WANDERLIST Heard Island and McDonald Islands: Ten must-see attractions (and some off-the-beaten-track)

• Located in the southern Indian Ocean, cloaked in mystique and rugged beauty, lies the remote and Heard Island. Known for its untouched landscapes and abundant wildlife, this vast volcanic island offers an off-the-beaten-track adventure.

• Big Ben: Towering at an impressive 2,745 meters, Big Ben is the island’s highest peak. Embark on a challenging hike to the summit and soak in panoramic views of glaciers, dramatic cliffs, and the surrounding Southern Ocean.
• Elephant Spit: Witness an otherworldly sight at Elephant Spit, where waves crash against rugged cliffs, creating dramatic spray and mist. This untamed display of nature is a photographer’s dream.
• Cape Pillar: Explore the southernmost point of Heard Island, a rugged promontory that juts dramatically into the ocean. Witness the power of the Southern Ocean as waves crash against the cliffs, and Admire the abundant birdlife nesting along the shoreline.
• Spit Bay: Discover a serene paradise of untouched white sandy beaches and turquoise waters at Spit Bay. Relax on the beach, take a swim in the crystalline waters, and Admire the sight of curious seals basking nearby.
• Laurens Peninsula: Hike across the barren landscapes of the Laurens Peninsula, home to glaciers, rugged volcanic formations, and coastal views. Keep an eye out for elephant seals and colonies of penguins as you traverse this terrain.
• Big Ben Ridge: For experienced mountaineers, the exhilarating climb up Big Ben Ridge offers a thrilling challenge. Traverse jagged peaks, sheer cliffs, and glaciers while indulging in panoramic vistas that will take your breath away.
• Atlas Cove: Witness the haunting remnants of a bygone era at Atlas Cove, where the rusted remnants of abandoned buildings tell the story of past human endeavors on the island. Take a moment to ponder the resilience of nature as it reclaims what was once claimed by man.
• Jacka Glacier: Admire the expanse of the Jacka Glacier, as it cascades down from the towering mountains to the sea. This ice formation is a testament to the island’s volcanic past.
• Azorella Peninsula: Explore the flora of Heard Island on the Azorella Peninsula. Beneath the cloud-capped peaks, discover carpets of Azorella plants, cushion plants, and mosses that add a burst of colour to the otherwise desolate landscape.
• Wildlife Encounters: Keep an eye out for the island’s diverse wildlife, including seabirds, penguins, seals, and sometimes even the elusive leopard seal. Witnessing these creatures in their natural habitat is an experience not to be missed.

Off-the-Beaten-Track Experiences:

• Zodiac Cruising in the Kerguelen Plateau: Venture beyond Heard Island on a zodiac cruise to explore the vast and remote Kerguelen Plateau. Encounter massive icebergs, migratory whales, and a surprising array of seabirds.
• Snorkeling in the Southern Ocean: Brave the frigid waters to snorkel amidst a world of underwater wonders. Witness extraordinary marine life, including colourful sea stars, kelp forests, and curious fish.
• Overnight Camping at Long Beach: Embark on a multi-day camping expedition along the shores of Long Beach. Camp under the clear night sky, fall asleep to the sounds of crashing waves and awaken to sunrises.
• Birdwatching in the Hinterland: Traverse the barren hinterland and discover hidden ecosystems teeming with birdlife. Keep your binoculars ready to spot petrels, albatrosses, and other rare avian species.
• Geothermal Exploration: Delve deep into the volcanic secrets of Heard Island by exploring geothermal areas. Witness active thermal vents and hot springs, a reminder of the island’s fiery origins.
• Ice Caving: Venture into the frozen heart of Heard Island by exploring ice caves. Witness the surreal blue hues and intricate formations within these natural icy cathedrals.
• Night Photography: Capture the night sky of the Southern Hemisphere in all its glory. With limited light pollution, the stars and auroras paint the sky with an ethereal beauty.
• Sub-Antarctic Botanical Exploration: Join a botanist on an expedition to study the sub-Antarctic flora of Heard Island. Learn about the island’s endemic plants and their adaptations to this harsh environment.
• Documentary Filmmaking: Tap into your creative side by capturing the raw beauty of Heard Island through a filmmaker’s lens. Document the island’s landscapes, wildlife, and the untamed spirit that makes it so captivating.