ESTA for South Georgia – Entry authorization now mandatory

Where wilderness reigns supreme – and humans will soon only be allowed to enter with a permit

Hello, dear ice cream pioneers,

Today we are taking you to a very special place that will remain in the hearts of every visitor forever. Once you have been there, you will never forget it: South Georgia — this rugged natural paradise of ice and rock, populated by penguins, seals, and albatrosses — feels like a planet unto itself.

During our trips to South Georgia – for example, on the The Grand Tour — you can discover the wide beaches with their large king penguin colonies for yourself. This allows you to experience firsthand what makes this place so special: the impressive interplay of untouched nature, fascinating wildlife, and quiet vastness.

And perhaps that is precisely why more and more people dream of seeing this special place with their own eyes.

What will change from the 2025/2026 season onwards

The number of visitors has risen to around 15,000 per season in recent years—a challenge for the fragile ecosystem of the islands.

For this reason, the Government of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands is introducing a digital visitor system for the new season.

For anyone wishing to go ashore, an electronic entry permit will be mandatory. This is not to deter visitors, but to protect the penguins so that future generations can also experience them in their natural environment.

A system for greater protection

The new electronic entry permit is part of a sustainable management plan. Visitors to South Georgia are entering one of the most sensitive natural environments in the world. Breeding beaches where seals and seabirds raise their young undisturbed, vast penguin colonies, and rare plant species characterize this unique ecosystem.

To preserve this in the long term, better control, clear rules, and good cooperation are needed.

What does this mean for your trip?

Starting in 2025/2026, travelers will need an electronic entry permit to go ashore.

Together with our local partners, inventia not only takes care of the organization, but also covers the current costs of £200 per person. The proceeds go toward preserving the sensitive environment and help to responsibly manage the increasing number of visitors.

We look forward to accompanying you on this responsible journey.

Until next time—when we explore the next sustainability topic together.

Best regards,

Patricia

Head of Sustainability & Nature Positive Strategy