Elcho Island

The smallest and least populated territory in the world is surely something that you would want to visit at least once in a lifetime. A place where the remoteness and unpredictability of nature shines the most convincingly, you are bound to leave your footprints there. Elcho Island, the smallest of all South Pacific islands, has plenty to offer tourists with its rugged peaks, deep valleys, and lofty heights – it’s one small piece of paradise.

History

The first Europeans to set foot on the island were Spanish navigators in the early 1800s. However, it was not until 1889 that a British expedition discovered Elcho Island and named it after an old friend of their captain, explorer Lieutenant George Strong Elcho. It remained uninhabited until 1936 when a Norwegian member of an Australian Antarctic expedition leased it from the Falkland Islands Dependencies Survey (FIDS).

Nature Lover’s Paradise

Climate

The climate on Elcho Island is mild and subpolar. The island experiences a cold winter with temperatures reaching as low as -8°C, but never snows. In summer the weather is warm and sunny with average highs of 25°C. Because of its location near the Antarctic Circle, there are always winds blowing which can be quite gusty at times! Plants

The vegetation of Elcho Island is made up mostly of shrubs and mosses with a scattering similar to that on other glaciers, leading the resourceful naturalist Mabel Joy Bradley to note “New Zealand 3C. Blossoms are blooming ceaselessly.” The island has never been cleared so while it may seem barren in appearance nature still subsists there quite well. You can see many birds during your trip such

Culture

There is no permanent human population on Elcho Island – it’s strictly a nature reserve. However, there are occasional visits by researchers or other biologists conducting research on the island. The only way to get there is by air which means that you’ll need to be prepared for an adventure! Image Credit: Creative Commons by Jonathan Dewitt via Flickr.

com Mails sent to Capt Nanny Frieda, an avalanche search dog and the island’s only resident will be answered by Fido! Some visitors may think that the remoteness and cold climate means there isn’t much to see on Elcho Island; but in fact it is home to 150 animals of 44 species. While you are out skiing or exploring this place might as well becoming a wonderland for many wild creatures –

Politics

As with most of New Zealand’s remote islands, Elcho is part of the country’s national park system. This means that it is governed by the Department of Conservation and is not allowed to be commercially exploited in any way. As such, visitors are able to enjoy its natural beauty without feeling guilty about taking pictures or leaving any garbage behind!

Government Services

Elcho Island is part of the Hauraki Gulf Islands National Park. Entry to the park is free, but there are some charges for parking and/or swimming. For more information about visiting Elcho Island, please visit www.doc.govt.nz /hci-national-park

Best time to visit Elcho Island is from October – April. During these months the weather during your trip can vary greatly between perfect sunshine and freezing cold temperatures. Best hiking season varies throughout NZ but generally starts in December, ends mid March/April. Best sea kayaking seasons also differs depending on where you live in NZ (From June mid December). Keep an eye out for special tours operated by DOC orgs

Tourism

Elcho Island is a popular tourist destination. While visitors are welcome, the island is only open during limited hours each day and it is not possible to stay overnight on the island. Visitors are able to explore the island by foot, bicycle or car but due to its remote location flights into Elcho must be arranged in advance.

Accessibility

Elcho Island can only be reached by boat or plane so those with mobility issues would need assistance accessing the island. Although all vegetation on the island has been cleared for trampling, walking can be tiring for any long distance walkers.

Some of the most popular activities to do in Elcho Island are hiking and sea kayaking although visitors with less extreme interests will find plenty else to entertain them too! Freshwater fishing is possible during a short window each season when rain falls but high tides from December – April make this activity quite difficult so please check

Transport

There is no public transport to the island so visitors will need to arrange a taxi or ferry ride before arrival. Alternatively, visitors can hike or cycle there from either Queenstown or Wanaka. Eco Culture Elcho Island is very historical.

Due to the era it was originally settled in, archeology throughout Elcho Island has found many artefacts of the past ranging from multi-lingual rocks used by Maori inhabitants and native fern species (the same plants grow on French Polynesia). There are plenty activities you can do such as minibike riding and kayaking to keep your entertainment levels high!

The beautiful view that awaits visitors stands

Cuisine

There are a few cafes and restaurants on the island but due to its remote location, most visitors will have to bring their own provisions.

Climate

Elcho Island has an interesting climate with warm summers and cool winters.

Wildlife

There is a variety of wildlife that can be seen on the island, from seals to wetas and kiwis. These little creatures can be seen around the campsite and within some parts of Elcho Island National Park. Of all your options, rodeos is probably the most interesting in that you get to interact with none other than kiwis! There are a variety of activities for hikers on Elcho Island including hiking trails

Cost: $$$

Saint Kilda Archipelago Tours has ukulele or guitar classes upon availability running every Wednesday evening during

Conclusion

Located 300 km west of Iceland, it is the latest island to have been added to the list of world’s 365 islands! Infamous for its mystery, featuring features such as being a volcanic island and its peak being featured by Google Earth as well, it is one of the most adventurous experiences you can get your hands on.

A little known fact is that it is believed that Vikings had artifacts buried over there. It is now the only inhabited island in Mid-Atlantic and at present, it has a population of just 50 people! With this limited population, leisure activities are scarce on the island but still.

FAQ

What Is Elcho Island?

Elcho Island is an inhabited island in the Mid-Atlantic Ocean and it was only added to the list of world’s 365 islands a year ago! It is located 300 km west of Iceland.

Why Should I Visit Elcho Island?

Elcho Island tends to be more of a mystery than well-known and having the experience is highly recommended. It can also offer opportunities in backpacking, hiking or camping!

Where Can I Stay On Elcho Island?

Limited options are available on the island but there are a few places where people can stay. Camping and hiking opportunities abound so be sure to inquire about those prior to booking your trip!

What’s The Weather Like In Elcho Island During Wintertime? Is It Cold There?

Elcho Island experiences a colder climate during wintertime with average temperatures ranging from below 0 degrees Celsius to 4 degrees Celsius.

How Do I Get To Elcho Island?

Getting to Elcho Island is as simple as catching a flight. Iberia and Iceland Air currently offer flights between Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital city (which also has the largest international airport) and Foynes airfield in County Limerick, Ireland where passengers can board either an Ibex aircraft or a commercial plane. You can book tickets through Skyscanner .