Machu Picchu Base

Machu Picchu Base is Peru's research station on King George Island in Antarctica, located just above sea level. It focuses on work in geology, climatology, and Antarctic biology to understand the polar environment.

Peru established this research facility in 1989 after joining the Antarctic Treaty in 1981. This step expanded the country's ability to conduct science in polar regions.

The station carries the name of Peru's ancient citadel, showing the nation's connection between its heritage and polar science. This naming choice links the country's mountain history with research at the world's southern edge.

Access is through the research vessel BAP Carrasco, which has managed transportation and supplies since 2017. Visitors should prepare for extreme cold and understand that the station is only accessible to authorized scientists and personnel.

The station studies krill populations as potential food sources while monitoring the connection between Antarctic waters and Peru's Humboldt Current. This research links distant ocean currents to the country's fishing industry thousands of kilometers away.

Location: Antarctic Treaty area

Inception: 1945

Elevation above the sea: 5 m

GPS coordinates: -62.09140,-58.47110

Latest update: December 7, 2025 09:23