Livingston Island

The second-largest island in South Shetlands, situated approx 150 km from the Peninsula, this amazing island was the first land discovered south of 60° south latitude in 1819.

The island is characterized by numerous glaciers and ice caps, but it also possesses a notably large amount of ice-free terrain compared to many other islands in the region, particularly around the Byers Peninsula at its western end. Besides its striking beauty as a postcard of a true Antarctic landscape, Livingston Island was a hub for sealers and contains multiple historical sites and artifacts, such as old water boats and a sledge. It was a key site during the Antarctic exploration and sealing eras, and is today a true haven for wildlife. Hannah Point is one of the most popular Antarctic sites for viewing Gentoo and Chinstrap penguin rookeries.

Hannah Point

Hannah Point is a highlight for many Antarctic visitors. This landing site is one of the most biodiverse and geologically rich, strictly controlled due to its ecological sensitivity to human disturbance. There is a high concentration of diverse wildlife, including: nesting Gentoo, Chinstrap, and a small number of Macaroni penguins! (being the Gentoo and Chinstrap, the major nesting colonies). Amazing nesting southern giant petrels guard the rocky promontories and slopes all around, and Southern elephant seals are found on these beaches.

The western part of the site is a protected zone and is closed to tourists to protect sensitive plant and fossil areas.

Also, vegetation is an important feature of the site: native grasses and lichens grow beautifully, covering the upper slopes of the Point. The green alga Prasiola, and large moss patches cover the area towards Walker Bay.