The South Shetland Islands comprise a collection of 11 major islands including King George Island, Deception Island, Livingston Island and Elephant Island together with a number of minor ones. The South Shetlands are located around 60 miles northwest of the Antarctic Peninsula and are regarded as the mildest and most accessible part of the region.
Amongst the wildlife, there are colonies of chinstrap penguins, elephant seals breed on the beaches and humpback whales feed in the rich protected waters.
Elephant Island is best known as the place of refuge for Sir Ernest Shackleton’s crew after the loss and break up of the Endurance in 1916.
Please note that landings on Elephant Island are difficult and not always possible.