‘Macca‘ rests at the ends of the earth. The remote wilderness is tucked away in the southeast corner of the Pacific, halfway between Australia and Antractida. A tiny fragment of land, it is of huge significance on a world scale, yet was only discovered by accident by Frederick Hasselbrorough in 1810 while he was looking around for new sealing grounds. Photo by: ailsa45

Under Tasmania’s wing, the only human inhabitants on this extraordinary wildlife sanctuary are from the Australian Antarctic Division, based on the north of the island. Over the centuries scientist have been endlessly drawn to this unsung wonder of the natural world. Each spring, around 3.5 million seabirds, mostly penguins, and 80,000 elephant seals pull themselves up on to the rocky shoreline to breed. There are pinguins galore – rockhoppers, kings, royals and gentooes. Rabbits are a less welcome sight and are literally eating away at this World Heritage Site. Photo by: cmg099

You have to work extremely hard to get to this island, but the rewards for true lovers of wildlife and wilderness are unparalleled. It’s cold inhospitable place at the best of times, but you don’t go there for the weather. Photo by: ailsa45

When to go: In the breeding season – over the summer months and early autumn. Even then the weather can be challenging. Population: Uninhabited ( expect 20 – 40 members of the Australian Antarctic Division who are based here every year). How to get there: Very unlimited access. Most visitors spending up to two days on the island and tourist boats. Photo by: esjohnson