South Georgia is situated about 1,400 kilometers (870 miles)east-southeast of the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) and about 2,700 kilometers (1,700 miles) east of the southern tip of South America. It is part of a British Overseas Territory known as South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands. South Georgia is an incredibly mountainous island, with its highest peak, Mount Paget, reaching 2,934 meters (9,626 feet) in elevation. The island is known for its rugged and glaciated terrain, with numerous fjords and bays along its coastline and is renowned for its abundant and diverse wildlife. It serves as a breeding ground for millions of seabirds, including albatrosses, petrels, and penguins. The island is famous for its large colonies of king penguins. It is also home to various seals, such as elephant seals and fur seals. South Georgia has a rich history of exploration and whaling. It was discovered by Captain James Cook in 1775.  Visitors can explore the island's stunning landscapes, visit old whaling stations, and observe the abundant wildlife. However, access to certain areas may be restricted to protect the fragile ecosystem. South Georgia is a designated wildlife sanctuary and is protected by strict conservation measures. The South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands Marine Protected Area was established in 2012 to safeguard the surrounding waters and marine life.