Here Are 10 Vacation-Worthy Things To Do In Sevierville 

Aug 10, 2023

Last Updated on: Sep 19, 2025

Travel Guides

Sevierville, Tennessee, is a charming city. It lies nestled in the breathtaking beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. 

Guess what? Over 10 million people come to Sevierville each year to enjoy a plethora of fun-filled activities.

So, you can safely say that Sevierville is the ideal location for anyone seeking a unique and memorable vacation experience. 

Every traveler can find something to enjoy in the city of Sevierville, whether you want to engage in thrilling experiences or immerse yourself in the culture and music. 

What Are Some Vacation-Worthy Things To Do In Sevierville? 

Discover Sevierville’s top features as we guide you through a number of thrilling attractions that will make your trip genuinely unforgettable. 

1. Go On The Zipline At Foxfire Mountain Adventures 

If you are an adrenaline junkies seeking a thrill, you should really visit Foxfire Mountain Adventures. 

Additionally, it is home to the Goliath Zipline. This offers an exhilarating ride at speeds of up to 55 miles per hour!

As you soar 475 feet off the forest floor, you are sure to make some amazing memories gliding through the lush green views from this one-of-a-kind vantage point. This two-hour zipline tour promises an unforgettable adventure for those seeking an adrenaline-pumping experience amidst the Smoky Mountains. 

2. The Perfect Retreat After A Long Day 

After a long day full of adventure and excitement, you will need a place where you can kick back, relax, and enjoy some quality time with your friends and family. With over 1,459 hotels and places to stay, choosing the right hotel in Sevierville TN, can be taxing. 

However, looking at user reviews can streamline the decision-making process and help you to highlight the better choices for your stay. The Lodge at Five Oaks, for example, is voted number 1 on trip advisor and is an excellent choice for those looking for a stunning location with exceptional services.

3. Exciting Water Adventures At The Smokies’ Wilderness

If you enjoy water parks, then Wilderness at the Smokies is a must-visit destination.

This expansive resort boasts three distinct waterparks. So, it offers a plethora of thrilling experiences for all ages.

Also, you can see the “Wild Vortex,” a near-vertical, looping body waterslide. It will leave you breathless with excitement as you soar down at exhilarating speeds. 

The Timber Rattler is considered the longest tube slide in the entire state. It is further followed by the “Smokies Surf Rider,” which gives you an ultimate surfing experience. It will guarantee hours of laughter, joy, and endless fun. Families with little adventurers can also head to “Cubs Climbing Den,” an interactive playhouse designed to engage a younger demographic with the excitement of adventure. 

4. Take A Selfie Around The Statue Of Dolly Parton

A trip to Sevierville isn’t complete without paying homage to the Queen of Country Music herself, Dolly Parton.

Head to the Courthouse lawn at Sevier County, where a magnificent bronze statue of Dolly stands tall. Crafted by local artist Jim Gray over 30 years ago, this six-and-a-half-foot-tall sculpture is a tribute dedicated to the legendary performer’s roots. 

5. Discover Underground Beauty Across Forbidden Caverns 

Delve into the fascinating world beneath the Earth’s surface around Forbidden Caverns, boasting the longest rare cave onyx wall.

A guided tour will take you through a mesmerizing underground journey, passing unique formations with towering chimneys and grottos. 

6. Animal Encounters At “Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo” 

Embark on a unique animal adventure offered by the classic Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo, home to more than 600 animals and representing over 130 species.

Among the highlights are the adorable golden-headed lion tamarins, one of the smallest and rarest species of monkeys. 

Visitors can also meet other exotic creatures, such as African crested porcupines, poison dart frogs, and rose hair tarantulas.

This fascinating zoo offers a rare opportunity to encounter and learn about diverse and rare creatures from around the world. 

7. Breathtaking Panoramas From Clingmans Dome 

Breath taking Panoramas From Clingmans Dome

If you’re a nature lover or someone who enjoys hiking, Clingmans Dome should definitely be on your bucket list.

It’s an incredible spot, reaching 6,643 feet, making it the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and even along the entire Appalachian Trail. 

The hike to the observation tower is short but challenging, with a steep paved trail that leads you up to some breathtaking views.

Once you reach the top, you’ll be greeted with a stunning 360-degree panorama of the Smoky Mountains and the surrounding landscape.

