Saint Paul and Amsterdam

Saint Paul and Amsterdam Islands comprise two volcanic landmasses covering 66 square kilometers in the southern Indian Ocean, north-northeast of Kerguelen Islands.

The Spanish explorer Juan Sebastian de Elcano made the first recorded sighting of Amsterdam Island in March 1522, naming it Desesperanza.

The Martin-de-Vivies research station maintains French territorial presence and conducts environmental research with teams of 25 to 50 scientists throughout the year.

The islands operate in the UTC+5 time zone and maintain regular communication through scientific equipment at the permanent research facility.

The Amsterdam albatross nests exclusively on Amsterdam Island's plateau, making this territory essential for the survival of this bird species.

Location: French Southern and Antarctic Lands

Inception: 1924

Part of: French Southern and Antarctic Lands nature reserve

GPS coordinates: -37.80000,77.53333

Latest update: May 27, 2025 12:56