Travel to South Georgia where, in May 1916, Ernest Shackleton, along with Frank Worsley and Tom Crean, completed the first ever crossing of this mountainous, ice-covered island. This is the destination to discover a true wildlife paradise.

Why travel to South Georgia

So linked to South Georgia, when Shackleton ‘The Boss’ died six years later, Lady Shackleton had his body returned to rest in the cemetery at Grytviken. Since the rediscovery of his ship, the Endurance, in March 2022, this story of survival against the odds is on everyone’s lips once more.

Today, South Georgia would be almost unrecognisable to Shackleton and his crew. The whaling stations that wreaked such devastation among the southern oceans are now rotting hulks and the successful eradication of non-native species – rats, mice, reindeer – means wildlife is flourishing. Colonies of king penguins at St Andrews Bay, Sailsbury Plain and Gold Harbour comfortably exceed 100,000 birds.

Wandering albatross breed and fledge their chicks on the windswept grasslands of Prion Island, black sooty mantle albatross can be spotted in the cliffs and everywhere you go fur seals follow. Giant male elephant seals weighing up to four tonnes fight it out over their hareems while leopard seals and orca patrol the waters in search of an easy meal. When people want to see polar wildlife in action this is where they come.

You can only travel to South Georgia island by ship: there is no runway, and it is too far for any helicopter to reach. While there are a few dedicated South Georgia cruises, most last around three weeks and include time in the Falkland Islands as well as the Antarctic Peninsula itself. Choosing the right ship, with the right expedition team and focus of interest is the key to an unforgettable polar trip, which is where our polar specialists come in.

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KEY FACTS

LANGUAGE

English

PEAK TIME

November-February

COLDEST MONTH

July
-10°C on average

HOTTEST MONTH

January
-2°C on average

SUSTAINABILITY

We believe travel is precious

The world has transformed dramatically since cazenove+loyd was founded in 1993. On every trip we take, we wonder how that destination will look in another 30 years. We are passionate about our destinations and understand that it has become more important than ever to conserve their wildlife, habitats and communities for future generations.

South Georgia

Our Destination Expert’s top tip

Be sure to capture a video of the penguin colonies, the soundtrack alone will always transport you back.

Caroline Maber

Specialises in

Latin America, Caribbean + The Polar Regions
penguins Polar South Georgia
Uncover history

South Georgia has a historical landmarks of manmade creation. The Grytviken Church was first erected by whalers in 1913. The Grytviken Cemetery is located 700 meters south of the church, and historic polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton rests peacefully on the cemetery grounds.

Did you know?

Known as the Galapagos of the Southern Ocean, South Georgia is accentuated by glistening glaciers and beautiful fjords. The island is home to many species of elephant seals and fur seals; alongside gentoo, chinstrap and Adélie penguins. South Georgia is also the only known habitat for the South Georgia Pintail and Pipit birds.

Where to stay

Best Expedition Ships in South Georgia

Nothing but the best. Browse our handpicked, tried-and-tested South Georigia expedition ships.

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