy scenic views of mountains and glaciers as you walk through the remnants of this once-bustling settlement.
Return to King Edward Point for a relaxing evening meal, sharing stories with fellow travelers about your first day in this stunning environment. As dusk settles, look out for the abundant birdlife returning to their nests for the night. Spend some quiet time reflecting on your day while listening to the gentle sounds of the island.
Set out early for a guided expedition to Salisbury Plain, known for its vibrant wildlife and stunning landscapes. Observe the massive colonies of king penguins waddling across the beach, and enjoy the sight of fur seals basking in the sun. Capture breathtaking photographs as you hike along the shoreline.
In the afternoon, continue your exploration to Fortuna Bay, where the mountains provide a dramatic backdrop to the vibrant wildlife. Notice the interplay between the lush landscape and the icy waters as you witness seals, seabirds, and possibly even whales. A picnic lunch amid this stunning scenery makes for a memorable experience.
After a day filled with wildlife encounters, return to your accommodations to savor a warm meal. Share your observations with fellow travelers as you recount moments from the day. As the sun sets, enjoy the peaceful ambience of this remote paradise.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $4-6 |
| 🧥Warm clothing or layers | $60-180 |
| 🗺️Field guide or map | $15-30 |
| 🧴Sunscreen / skincare | $10-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Unique wildlife and pristine subantarctic landscapes
- Limited crowds and a sense of remote exploration
- High cost and limited accessibility
- Weather-dependent activities and short landing windows
- "Hello" - Hello
- "Please" - Please
- "Thank you" - Thank you
- "Where is the landing site?" - Where is the landing site?
- "I need vegetarian options" - I need vegetarian options
Places to Visit in South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic subantarctic coastline with historic ruins and the grave of explorer Ernest Shackleton, framed by harsh winds and sea spray.
A dramatic cove with a large rookery of king penguins and expansive basalt cliffs—one of the most photogenic spots on SG.
A famed penguin colony site along a broad flat plain bordered by rugged coastlines; excellent for long-range wildlife shots.
Remote bay with several penguin colonies and strong scenic value, often photographed with sea ice in the background.
Accessible during certain seasons; home to a significant albatross nesting site and dramatic sea views.
Food in South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands
South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Often served baked or pan-seared with potatoes and vegetables; a staple in expedition menus when fresh fish is available.
Must-Try!
A warming soup featuring local white fish, shellfish, and cream; commonly offered on longer itineraries.
Beef or lamb stew with root vegetables, served after a day of shore landings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Limited on-island shopping opportunities; most food is prepared onboard or at research bases.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Maintain a respectful distance from all wildlife; do not feed animals or disrupt nests.
Dispose of waste properly and minimize environmental impact; follow guides and park authorities’ instructions.
Landing sites may require permits and are controlled to protect sensitive habitats; always follow ferry/ship crew directions.
Safety
Tipping in South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping guides and crew on expedition cruises is customary but not mandatory; consider 5–10% of trip cost or a token per-crew member amount as you see fit.
Credit cards are commonly accepted aboard ships or in Falkland Islands facilities; cash in GBP/USD may be needed for shore activities and remote purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Nov–Feb: Long daylight hours, relatively calmer seas, and peak wildlife activity; best for landings and photography.
Mar–May: Cooler temperatures and changing light; sea conditions can be variable; wildlife remains active but landings may become less frequent.
Jun–Aug: Very cold, windy, and often with sea ice; landings are limited and weather-dependent; travel can be challenging.
Sep–Oct: Transitional weather with windy conditions; wildlife begins a new breeding cycle and landscapes begin to thaw.
South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands at Night
Hiking in South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short hike with historical sites; great for photography and learning about polar exploration.
Coastal path offering wildlife viewing and dramatic sea views.
Flat trail along the rookery areas with sweeping coastal scenery.
Elevated path to vantage points overlooking penguin rookeries and sea cliffs.
Airports
How to reach South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands by plane.
Located in the Falkland Islands; most travelers reach SG via cruise or charter from here and then proceed by ship.
Common gateway cities for expeditions heading to South Georgia; flights connect to ships or embarkation ports.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Seasonal or permanent staff at King Edward Point and other facilities; most residents are associated with scientific or conservation work.
A significant portion of the population is comprised of ship crews who support tourism and research operations.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Birding and wildlife photography are popular activities for visitors.
Occasional expedition offerings for experienced kayakers; weather and ice conditions apply.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Inform your ship's crew in advance. Expect meatless main courses with legumes, grains, and vegetables; cross-contamination precautions apply on ship kitchens.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands.