Travel Vaccines and Advice for South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
The South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands are a British Overseas territory located in the Southern Atlantic Ocean.
There are no permanent residents on the islands, but a few scientists and government officials. Air travel is not available to the islands and they are only accessible by private vessels and a few cruise liners make a stop every year.
The only settlement on the island is Grytviken where there is a museum.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for South Georgia & South Sandwich Islands?
What Is the Climate Like in South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands?
How Safe Is South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands?
Museum and Sights in Grytviken
What Should I Take to the South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands?
U.S. Embassy in South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
Do I Need Vaccines for South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, hepatitis B, influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travelers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travelers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travelers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Typhoid, a potentially life-threatening illness caused by Salmonella Typhi, spreads through contaminated food and water in areas with poor sanitation. To prevent it, practice good hygiene and safe food and water precautions.
- Hepatitis A – Be sure to protect yourself from hepatitis A, a contagious liver infection caused by HAV, through vaccination. The virus spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Along with vaccination, maintaining proper hygiene and avoiding undercooked shellfish are essential for prevention.
- Rabies – Rabies is a life-threatening viral infection transmitted primarily through bites and scratches from infected animals. Vaccination is the key to prevention, offering pre-exposure protection to high-risk individuals and post-exposure treatment for those exposed to rabies.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, caused by the hepatitis B virus, spreads through infected bodily fluids. While safe practices can reduce the risk, vaccination is the most reliable defense. The hepatitis B vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies, ensuring robust and long-lasting protection against this liver disease.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly infectious diseases, emphasizing the importance of vaccination. The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, is the key to personal and public health safety. It strengthens immunity, minimizing the risk of infection, and is a critical component in halting the spread of these contagious viruses.
There are very limited medical facilities on the islands. You are responsible for any medical care you may need.
To find out more about these vaccines, see our vaccinations page. Ready to travel safely? Book your appointment either call or start booking online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
Prevent Bug Bites in South Georgia
Safeguard against bug bites by dressing appropriately and using EPA-registered repellents with DEET, picaridin, or OLE. If bitten, cleanse the area, refrain from scratching, and mitigate discomfort with OTC treatments. Seek medical aid for serious reactions.
Food and Water Safety in South Georgia
Abroad, make wise food choices by familiarizing yourself with local cuisine and favoring established restaurants. Frequent hand-washing is crucial, and it’s advisable to steer clear of street food, opting for thoroughly cooked options.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for South Georgia & the South Sandwich Islands?
It is not easy to get access to to the South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands. If you are on a cruise ship, you are able to have access. However, if you are traveling on a private ship, you need to get a visa permit from the government of SGSSI.
South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to South Georgia? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of the United Kingdom and U.S. State Department
What Is the Climate Like in South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands?
South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands are not popular tourist destinations due to their cold and harsh climate. They do not have permanent settlements or infrastructure to support tourism. The weather conditions can vary depending on the time of year. But, the islands experience the most favorable weather during the summer months of December to February. During this time, temperatures can reach as high as 50 and there are longer daylight hours.
In contrast, the winter months from June to August are very cold and harsh, with temperatures dropping below freezing. Travel to the islands during the winter months is extremely difficult. Only experienced researchers and professionals are typically allowed to visit.
How Safe Is South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands?
There is no crime on the islands, but due to the remoteness of the islands, it is dangerous for people to travel to. There is no airstrip or emergency medical care on the island and weather can change quickly and become dangerous.
Beware of seals and try to stay away from them own the island. They can be extremely aggressive.
Old whaling stations are prohibited to go into because they are in disrepair and there is a risk of asbestos.
Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime if a crime should be committed against you.
Museum and Sights in Grytviken
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Grytviken is a place on South Georgia. It used to be a place where people hunted whales. Now, it is a museum where people can learn about the history of whaling in the area. Grytviken is also known for its wildlife, such as whales, and is a good place to go whale watching.
People can also visit the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton, an explorer who died during an expedition to the Antarctic in 1922. Grytviken has a post office where visitors can send postcards and letters, and it is known as the world’s southernmost post office. The area around Grytviken is very beautiful, with snow-capped mountains and glaciers. Visitors can go on hikes or enjoy the scenery from the whaling station.
Grytviken is a popular tourist destination where people can learn about the history of the area, see wildlife, and enjoy the natural beauty.
What Should I Take to the South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands?
When you travel to South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, it’s important to pack warm clothes and sturdy shoes. The islands can be very cold and the terrain can be rough, so you need to be prepared.
It’s also important to bring sun protection, a camera, and any medications you need. Don’t forget to bring your passport and some cash, since there are no ATMs on the islands. You might also want to bring some snacks and books to keep you entertained during downtime.
Bring binoculars to see the amazing wildlife up close. Remember to pack light, and only bring what you really need, since you’ll need to carry everything with you.
U.S. Embassy in South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
All Americans visiting South Georgia should register online with the U.S. Department of State before departure. This will inform the office of your travel plans within the country and will allow them to reach out in the case of an emergency or evacuation.
There is no U.S. embassy in South Georgia, but it is served by the embassy in the United Kingdom.
U.S. Embassy London
33 Nine Elms Lane
London, SW11 7US
United Kingdom
Phone: [44] (0)20 7499-9000
If you have any questions about traveling to South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now and protect yourself today.
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