South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
Health
Before you travel make sure you have appropriate travel insurance. Make sure you have accessible funds to cover unexpected medical evacuation.
This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
Vaccine recommendations and health risks
At least 8 weeks before your trip:
- check the latest vaccine recommendations for Antarctica
- see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page
There are no search and rescue or other emergency services on the islands. The Falkland Islands and South America have the nearest medical facilities and are approximately 3 to 5 days sail away respectively. There’s no independent transport between South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands and the Falkland Islands or South America.
Before you book:
- check the experience and credentials of operators
- review the on-board medical facilities of the vessel and discuss any pre-existing medical condition with your operator
Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of South Georgia and the Sandwich Islands. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.
Medication
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad.
Travel and mental health
Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.