Heard Island and McDonald Islands
Heard Island and McDonald Islands are a group of remote, uninhabited islands located in the southern Indian Ocean. The islands are an Australian territory, and are located about 4,000 kilometers (2,500 miles) from the mainland of Australia. The islands were discovered in the 19th century, but have never been permanently inhabited. They are home to a variety of plants and animals, including seabirds, seals, and penguins. The islands are protected as a World Heritage Site, and are a popular destination for scientific research and expeditions.
Weather
The weather on Heard Island and McDonald Islands is cold and wet, due to the islands' location in the southern Indian Ocean. The average temperature on the islands ranges from about 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius) in the winter to about 46 degrees Fahrenheit (8 degrees Celsius) in the summer. The islands receive high levels of rainfall throughout the year, and are often shrouded in fog and clouds. Strong winds and rough seas are also common on the islands, due to their exposed location in the open ocean. Overall, the weather on Heard Island and McDonald Islands is harsh and unforgiving, and is not suitable for human habitation.Things to do
- As uninhabited islands located in a remote part of the southern Indian Ocean, there are no activities or attractions for visitors to enjoy on Heard Island and McDonald Islands. The islands are protected as a World Heritage Site, and access is restricted to scientific researchers and other authorized personnel. The islands are not open to the general public, and are not accessible by commercial airlines or cruise ships. Therefore, there are no 'things to do' on the islands, and visitors cannot visit them as part of a vacation or tour.