On clear days, you can see for over 100 miles in every direction! Standing at this remarkable peak, you can really soak in the peace of the wilderness and appreciate the awe-inspiring beauty of nature. It’s truly a moment to cherish. 

8. Exciting Baseball Action At Smokies Stadium 

If you’re a sports fan, you’ll feel right at home in Sevierville when you visit Smokies Stadium.

It’s a great spot to catch a game featuring the Tennessee Smokies, the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs.

What really makes this ballpark special is the nod to the charm of Wrigley Field, creating a cozy atmosphere where you can really connect with the game and the players.

And the fun doesn’t stop between innings! You can join in on outdoor games and activities that keep the excitement alive.

Spending an afternoon at Smokies Stadium is more than just a game; it’s a chance to create some wonderful memories while celebrating America’s favorite pastime. 

9. Explore Ancient Treasures At Smoky Mountain Relic Room 

History buffs and collectors will find their haven at the “Smoky Mountain Relic Room.”

Step into a treasure trove of artifacts spanning over 3.5 billion years, representing various geological eras and human history. Browse through tons of relics as well as fossils, each with its own unique story to tell. 

From prehistoric fossils to ancient artifacts, this collection is guaranteed to ignite your curiosity and appreciation for the past. The epic Relic Room, nestled within “Smoky Mountain Knife Works,” also offers an impressive array of knives and blades, from historical pieces to modern marvels, making it a haven for collectors and outdoor enthusiasts alike. 

10. Tennessee Museum Of Aviation’s Sky-High Adventure 

Sevierville is home to one of America’s most prominent aviation locations; the Tennessee Museum of Aviation! This marvelous location is home to hundreds of historical artifacts and exhibits that bring the fascinating history of flight to life. You can even climb into an A-4 Skyhawk Cockpit and look at the world through the eye of an experienced pilot. 

The aircraft collection at this museum is stunning in its own right! Featuring airworthy warbirds and vintage planes, this museum is the only one in the U.S. housing two airworthy P-47 Thunderbolts. 

10 Vacation-Worthy Things To Do In Sevierville Explained 

Tennessee’s Sevierville offers visitors an unbeatable combination of:

  • Breathtaking natural scenery 
  • Fascinating history 
  • Exhilarating experiences 

Everything about being here is exciting, from paying homage to the legendary Dolly Parton to flying through the treetops. ‘ 

Whether you are traveling with family or seeking solo adventures, Sevierville offers an abundance of unique experiences that will leave you with cherished memories for years to come.

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Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

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BY  Ankita Nov 12, 2023

The appeal of life on the open road has captured people's imaginations for generations. While the classic road trip experience usually involves traveling by car, an increasing number of adventurous souls are answering the call of wanderlust by living full-time in RVs. Recreational vehicles offer nomadic travelers a unique way to experience new places while enjoying all the comforts of home on wheels. Here Are Seven Prime Reasons For Living In An RV Here are a few reasons more adventurers are picking up stakes to explore the countryside and beyond from the driver's seat of an RV. 1. Unconstrained Exploration An RV removes the barriers that often limit vacation travel by time or budget. Living on the road full-time lets you follow your curiosity wherever it may lead without the constraints of return flights, hotel reservations, or tightly scheduled itineraries. An RV provides the freedom to meander as inspiration strikes, soaking in hidden gems off the beaten path. 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Whether boondocking in national forests, hiking straight from the campsite, or enjoying scenic ocean or mountain vistas daily, the outdoor-centric lifestyle of an RV provides a natural way to appreciate and experience nature. Residents are essentially traveling through various natural environments rather than being isolated in houses separated from the natural world. This can have psychological benefits from reducing stress and anxiety. It also fosters environmental appreciation and stewardship, with RV enthusiasts serving as frequent visitors, volunteers, and financial supporters of public lands. Regular exposure to nature's restorative powers is a compelling perk for many who choose the RV lifestyle. 5. Flexibility For Remote Work With the rise of remote and location-independent work, living in an RV has become a practical option for many digital nomads and remote professionals. Working from an RV allows you to easily shift locations as your job, projects or heart may take you. From coworking spaces to scenic outdoor spots with strong WiFi connections, digital work is now fully compatible with life on the road. The flexibility to pick up and work from new destinations using an RV office is a huge advantage. No longer being tied to one geographic area expands career possibilities for remote professionals seeking a flexible lifestyle. When combined with a distributed or remote team, living and working from an RV becomes an attainable dream for many. 6. Community And Sense Of Belonging Despite the freedom of being untethered, living in an RV does not have to mean isolation. RV communities provide welcoming atmospheres for residents of all ages and backgrounds. Whether staying in organized campgrounds or communities centered around hobbies and interests, RV dwellers regularly interact and form bonds over shared recreational passions and travel adventures. Places like state and national parks become regular "home bases" full of familiar friendly faces. RV rallies and events foster a deep sense of camaraderie among residents of the road. Online RV forums and groups also help combat potential loneliness through digital companionship. While independence is part of the appeal, community remains an important factor for the mental and social well-being of many full-time RV dwellers. 7. Repurposing And Upcycling For some, living in an RV is partially motivated by sustainable ideals around reusing existing vehicles and materials. Upcycling pre-owned RVs keeps them on the road longer versus ending up in landfills. Older RVs can also come at much lower costs than new models. Modern amenities can still be incorporated through solar panels, portable power stations, and WiFi equipment. Interior upgrades allow RVs of any age to be repurposed for comfortable full-time use. Creative refits help extend the functional lifespan of RVs in an environmentally-minded way. 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READ MORE Great Barrier Island wildlife tours

