What's happening on Heard Island & McDonald Islands?

Landing stores, Atlas Cove, Heard Island with Rogers Head in background Photo: Alan Campbell-Drury Due to the extreme isolation of Heard Island and McDonald Islands (HIMI), together with the persistently severe weather and sea conditions, human activities in the region have been, and remain, limited.

How do I get to heard and McDonald Islands?

Travel Information Tourism to Heard and McDonald Islands is highly regulated. Only a limited number of tourists are allowed each year, and visits must be organized through approved tour operators. The journey involves a flight from Australia or New Zealand to the islands, followed by a boat trip.

Where are heard and McDonald Islands?

Introduction Welcome to the guide for Heard and McDonald Islands, a remote archipelago in the Southern Indian Ocean.

Why should you visit heard and McDonald Islands?

Welcome to the guide for Heard and McDonald Islands, a remote archipelago in the Southern Indian Ocean. These islands are an untouched paradise offering unique landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich history. Please note that tourism is highly regulated due to the fragile ecosystem and the territorial disputes. 2. Geography and History

How has volcanic activity changed the McDonald Islands?

Recent volcanic activity has dramatically altered the McDonald Islands, approximately 40 kilometres west of the Laurens Peninsula. Sometime during the 1990s, the main island has doubled in size and increased in elevation, resulting in the complete loss of all vegetation on the island.

Are there scientific studies on Heard Island?

Although hindered by the extreme isolation and unfavourable working conditions, scientific studies have been carried out on Heard Island since the first research visit by scientists from the HMS Challenger in 1874. See the Research Expeditions pages in the History section of this website for more information.