French Southern and Antarctic Lands

French Southern and Antarctic Lands

The French Southern and Antarctic Lands is a collection of islands and territories in the southern Indian Ocean and Antarctic regions. These remote and isolated islands offer visitors the chance to experience some of the most unique landscapes and wildlife on the planet, with towering glaciers, rugged mountains, and diverse marine life. Visitors can explore the region through guided tours and expeditions, with opportunities for hiking, skiing, and wildlife watching. Some of the top attractions include the Kerguelen Islands, the Crozet Islands, and the Amsterdam and Saint-Paul Islands.

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Highlights, Sights & Attractions

Adélie Penguins on Île des Pétrels

The Île des Pétrels is a small island located near the coast of Adélie Land, an area of Antarctica claimed by France. The island is known for its large colony of Adélie penguins, providing a remarkable opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts. However, a... more

The Île des Pétrels is a small island located near the coast of Adélie Land, an area of Antarctica claimed by France. The island is known for its large colony of Adélie penguins, providing a remarkable opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts. However, access to the island is strictly controlled to protect the habitat of these iconic Antarctic birds.

Amsterdam Island

Amsterdam Island is known for its unique plant and animal life, notably the Amsterdam albatross, a critically endangered species. This isolated island, characterized by rugged cliffs and lush vegetation, provides an ideal breeding ground for various... more

Amsterdam Island is known for its unique plant and animal life, notably the Amsterdam albatross, a critically endangered species. This isolated island, characterized by rugged cliffs and lush vegetation, provides an ideal breeding ground for various bird species. Access is heavily regulated to protect the fragile ecosystem, making any visit a privileged and intimate experience with nature.

Baie de l`Observatoire

Baie de l`Observatoire, or Observatory Bay, is a beautiful location on the Kerguelen Islands known for its stunning landscapes. The bay is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush greenery, offering some of the most scenic views on the island. It`s a... more

Baie de l`Observatoire, or Observatory Bay, is a beautiful location on the Kerguelen Islands known for its stunning landscapes. The bay is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush greenery, offering some of the most scenic views on the island. It`s a picture-perfect snapshot of the raw, untouched beauty that defines the French Southern and Antarctic Lands.

Cap Cotter

Cap Cotter is a prominent cape on the Kerguelen Islands, offering stunning views of the surrounding seascape. Its rocky cliffs are a habitat for numerous bird species, while its shores often host elephant seals and fur seals. Cap Cotter is a shining... more

Cap Cotter is a prominent cape on the Kerguelen Islands, offering stunning views of the surrounding seascape. Its rocky cliffs are a habitat for numerous bird species, while its shores often host elephant seals and fur seals. Cap Cotter is a shining example of the raw, natural beauty that the French Southern and Antarctic Lands have to offer.

Crozet Islands

The Crozet Islands are a haven for wildlife, notably home to large colonies of king penguins and fur seals. The islands also serve as an important breeding site for wandering albatrosses. A visit to the islands is like stepping into a National Geogra... more

The Crozet Islands are a haven for wildlife, notably home to large colonies of king penguins and fur seals. The islands also serve as an important breeding site for wandering albatrosses. A visit to the islands is like stepping into a National Geographic documentary, offering rare opportunities to observe these species in their untouched natural habitats. Note that visits are strictly regulated to protect the wildlife.

Elephant Seals of Possession Island

Possession Island, part of the Crozet Archipelago, is known for its sizeable population of elephant seals. These marine mammals, known for their large size and distinctive noses, can be observed lounging on the island`s beaches or frolicking in the s... more

Possession Island, part of the Crozet Archipelago, is known for its sizeable population of elephant seals. These marine mammals, known for their large size and distinctive noses, can be observed lounging on the island`s beaches or frolicking in the surrounding waters. Visits are strictly controlled to protect the seals and their breeding grounds.

Grand Terre

Grand Terre is the largest island of the Kerguelen archipelago. The island`s sheer size allows for diverse landscapes, from vast glaciers and towering cliffs to tranquil lakes and expansive moss plains. This untouched, harsh yet beautiful landscape i... more

Grand Terre is the largest island of the Kerguelen archipelago. The island`s sheer size allows for diverse landscapes, from vast glaciers and towering cliffs to tranquil lakes and expansive moss plains. This untouched, harsh yet beautiful landscape is perfect for those seeking solace in the heart of nature. Access to the island is strictly regulated and usually part of a scientific expedition.

Îles Nuageuses

The Îles Nuageuses, or `Cloudy Islands,` are an essential breeding ground for various bird species, including petrels and albatrosses. These remote islands are almost untouched by humans, creating a sanctuary for wildlife. However, landing on these i... more

The Îles Nuageuses, or `Cloudy Islands,` are an essential breeding ground for various bird species, including petrels and albatrosses. These remote islands are almost untouched by humans, creating a sanctuary for wildlife. However, landing on these islands is not allowed, and any observation must be made from a distance to protect the delicate natural balance.

Climate

Month Temperature Sunshine hours Raindays
January 8 °C 10 12
February 9 °C 9 7
March 8 °C 7 13
April 7 °C 4 11
May 5 °C 3 20
June 4 °C 2 13
July 3 °C 3 16
August 3 °C 4 11
September 3 °C 7 14
October 4 °C 9 12
November 5 °C 10 14
December 7 °C 11 17

Facts

Language
  • French
Currency Euro

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