Aotea Great Barrier Island Wildlife: The Ultimate Tours & Spotting Guide (New Zealand)

BY  Sibashree Nov 12, 2025

There are three instances I clearly remember from our trip to the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. The best thing about the Great Barrier Island wildlife tours is that they begin even before you board the ferry.  Here, I will start with some fun moments we had while exploring the wildlife of Great Barrier Island, then gradually discuss the details. So, let’s examine the rugged, predator-free paradise in New Zealand's Hauraki Gulf.  My Great Barrier Island Wildlife Tours: Some Stories That Have Stayed With Me With around 60% of the Great Barrier Island being a conservation area, the Aotea Great Barrier Island in New Zealand shines with sustainability certificates and its commitment to preserving the indigenous flora and the rare and endemic fauna of the island.  1. The Biosecurity Check  We were about to board the ferry to the Great Barrier Island. The Auckland Regional Council and the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) people did thorough biosecurity checks of our bags, and we had to clean our boots. Thus, they make a visitor part of the island's conservation effort.  This check is mandatory, and this is the reason the pāteke and kākā are thriving on the island. 2. The Dark Sky Sanctuary And The Great Barrier Island Wildlife Tours  Great Barrier Island’s designation as a Dark Sky Sanctuary has enhanced the wildlife tour experiences. We went out to see the Milky Way at night, and we stood quietly and listened to the sound of silence.  Suddenly, we were startled by the more-pork cry of the Ruru birds. Also, we saw the black petrels or Tākoketai coming back to their burrows.  3. Did I See A Chevron Skink? Did I Not? See, Chevron Skink also feels like a mythical species. These nocturnal species are the masters of camouflage. So, honestly, we did not see them with our naked eyes.  However, we could listen to the squeaks and grunts of the Chevron Skinks. It was thrilling knowing that we were walking through their only habitat in the world, which is protected by sanctuaries like Glenfern.  Why Is Aotea Great Barrier Island A Paradise For Wildlife Tours?  Afar, a US-based travel media brand, has named Aotea Great Barrier Island one of the top 25 off-the-beaten-track destinations in the world.  Aotea, Great Barrier Island in the Hauraki Gulf, is a designated dark sky sanctuary. So, it is ideal for spotting and listening to the nocturnal birds and animals.  Furthermore, the Department of Conservation (DOC) maintains 60% conservation land on the Aotea Great Barrier Island. As a result, it is the island of Firsts" and "Lasts.” It means that the island has birds such as North Island kākā and pāteke (brown teal), which are found nowhere else in the world.  In addition, the "Predator-Free" Secret of the Island is truly special. In the absence of stoats, possums, weasels, or deer, the rare and endemic species here have been able to thrive.  Along with all these endeavors, the Great Barrier Island has been successful in community-led conservation efforts, maintaining biodiversity and species protection. Here are the details.  1. Aotea Great Barrier Island Environmental Trust “The principle activities of the Trust are in protecting, enhancing, developing and maintaining habitats for New Zealand native and endemic species on Aotea Great Barrier Island, with a particular focus on pest management…” Founded in 2002, this trust has been an advocate for conservation policies, has coordinated many conservation efforts, and earned funding for local conservation projects.  2. Aotea Conservation Park  The 2,000-hectare Aotea Conservation Park with walking tracks, DOC huts, and campsites makes the island an ideal destination for exploring the wildlife.  3. Marine Conservation  The Aotea Great Barrier Environmental Trust’s Tai Timu Tai Pari” or “Sea Change” initiative aims to protect the marine ecosystem of the Hauraki Gulf. Furthermore, the Department of Conservation (DOC) has proposed to build a large marine conservation area in the northeast corner of the island.  In addition, beach clean-ups and educational programs have been effective local endeavors to preserve the marine life of the island.  