South Georgia is a wildlife enthusiast's dream come true! Home to varied and abundant species of animals, this otherwise barren island is the destination for wild encounters.

Mostly rugged and barren, South Georgia is made up of impressive mountains rising out of the sea. Experience this truly unique destination!

Did you know that there are no permanent residents on the island of South Georgia? This intriguing destination would be a stop worth adding to any Antarctic trip! Many of our Antarctica cruise itineraries include a visit to the island. Get to know a few details about South Georgia prior to your adventure to the Great White Continent.

The London-based merchant Anthony de la Roche is credited with the first sighting of South Georgia (by European explorers) in 1675. Early maps thereafter called it “Roche Island”. The famous Captain James Cook was the first documented explorer to land on the island, in 1775. He dubbed the island “not worth the discovery”, yet mapped and surveyed it anyway.

The best time to visit South Georgia Island is during the months of November, December, and January when the king penguin population is at its peak, whales swim in the open water, and the wandering albatrosses are in residence. South Georgia Island is also colloquially called the ‘Antarctic Oasis’ due to the massive number of wildlife that visits this island.