Gough Island, historically called Gonçalo Álvares, is a rugged volcanic island located in the South Atlantic Ocean. It forms part of the dependency of Tristan da Cunha and is within the British overseas territory of Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha. The island is included together with Inaccessible Island in the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Gough and Inaccessible Islands.
Location and geography
Gough Island lies well away from continental landmasses and neighbouring islands. Typical distances from key points are:
- About 400 km (250 mi) to the south‑east of the main Tristan da Cunha group (which itself includes Nightingale and Inaccessible Islands);
- Approximately 2,400 km (1,500 mi) north‑east of South Georgia;
- Roughly 2,700 km (1,700 mi) west of Cape Town;
- More than 3,200 km (2,000 mi) from the nearest point of South America.
Human presence and facilities
The island has no permanent civilian population. A small meteorological and communications facility is maintained on Gough, typically staffed by a team of about six people. This weather station is run by the South African National Antarctic Programme with the permission of the United Kingdom; South Africa has operated personnel on the island since the mid‑1950s.
Conservation status
Because of its isolation and relatively undisturbed habitats, Gough Island has been recognised for its natural values and is protected under the joint UNESCO listing with Inaccessible Island. Access is restricted and activities on the island are managed to limit impacts on its wildlife and environment.