4. Biodiversity And Species Protection  The island is a critical nesting ground for the black petrels. The Department of Conservation takes care of the nesting ground.  Furthermore, around 60% of the pāteke population in New Zealand is present on the Great Barrier Island. These birds are frequently spotted in places such as Kaitoke Wetlands.  You can visit the Kaitoke Wetlands just before dusk. Park at the end of the road, walk the flat boardwalk, and wait quietly by the main pond. You will almost certainly see and hear the rare pāteke (brown teal) as they come out to feed. Chevron skink, 13 different types of lizards, banded rail, and North Island Kaka are some other native species that exist on the Great Barrier Island.  What Are The Must-See Wildlife Attractions On The Aotea Great Barrier Island In New Zealand?  The Glenfern Sanctuary, Aotea Track, Kaitoke Hot Springs, and the coastal areas are ideal for spotting the unique and rich wildlife of the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand.  1. The Pāteke (Brown Teal) Pāteke is one of the rarest ducks in the world. The Great Barrier Island is a stronghold for these ducks, and you will find them in the Kaitoke Wetlands.  The Department of Conservation and Predator Free NZ Trust are two important bodies taking care of the conservation efforts to protect these birds. Habitat management and predator control are two main elements of protecting the Pāteke birds.  Now, you understand why biosecurity is so crucial for these adorable ducks on the Great Barrier Island.  2. The Black Petrel (Takoketai) This seabird breeds only on the Great Barrier and Little Barrier islands. They nest in burrows high in the mountains. The Glenfern Sanctuary protects a key colony of these birds.  However, the main breeding colony on Aotea is at Mount Hobson/Hirakimata. According to the Department of Conservation, around 900-1000 pairs of birds stay there.  These birds are featured on the IUCN Red List as a vulnerable species. Furthermore, they are identified as “Nationally Vulnerable” in New Zealand.  Moreover, there has been a conservation monitoring going on since 1995 to assess the population of these birds and how they are declining.  3. The Chevron Skink (Niho Taniwha) This large, rare lizard is found only on the Great Barrier and Little Barrier. It is almost like a mythical animal, and spotting it is very unlikely.  However, they mostly stay in the Stream-side forests. It is listed as nationally vulnerable by the Threat Classification System of the Department of Conservation.  The sightings of these lizards are so important that DOC asks you to report to the local office or call at +64 9 429 0044 whenever you spot one.  4. The North Island Kākā It is a large, intelligent, and noisy native parrot. It is famous for the loud "screech" and "chatter. I saw a few of them high in the forest canopy along the Mt Hobson track.  The Glenfern Sanctuary is another spot where you will find these parrots. The Great Barrier Island is an important habitat for these birds as it offers a predator-free environment.  5. Dolphins And Marine Life Aotea’s location on the edge of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, the national park of the sea, makes it rich in marine life. The Hauraki Gulf and the Great Barrier Island were both formed due to massive volcanic activity at the end of the Ice Age.  In 1769, James Cook named the island because of how it protected the Hauraki Gulf.  The water of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park has 22 species of marine mammals. Bottlenose and common dolphins are often seen from the ferry or playing in bays like Okupu (Blind Bay) and Whangaparapara Harbour. You may even spot Bryde's whales there.  Furthermore, seabirds are important members of the Marine Park. Black petrels are, of course, the most common among them.  Coastal camping is the best outdoor experience if you want to explore the marine life of the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. Here are some popular coastal campsites.  Akapoua Bay Campsite Near Port Fitzroy, Ideal for Spotting Pohutukawa Trees and Fishing Awana Beach Campsite, Ideal for Surfers Harataonga Campsite, Great for Swimming and Snorkeling Medlands Beach Campsite, Surfing and Picnic Spot  The Green Campsite at Whangaparapara Harbour, Ideal for a Serene Walk and as a Secluded Retreat Whangapoua Campsite, a Popular Surf-Break.  