Heard Island | Tra-vel

When to go

There is no ordinary travel season. Authorised research and conservation expeditions usually work in the southern summer, when there is more daylight and the chances of a safe landing are somewhat better; storms, cold, fog and heavy swell remain possible at any time. The application for environmental assessment and a permit must be submitted at least five months before the planned departure.

Things to see and do

There are no ordinary excursions. Within authorised programmes, specialists study Big Ben's volcanism, glacier dynamics, subantarctic ecosystems, colonies of penguins and petrels, elephant seals and the historical remains of the station at Atlas Cove. Every movement and observation follows the permit conditions and a plan to minimise disturbance.

Practical tips

Access is possible only with official permission following an environmental assessment. The expedition must be entirely self-sufficient, maintain strict biosecurity, avoid introducing organisms and not disturb birds or marine mammals. Emergency supplies, medical planning, reliable communications and insurance that meets the conditions are required; there is no local rescue infrastructure.

Getting there and getting around

There are no scheduled flights, passenger ships or tourist harbour. Approved groups arrive aboard a specialised expedition or research vessel under logistics agreed in advance. Landings are made by small boat only in suitable weather and at permitted locations; changes due to sea conditions or ice are normal.

Where to stay

There are no permanent residents, hotels, guesthouses or public campsites on the island. Participants in authorised expeditions stay on the ship or in a temporary, self-sufficient field camp that forms part of the approved plan. The historic station at Atlas Cove is not tourist accommodation.

What to try

There are no restaurants, shops or local supplies. The expedition brings all food and drinking water; waste is removed in accordance with the permit. Collecting plants, eggs, animals or marine resources is prohibited without a specific research permit.