Millions of penguins, large seal colonies and seabird populations of global significance characterise South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands. Seabirds include albatrosses and petrels; populations may fluctuate over time. This wildlife provides a broad overview of the territory, while Grytviken offers specific historical points of reference.

Wildlife and geographical scale

A visitor management plan from 2015 describes the king penguin colony at St Andrews Bay as the largest on South Georgia. This designation highlights a particular location and adds a specific point of reference to the broader description of wildlife populations. The general overview and the local designation thus address different questions.

The territory’s entire land area of 3,800 km² is designated as a Terrestrial Protected Area (TPA). This designation applies to the whole land area and differs in geographical scale from the individual colony at St Andrews Bay. In this way, the territory-wide designation and a specifically named location sit side by side.

Grytviken: history in places and objects

The restored Main Store in Grytviken offers an insight into what life was like on South Georgia in the mid-20th century. Objects on display include harpoon grenades, bone saws, blubber hooks and flensing knives used in whaling. This brings together an account of life at the time and specific tools used in whaling. The exhibits may change; check what is currently on display before your trip.

Grytviken cemetery contains the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton and is a ten-minute walk from the museum. While the Main Store offers an insight into life on South Georgia in the mid-20th century, the cemetery points to one individual. The two places thus emphasise different aspects of history.

Routes and visitor access

The Maiviken Walk leads from Maiviken to Grytviken and includes a former sealing site. Unlike the historical points of reference in Grytviken, the former sealing site here forms part of a route connecting two named places. Check the current landing and route conditions before travelling.

The historical perspectives differ in form: the Main Store offers an insight into everyday life and displays tools, the cemetery points to Shackleton, and the Maiviken Walk includes a former sealing site. This allows you to distinguish between historical interpretation, a personal connection and a route with historical significance.

The territory is accessible exclusively by sea. For planning purposes, distinguish between travelling there and visitor access: the South Sandwich Islands are closed to visitors. Access to disused whaling stations is also prohibited; Grytviken and Ocean Harbour are exceptions. Visitor rules may change. Check the current official guidance before making plans.

Discover more destinations: Zimbabwe, Estonia, Austria, Australia, India, Paraguay, Cayman Islands, France