FranceAntarctic
AntarcticFrench Southern and Antarctic LandsTravel guide
The French Southern and Antarctic Lands are a French overseas territory. They include islands in the Indian Ocean and Adélie Land, a narrow strip of Antarctica claimed by France. The islands have no permanent residents, and ordinary tourist access is very limited.
Why go
Crozet, Kerguelen, Saint-Paul and Amsterdam were listed together as a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) natural World Heritage site in 2019.
Port-aux-Français on Kerguelen is the capital and largest settlement.
Researchers study the islands' native wildlife.
Getting there
By air
- There are four basic airstrips: on Europa Island, the Glorioso Islands, Juan de Nova Island and Tromelin Island.
- There are no commercial flights to these airfields.
- Flights are arranged only for French scientists and researchers.
By sea
- There are no harbours, and cruise ships almost never visit.
- Staff travel on the Marion Dufresne, a research and supply ship. It makes a circuit from Réunion four times a year.
What to see and do
Crozet Islands
This island group lies near the polar region and forms part of the natural World Heritage site.
Kerguelen Islands
This island group forms part of the natural World Heritage site. It is also home to Port-aux-Français, the territory's largest settlement.
Amsterdam and Saint-Paul
These two volcanic islands form part of the natural World Heritage site.
Money
Euro (EUR)
Staying safe
- All the islands have harsh environments, especially during the Southern Hemisphere winter.
Where to stay
- There is no public accommodation on the islands.
People and safety in French Southern and Antarctic Lands
LGBT+ travellers
Legal and protected
- Same-sex couples can marry.
- Laws protect against discrimination.
Questions
Is French Southern and Antarctic Lands part of France?
French Southern and Antarctic Lands is a territory linked to France, with its own entry rules. Check them separately even if you can visit France.
Does a France visa let me visit French Southern and Antarctic Lands?
Not automatically. Many territories set their own entry rules, so a visa or visa-free entry for France may not cover French Southern and Antarctic Lands. Check the French Southern and Antarctic Lands visa page for your passport.
Where are the French Southern and Antarctic Lands?
The islands lie in the Indian Ocean, roughly equally distant from Africa, Antarctica and mainland Australia. The territory also includes Adélie Land in Antarctica.
Can I take a commercial flight there?
No commercial flights serve the four airstrips. Flights are arranged only for French scientists and researchers.
Can I book a place on the supply ship?
Tourist berths on the Marion Dufresne stopped being available in 2019. The ship carries staff and makes four circuits a year from Réunion.
Is there somewhere for visitors to stay?
There is no public accommodation on the islands.
What is the climate like?
The islands have a harsh and inhospitable climate. Conditions are especially harsh during the Southern Hemisphere winter.
Does anyone live there permanently?
The islands have no permanent inhabitants. Scientists and a small military presence stay there.
What currency does the territory use?
The currency is the euro (EUR).
Which islands have World Heritage status?
Crozet, Kerguelen, Saint-Paul and Amsterdam were listed together as a natural World Heritage site in 2019.
Reviewed by @snuck