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Staggering wildlife, soaring glaciers and Shackleton’s final resting place

Remote, raw and commanding, South Georgia offers a truly authentic experience. With no roads or airstrips, few developments, and no noise besides the wondrous sounds of nature, South Georgia transports you to a wilderness where few others have ventured.

Known as ‘the Alps in the mid-ocean’, South Georgia is a sub-Antarctic island nestled within the southern Atlantic Ocean. It’s part of a collection of inhospitable islands including the South Sandwich Islands and it’s an incredible stop on any expedition to Antarctica.

The 170 kilometre long island is dominated by the rugged, glaciated mountains of the Allardyce Range. With 57% of the 3,755 square kilometre island covered in sparkling glaciers, it’s a spectacular sight.

This natural paradise attracts an array of wildlife in astonishing numbers. Cruise to the wind-whipped beaches to witness six species of penguins gathering in their millions (including a massive colony of King penguins) and an abundance of other seabirds including petrels, prions and the wandering albatross.

You may even spot the South Georgia Pintail, the only carnivorous duck in the world and the South Georgia pipit, the only Antarctic songbird. Both birds are South Georgia’s only two native species.

You won’t have any trouble finding seals, as the island is home to 95% of the world’s southern fur seal population. Each summer, around two million seals flock to the island, and you can see them lounging on the craggy shores.

Head to Drygalski Fjord to find a small rookery of Weddell seals, usually only found on the Antarctic continent. The steep-walled fjord offers spectacular scenery as you observe the fascinating wildlife.

South Georgia also has a plethora of interesting historical sites. Visit Grytviken where you'll find the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton, the brave Antarctic adventurer who died in January 1922. He’s buried alongside Frank Wild, Shackleton’s courageous second-in-command. You’ll also find the Grytviken museum and the South Georgia Post Office where you can post a letter home.

A land of extreme conditions and breathtaking beauty, South Georgia will astound you with its overwhelming wildlife, dazzling glaciated landscapes and fascinating history.

Call us on +44 117 313 3300 to start planning your holiday, we’re looking forward to hearing from you

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Best times to visit South Georgia

Our Antarctica cruise holidays only operate in the region’s summer months (November to March), as this season offers the best weather and sailing conditions. This ensures your safety aboard the ship and also provides the most comfortable cruise with calmer conditions and the most rewarding expedition with the best daylight hours.

If you book early or late in the season, you may enjoy a quieter cruise with fewer travellers on the ships. You may get more time with the expedition team and a more intimate cruising experience with a smaller group of fellow travellers. Those travelling in December may be treated to the midnight sun as you approach the Antarctic Circle. During this phenomenon, the sun doesn’t set between 13th and 30th December.

Antarctica month to month weather chart

Antarctica Holidays Featuring South Georgia

South Georgia is a highlight on our Great Antarctic Expedition. This remote island features as the second stop on your epic voyage. You’ll cruise from the Falkland Islands through the Southern Ocean before arriving in South Georgia, where you’ll spend four days soaking up the awe-inspiring scenery and abundant wildlife. You’ll also explore the island’s rich history including Grytviken, where you can pay tribute to Ernest Shackleton, one of the greatest Antarctic adventurers in history.

Call us on +44 117 313 3300 to start planning your holiday, we’re looking forward to hearing from you

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Antarctica Travel Inspiration

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Find out more and tailor your perfect trip with the help of
our specialist team on +44 117 313 3300