King George Island (Isla Rey Jorge)

Overview

King George Island, also known as Isla Rey Jorge, is the largest island in the South Shetland Islands archipelago, located in the Southern Ocean. It is known for its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and numerous research stations.

The island is a hotspot for scientific research and is home to a variety of wildlife, including penguins, seals, and numerous seabirds.

Wildlife Research Stations Hiking

Location

Address

Isla Rey Jorge

Neighborhood: Antarctic Peninsula

Coordinates

-62.180000, -58.780000

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

included in tour package

Children

included in tour package

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

November-March

Best Time of Day

Early morning

better wildlife sightings

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

half day

Full Experience

multiple days

Seasonal Highlights

spring

cold

• penguin chicks
• seabird nesting

summer

cool to mild

• 24-hour daylight
• peak wildlife activity

autumn

cooling down

• fall colors
• migrating birds

winter

very cold

• 24-hour darkness
• southern lights

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book ahead
Bring warm clothing
Check weather conditions

What to Bring

essential

warm clothing sturdy boots sun protection

seasonal

swimwear warm hat and gloves

not allowed

drones large groups without permission

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• extreme cold
• rough terrain

Medical facilities: limited

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $5000 (tour package)

parking N/A

food included in tour

souvenirs varies

Dress Code

warm and waterproof clothing, layered clothing, waterproof boots, inappropriate clothing for weather

Booking Tips

• months in advance
• specialized Antarctic tour operators
• varies by operator
• not applicable

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Antarctic Explorer

Size: 100 MB

Features: Map, Wildlife guide, Research station info

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Research stations, Tour boats

Charging Stations: Tour boats

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Chilean Air Force Base Presidente Eduardo Frei Montalva (Teniente Rodolfo Marsh Airport)

Distance: 2500 km

Travel Time: 2 hours by plane

chartered flight

$2000 2 hours

From City Center

Distance: N/A

boat

included in tour days

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique wildlife and research opportunities

Historical Significance: First sighted in 1819, important for scientific research

Insider Tips

Visit in February for best weather
Research stations may offer tours

Local Recommendations

• Visit research stations
• Ask guides for unique experiences

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hola

thank_you Gracias

where_is ¿Dónde está?

how_much ¿Cuánto cuesta?

beautiful Hermoso

ticket Boleto

Guide Languages: English, Spanish, Portuguese

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Penguin colonies

Best Time: Morning

Tips: Low angle for penguins

Result: Great wildlife shots

#Antarctica #Penguins

Research stations

Best Time: Afternoon

Tips: Wide shots

Result: Unique human presence in wilderness

#Research #Science

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, designated trails

prohibited areas research stations without permission

flash photography not allowed for wildlife

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited

tripod policy allowed with caution

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Bellingshausen Station

Distance: 5km

Walking: 1 hour

Type: Research Station

Commandante Ferraz Brazilian Antarctic Station

Distance: 10km

Walking: 2 hours