French Southern Territories 2 Day Itinerary

Title: 2-Day Itinerary for Travelling in the French Southern Territories

Day 1: Île Amsterdam & Île Saint-Paul

  1. Morning:

    • Arrival at Terre Adélie Airport, located on the coast of Île de la Possession, one of the islands composing the French Southern and Antarctic Lands. [Transportation: Plane from Reunion or Mauritius]
    • Check-in at the only accommodation available, the Antarctica XIII Lodge. It’s essential to book well in advance as it fills up quickly. [Accommodation: Antarctica XIII Lodge]

  2. Afternoon:

    • Visit the Saint-Esprit Plateau on Île Amsterdam, where you can observe the largest colony of northern rockhopper penguins in the world.
    • Explore the Mare-aux-Cochons, a large saltwater lake home to numerous seabirds.

  3. Evening:

    • Dinner at the Antarctica XIII Lodge, enjoy local and international cuisine while surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

Day 2: Île de la Possession

  1. Morning:

    • Visit the Grand-Beurling area on Île de la Possession to observe elephant seals and southern royal albatrosses.
    • Explore the Rempart, a lava flow formed during a volcanic eruption in 1931, which offers stunning views of the coastline.

  2. Afternoon:

    • Visit the Terre Adélie research station, one of the most remote and isolated scientific outposts on Earth.
    • Take a walk along the Plage des Français, a sandy beach where you can enjoy the unique flora and fauna of these sub-Antarctic islands.

Things to Know:

  1. The French Southern Territories are located in the southern Indian Ocean, approximately 4,000 kilometers southwest of Madagascar.
  2. The climate is cold and temperate with significant rainfall throughout the year. Always pack warm clothing and waterproof gear.
  3. No visa is required for stays up to 3 months for citizens of many countries, including European Union, United States, Canada, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. Check the French Embassy website for the latest information regarding visa requirements.
  4. The best time to visit is between November and March when the weather is milder, and it’s easier to reach the islands by boat or plane.
  5. Air Austral offers direct flights from Réunion Island to Terre Adélie Airport.
  6. Due to the remote location and harsh climate, services are limited, and it’s essential to plan well in advance.

Activities:

  1. Penguin watching
  2. Seabird spotting
  3. Volcanic landscape exploration
  4. Scientific station visits
  5. Beach walks

Enjoy your trip to the French Southern Territories, one of Earth’s last great wildernesses!