Macquarie Island sits in the Southern Ocean, roughly halfway between Australia and Antarctica. Part of Australia’s territory, the island is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for both its geology and wildlife. It was discovered in 1810 by Frederick Hasselborough and named after Lachlan Macquarie, then Governor of New South Wales. Despite its small size and harsh climate, Macquarie Island supports an extraordinary range of wildlife. The island belongs to the Antipodes Subantarctic eco-region and is known for dense vegetation, including endemic moss species that grow in thick layers across the landscape. Macquarie Island is home to massive colonies of king penguins, royal penguins, gentoo penguins, and southern rockhopper penguins, along with more than 80,000 southern elephant seals and large populations of fur seals.
What truly sets Macquarie Island apart is its geology. It is the only place on Earth where rocks from the planet’s mantle are actively exposed above sea level, making it one of the most scientifically significant islands in the world.
Where Is Macquarie Island Located?
Macquarie Island lies in the Southern Ocean, about 930 miles south of New Zealand and roughly halfway between Tasmania and Antarctica. Its extreme isolation and subantarctic climate have helped preserve its fragile ecosystems. The only way to reach Macquarie Island is by subantarctic expedition cruise, often as part of longer voyages that include Antarctica or New Zealand’s remote islands.
Why Macquarie Island Is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Macquarie Island earned World Heritage status for its unmatched geological value and ecological importance.
It is the only known location where Earth’s mantle rocks are exposed above sea level
The island provides critical breeding habitat for millions of seabirds and marine mammals
Its ecosystems remain largely untouched due to strict conservation controls
These factors make Macquarie Island one of the most scientifically valuable places in the Southern Hemisphere.
Wildlife of Macquarie Island
Macquarie Island is one of the most wildlife-rich subantarctic islands in the world.
Four penguin species: king, royal, gentoo, and southern rockhopper
Large populations of southern elephant seals and fur seals
Albatrosses, petrels, and other seabirds nesting along the coast
Wildlife encounters here are close, frequent, and guided to minimize environmental impact. Macquarie Island (Ken Duncan)
Visiting Macquarie Island
Tourism on Macquarie Island is tightly controlled to protect its ecosystems. Visits are only possible through expedition cruises that follow strict biosecurity and landing guidelines. Best time to visit: November through March during the Antarctic summer What to expect:
Guided shore landings
Wildlife photography opportunities
Visits to historic research stations
Rugged landscapes shaped by wind, sea, and ice
Many travelers combine Macquarie Island with stops in Antarctica or New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands for a broader polar experience. King penguins, Macquarie Island (Nick Rains) Book your trip with our Trip Planners to visit Macquarie Island on a guided expedition cruise and experience its rare wildlife, geology, and remote subantarctic landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Macquarie Island
Does anyone live on Macquarie Island?
No permanent residents live on Macquarie Island. Only rotating scientific research teams occupy the island seasonally. What is so special about Macquarie Island?
It is the only place on Earth where Earth’s mantle is visible above sea level, alongside massive penguin and seal colonies. Can tourists go to Macquarie Island?
Yes, but only via guided expedition cruises with strict environmental controls. What happened on Macquarie Island?
The island experienced ecological damage from introduced species in the past, but successful conservation programs have restored native wildlife populations.
Plan Your Trip to Macquarie Island
Plan your trip to Macquarie Island — Contact an Adventure Life Specialist to design a subantarctic or Antarctic expedition that fits your travel goals.
