Gough and Inaccessible Islands

Gough and Inaccessible Islands are two remote volcanic islands in the South Atlantic Ocean, part of the Tristan da Cunha group, and are recognised for globally important seabird colonies and endemic species. The islands are largely uninhabited and retain near-pristine ecosystems.

Visitors (normally researchers or authorised personnel) encounter sheer coastal cliffs, dense island vegetation and prolific seabird breeding sites, including large numbers of albatrosses and petrels. The islands are also notable for endemic plants and landbirds adapted to isolated island conditions.

The islands have a history of occasional visitation by sailors and later by scientific expeditions; conservation designations aim to protect breeding seabirds and island ecosystems from invasive species and disturbance. Management focuses on biosecurity and preservation of island biodiversity.

Both islands lie in the South Atlantic Ocean as part of the Tristan da Cunha territory of the United Kingdom, occupying remote oceanic positions far from continental landmasses.

• Access restrictions: Both islands are extremely remote and access is tightly controlled; visits are typically by scientific or conservation teams rather than general tourism.

What to See#

• Gough Island: Gough Island, a remote oceanic island with large breeding colonies of seabirds and significant endemic species.
• Inaccessible Island: Inaccessible Island, a rugged volcanic island with steep cliffs and dense vegetation that supports unique breeding seabird assemblages.

Gough and Inaccessible Islands are extremely remote and not served by commercial flights. Access is by sea only-typical voyages depart from Cape Town and call at Tristan da Cunha before Gough/Inaccessible; there are no regular passenger services. Visiting either island requires joining a research or expedition vessel and obtaining the necessary permits, as landings are strictly controlled for conservation reasons.

• Do not plan an independent tourist landing - visits to Gough and Inaccessible Islands are heavily restricted and limited to authorised scientific or conservation expeditions with prior permission from Tristan da Cunha authorities.
• If you have a legitimate scientific or conservation reason, apply well in advance and expect strict biosecurity and landing protocols; equipment and clothing must meet decontamination requirements to protect the islands' unique wildlife.
• Schedule any permitted expedition for the Southern Hemisphere summer (roughly December-February) when seas are relatively calmer and weather conditions are most favourable for ship calls, but still expect long, infrequent voyages to reach the islands.