One of the best survival stories of all times...

It was on this island that Sir Ernest Shackleton’s crew survived while he sought rescue after the Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition of 1914–1917 (onboard the Endurance) ended tragically. Its particular name comes from both its elephant head-like appearance (when seen from above), and the Elephant seals commonly hauled out on its sandy and rocky shores.

Point Wild is the location where the crew of the expedition camped for four months until they were rescued by the Chilean Naval vessel Yelcho, commanded by Captain Luis Alberto Pardo. By ship or zodiac cruising (when weather allows it), the memorial bust of Captain Pardo and plaques celebrating the rescue of Shackleton’s men can be seen at the shore.

Antarctic terns, Chinstrap penguins and Kelp gulls breed here, and Fin and Humpback Whales are present in the area. Antarctic fur seals and Elephant seals regularly hauled out, and if lucky enough, the amazing Leopard seal can be seen patrolling the shores for a penguin snack.

Cape Valentine and Cape Lookout are also famous points at the northeastern and southern extremes respectively, the first being the actual site where the Endurance crew landed on their first attempt for safe haven.