South Georgia travel guide

South Georgia is a largely chain of high (almost 3000 m), snow-covered glaciated mountains. At King Edward Point, near sea level, snow falls on an average of nearly 200 days annually, but the coastal area is free from snow and partially covered by vegetation in summer. This is the port of entry and is 1 km from Grytviken. Wildlife consists of most of the same species found in the Falkland Islands/Islas Malvinas, but in much larger numbers, especially penguins, albatross, and seals. Reindeer, introduced by Norwegian whalers in 1909, have flourished. Other points of interest are the abandoned whaling stations (although asbestos and other hazard restrict access), the little white whalers’ church, and several shipwrecks. The explorer, Sir Ernest Shackleton, lies in the whalers’ cemetery at Grytviken. A South Georgia Museum has been established there, where the whaling station is now rearranged as a display featuring amazing steam industrial archaeology. Inside is a display of artifacts, photographs and other items about the old Antarctic whaling and sealing industry with descriptions the history of the island, including events of 1982, and its wildlife. The island issues distinctive stamps, which are sold by the Post Office and museum. There is a South Georgia website: http://www.sgisland.org, and a South Georgia Association. The South Sandwich Islands, some 500 km southeast of South Georgia, are uninhabited but administered by the same government as South Georgia. Although very rarely visited they are a spectacular chain of 11 volcanoes, several of which are active.