Henderson Island (Pitcairn Islands)
Island Undisturbed raised coral atoll with exceptional biodiversity
Henderson Island is an uninhabited raised coral atoll in the Pitcairn group; scientists and very occasional visitors study its endemic species and intact shorelines.
Henderson Island is an uninhabited raised coral limestone island in the South Pacific, administered as part of the Pitcairn Islands. It is notable for its high level of endemic flora and fauna and for being one of the least disturbed raised coral islands in the world.
The island’s low human impact has preserved numerous endemic plants and bird species; it has been the subject of scientific study and conservation attention. In recent decades it has also become known for the accumulation of marine plastic debris on its beaches.
Henderson was designated a World Heritage Site for its natural values and isolated ecosystems. The island lies about 200 km east of Pitcairn Island and has no permanent population.
- Conservation status: Part of the Pitcairn Islands overseas territory and listed for its near-pristine island ecosystems and endemic species.
- Access: Landing is difficult because of steep coastal cliffs and lack of developed harbour facilities; most visits are by scientific or conservation vessels.
How to Get to Henderson Island (Pitcairn Islands) #
Henderson Island (Pitcairn Islands) has no airport and is accessible only by boat. Visitors reach it by sea from Pitcairn or on longer expedition cruises; landings are weather‑dependent and regulated by Pitcairn authorities. There are no scheduled commercial services to the island.
Tips for Visiting Henderson Island (Pitcairn Islands) #
- Henderson Island is remote, largely uninhabited and a UNESCO site with strictly controlled access - visits are only possible on authorised scientific or expedition cruises approved by Pitcairn authorities.
- Landings are often brief and depend on calm conditions and reef safety; if offered a shore visit, be prepared for no facilities, close supervision, and strict conservation/biosecurity rules to protect the island's fragile ecosystems.
Best Time to Visit Henderson Island (Pitcairn Islands) #
Henderson Island is most accessible during the drier months (May-October), but visits are very limited and usually restricted to scientific or conservation expeditions.
Weather & Climate near Henderson Island (Pitcairn Islands) #
Henderson Island (Pitcairn Islands)'s climate is classified as Tropical Rainforest - Tropical Rainforest climate with hot summers (peaking in February) and warm winters (coldest in August). Temperatures range from 18°C to 28°C. Abundant rainfall (1426 mm/year), wettest in December.
January
January is warm with highs of 28°C and lows of 23°C. Regular rainfall (80 mm).
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February
February is the warmest month with highs of 28°C and lows of 23°C. Significant rainfall (128 mm).
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March
March is warm with highs of 28°C and lows of 23°C. Regular rainfall (88 mm).
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April
April is warm with highs of 27°C and lows of 22°C. Significant rainfall (106 mm).
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May
May is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 20°C. Significant rainfall (108 mm).
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June
June is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 19°C. Significant rainfall (146 mm).
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July
July is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 18°C. Significant rainfall (144 mm).
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August
August is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 18°C. Significant rainfall (117 mm).
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September
September is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 18°C. Significant rainfall (117 mm).
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October
October is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 19°C. Significant rainfall (120 mm).
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November
November is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 20°C. Significant rainfall (124 mm).
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December
December is warm with highs of 26°C and lows of 22°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (148 mm).