A Guide To Aotea Great Barrier Island Wildlife Tours: Species, Sanctuaries, And Different Types Of Wildlife Tours  During the wildlife tours, our primary concern was how to spot native birds on Great Barrier Island. Little did we know that we would hear them before actually seeing them flapping their wings.  We heard the screeching call of kākā as we were hiking through the Mount Hobson Track. Then, we saw a cloud of birds passing over our heads.  Nevertheless, it’s not just about the birds. Aotea, Great Barrier Island in New Zealand, is home to endless endemic species.  1. Specialist Day Tours & Sanctuary Visits The Glenfern Sanctuary of the Great Barrier Island is a haven for the endangered and rare species. It is an 83-acre regional park, and it functions as the “gateway to the 240-hectare Kotuku Peninsula of the north-west coastline of the Great Barrier Island.” Furthermore, the Glenfern Sanctuary Trust is committed to the preservation of the endangered flora and fauna and their habitats as you walk through the 2km loop track through a native bush to spot the birds and native species.  The black petrels and the ancient Kauri trees are the biggest highlights of this tour. The sanctuary remains open 7 days a week and from sunrise to sunset.  Moreover, you must hike through the Sanctuary and Loop Track to explore nature, wildlife, and the unique culture of the Great Barrier Island.  Sanctuary And Loop Track The Glefern Loop Track is one of the easiest Great Barrier Island hiking tracks. Here, you will have to walk along the Aotea stream and through the remnants of an ancient native bush.  The bush is protected by the Queen Elizabeth II National Trust of New Zealand, and it is rich in bird life. So, here, you will spot black petrels, Kaka, and Pāteke.  You can contact the regional office at 09 4290 091 to know about the further details.  2. The All-Inclusive Multi-Day Guided Walk If you want a more immersive wildlife experience, you must choose the all-inclusive multi-day guided walks. MoaTours and Go Great Barrier Island Tourism are two such services taking care of your accommodation, food, expert guides, and transport.  They focus on the best tracks, like the Aotea Track, Mt Hobson, and Kaitoke Wetlands. Furthermore, the guides are flora and fauna experts. For example, you can try the “Let’s Go Wild,” “The Aotea Track” package of the Great Barrier Island. Two of the main highlights of this tour are the wetlands and the unique wildlife.  It is a 3-day hiking experience, and the charge per person (adults) will be $541 (Standard Route) or $596 (The Windy Canyon Route).  MoaTours, on the other hand, organizes a 5-day Great Barrier Island small group tour, covering areas such as the Medlands Beach and Tryphena Harbour. The charges will be   $4,390 NZD for solo travelers and $3,890 NZD for twin travelers.  3. Self-Guided Great Barrier Island Wildlife Tours  The self-guided tours to explore the wildlife of the Great Barrier Island are ideal for an independent traveler. For example, you can go for the Glefern Sanctuary self-guided walks and learn about the biodiversity of the sanctuary, its conservation efforts, and more.  You can contact Steve, the manager of the sanctuary, at 0210826670 to be a part of these tours.  Furthermore, you can create your own Great Barrier Island wildlife tours by planning a visit to the Kaitoke Wetlands, Mt Hobson (Hirakimata) Track, Medlands Beach & Onetangi, and Windy Canyon.  How To Spot Native Birds On Great Barrier Island? A DIY Guide For Wildlife Tours  I have already mentioned the Glefern Sanctuary self-guided walks. Along with that, you can visit any of these areas for a perfect wildlife exploration on the Great Barrier Island.  1. Kaitoke Wetlands The Glefern Sanctuary offers a guided tour to the Kaitoke Hot Springs, located on the Mount Hobson Track. You can access the track from the Whangaparapara Road.  Furthermore, you will find a series of geothermal pools on the Kaitoke Hot Springs track. This area, maintained by the Department of Conservation (DoC), is a treasure hub for native birds.  