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.