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NASA ASTER volcano archive jpl CC BY-SA 4.0 Wikimedia Commons

Bristol Island

Island

Bristol Island is a volcanic, uninhabited island in the South Sandwich archipelago. It is visited only by scientists and occasional expedition vessels studying volcanism and polar ecosystems.

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In this guide

Bristol Island essentials

Things to Do
When to Go

Best Time to Visit Bristol Island

Visits only practicable in the austral summer during organized expeditions.

Southern summer
December-March · -5-5°C
The only practical time for expedition cruises; seas are still rough but wildlife is active.

Weather & Climate near Bristol Island

Climate

Bristol Island's climate is classified as Ice Cap - Ice Cap climate with cold summers (peaking in February) and freezing winters (coldest in July). Temperatures range from -8°C to 4°C. Abundant rainfall (1438 mm/year), wettest in January.

Air Quality: AQI 11 Good
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
4°
Warmest Month
-8°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions
Month Comfort Temp Feels Rain Sky Humidity Wind UV Daylight
January - 2° - 4° -2° 157 mm - - 7.7 m/s - -
February - 3° - 4° -2° 146 mm - - 9.1 m/s - -
March - 2° - 3° -4° 127 mm - - 9.4 m/s - -
April - -1° - 1° -7° 116 mm - - 9.5 m/s - -
May - -4° - -1° -10° 127 mm - - 9.1 m/s - -
June - -7° - -1° -12° 108 mm - - 9.2 m/s - -
July - -8° - -2° -14° 109 mm - - 9.1 m/s - -
August - -7° - -2° -13° 111 mm - - 9.7 m/s - -
September - -6° - -1° -11° 104 mm - - 9.7 m/s - -
October - -3° - 1° -8° 93 mm - - 9.7 m/s - -
November - -1° - 2° -6° 109 mm - - 9.1 m/s - -
December - 1° - 3° -4° 131 mm - - 7.9 m/s - -
Getting There & Around

How to Get to Bristol Island

Access only via expedition cruises or research vessels operating in the South Atlantic/Antarctic regions; itinerary-dependent and subject to strict environmental rules.

Tips for Visiting Bristol Island

  • Expeditions to South Sandwich Islands are only possible as part of specialized cruises - plan well in advance and prepare for rough seas.
  • Observe all wildlife regulations - the islands are protected and landings are very limited.
  • Bring cold-weather and sea-sickness gear; the islands lie well south in the sub-Antarctic belt.