Here, we had to walk through an easy boardwalk and gravel road to encounter pāteke and spotless crakes. And thanks to the new Kai swing bridge here, the route has now become wheelchair and buggy accessible.  Even when we were swimming in the geothermal pools, we could listen to the calls of the pātekes.  2. Mt Hobson (Hirakimata) Track The Peach Tree Track to Mount Hobson is the best route for spotting native birds and the wildlife of the Great Barrier Island. The route passes through regenerating forests, and these forests are home to a lot of native bird species, such as: Kākā Tūī: Tomtit (Miromiro) North Island Robin (Pītoitoi) Black Petrel (Takoketai) You can spot these birds in the dense native bush. Also, you can see them in large numbers near the high slopes and close to the summit. In addition, the 360-degree view of the island is a bonus you will love to count on.  3. Medlands Beach & Onetangi Medlands Beach and Onetangi are famous for coastal and nearshore wildlife like the paradise shelducks and little blue penguins.  Furthermore, wekas are common in these locations, and these are chosen as the reintroduction programs of the North Island brown kiwi.  4. Windy Canyon On the Windy Canyon hiking route, you will find conservation centers such as the Kiwi Park Queenstown. Here, you will find native species such as tuatara and Kiwi.  Furthermore, throughout the route, you will listen to the buzzing cicadas.  The Best Tips For Spotting The Birds On The Great Barrier Island  Dawn and dusk are the best hours of the day for spotting birds on the Great Barrier Island. “Dawn Chorus” is a real experience on the Great Barrier Island.  Once you reach the spot, be patient and wait quietly, as patience is a virtue for bird watching.  Keep your ears open. You'll hear the tūī's "click-whirr-gurgle" and the kākā's "screech" before you see them. Going nocturnal is a great trick for watching the native birds of the Great Barrier Island. That is why being a Dark Sky Sanctuary is crucial for the Aotea Great Barrier Island.  Carry a red-light torch and be alert about the "more-pork" call of the Ruru to spot the birds in the dark.  Talk to the staff of the hotel or the owner of the homestay you are staying in. They will have the best local tips about birdwatching on the Great Barrier Island.  How To Plan The Great Barrier Island Wildlife Tours?  There are three main aspects of planning Great Barrier Island wildlife tours. 1. How To Reach The Great Barrier Island? You can take a Barrier Air flight from Auckland to reach the Great Barrier Island in 45 minutes. You can even take the SeaLink ferry and complete a journey of 4.5 hours to reach the Great Barrier Island.  2. How To Move Around The Great Barrier Island? Renting a car or a bike is the most convenient option to move around the island. Furthermore, kayaking is an excellent way to explore the bays, caves, and diverse marine life of the island.  3. What Is The Best Time To Visit The Great Barrier Island Wildlife? From September to November, or the spring season, is the ideal time to visit the wildlife of Great Barrier Island. This is the nesting season for most birds on the island.  So, these months are the best for listening to the chorus of the dawn and the dusk.  Being A Responsible Tourist To Protect The Wildlife Of The Great Barrier Island Biosecurity is the most important aspect of the Great Barrier Island wildlife tours. The wildlife of the island is thriving as it is maintained as a sanctuary. So, by cooperating with the biosecurity checks at the DoC-approved facilities and cleaning stations, we have to be a part of the conservation effort.  The 3C policy of the biosecurity checks on the Great Barrier Island is: Check Clean Check We have to check our bags, gear, and shoes for pests (rats, mice, insects) and seeds before they leave the mainland.  Your Great Barrier Adventure Awaits The Aotea Great Barrier Island is a nature lover’s dream, with every nook awaiting a surprise with the native birds and their playful chirps. Furthermore, the Glenfern Sanctuary, Mount Hobson Track, and the wetlands on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, are a stronghold for rare and endemic birds and animals.  So, the birds are calling. Are you ready to answer? 

READ MORE Campbell Island

What Is Campbell Island/ Motu Ihupuku Known For? Tour Of An Isolated Sanctuary In New Zealand

BY  Sibashree Jun 30, 2025

Campbell Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to sea lions and many other species of endangered animals and birds.  However, the Department of Conservation (DOC) has identified that growing temperatures in this region and increased rainfall are posing threats to the rich ecosystem here.  “Extensive rainfall events and slips will potentially have the biggest impact on nesting birds. We’d also like to find out more about how sea level rise and storm surges will affect sea lions.” - Drew Bingham, Principal Science Advisor, the Department of Conservation.  It’s indeed a grave concern, as it is home to many marine and terrestrial animals and is even crucial for global environmental conservation.  Also, it has fascinating stories of history and human intervention to share. So, the changing weather conditions of the island put a lot at stake.  Nevertheless, Campbell Island is a popular destination for tourists seeking adventures in the subantarctic zones. Hundreds of people visit this destination every year.  And in this Tour and Travel Blog, we will discuss what’s so special in Campbell Island, a fascinating story of shark attack and survival, and everything else you need to know.  What Is The Best Time To Visit Campbell Island?  One of the best Subantarctic Islands of New Zealand, Campbell Island, is ideal for a visit from November to March. These months make the island ideal for traveling because of: Long daylight hours Mild weather and calmer sea Ideal for cruising along the coastline Great for spotting wildlife such as seals, penguins, and albatrosses Moreover, the temperature in these months ranges between 5 and 12 degrees Celsius.  Do you want to know more about the weather of Campbell Island throughout the year? Have a look at the table below. MonthsHighest TemperatureLowest TemperatureDays of RainfallJanuary13616February12714March11617April10518May9420June7319July7218August6419September7318October8420November9517December11616 What Is Campbell Island Famous For? Know Why It Is Worth The Adventurous Journey Captain Frederick Hasselburgh discovered Campbell Island in 1810. With time, it became an important location for scientific observation, whaling, and sealing.  It was also used as a coastwatching station after World War II. With time, Campbell Island became a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and today, it has emerged as a popular subantarctic region for the following reasons.  1. Dramatic Geographical Features  Area: 113 Square Kilometers Population: Uninhabited Shape: Oval Highest Point: Mount Honey (568 Meters) The uninhabited Campbell Island features deep coastal bays, rocky outcrops, and steep cliffs.  Further, thanks to its volcanic origin and the cooling and solidification of lava over a million years, this island has geographical features such as: Peat bogs Freshwater lakes  Volcanic craters Furthermore, due to its volcanic origin, this island has become home to many unique ecosystems uncommon in the subantarctic region.  2. Campbell Island And Its Rich Natural Heritage Campbell Island has many endangered species of plants and animals. They have contributed to the biodiversity of the island.  Campbell Island cabbage (Azorella selago) is the most prominent name when we talk about the diversity of flora on the island. It worked as a source of food for explorers and settlers.  Among the endangered fauna here, the Campbell Island teal birds are the most prominent. Other popular species are the yellow-eyed penguin, petrels, and albatross.  Furthermore, elephant seals, dolphins, and various species of fish here speak volumes about the rich marine life.  3. Conservation And Restoration Efforts In Campbell Island The New Zealand government established the Campbell Island Nature Reserve in 2001. It banned human habitation and various development works here.  Also, the Department of Conservation has played a critical role in protecting the delicate ecosystem of the island.  In this context, the rat eradication program from 2001-2003 has been a milestone achievement.  With all these conservation efforts, the island now has a growing bird population. Also, many other islands have taken Campbell Island as the benchmark for ecological restoration and development. What Are The Things To Do In Campbell Island?  A close interaction with nature and adventurous activities have been the best things to do on Campbell Island.  You can also enjoy a cruise tour along the coastline.  Things to Do in Campbell IslandWhat’s So Special about Them?Birdwatching• Southern royal albatrosses (Campbell Island is home to the largest breeding population.)• Black-browed albatrosses• Grey-headed albatrosses• Endangered bird species such as Campbell snipe and Campbell teal• Terns• Pipits• Giant petrelsA visit to the Campbell Island National ParkYou will love the tree ferns and orchids here. Zodiac cruisingCruise along the coastline to spot elephant seals and various bird species. Hiking to Mount HoneyOnce you reach the mountain top, you will love the panoramic view of the island. Hiking to Northwest BayIt is a 16-km hike to explore the natural landscape of the island. Col Lyall BoardwalkYou will spot Southern Royal Albatrosses as you walk the boardwalk.  Campbell Island Shark Attack: What Happened In 1992? Mike Fraser, a meteorologist from New Zealand, encountered a great white shark attack while snorkeling near Campbell Island.  The shark cut off his right forearm, and his left arm was also severely injured. After a dramatic rescue mission and a 2,000-kilometer helicopter flight, Mike Fraser was saved.  He then underwent prolonged medical treatment and got prosthetic arms. It’s great that he survived. Campbell Island: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about Campbell Island.  1. Can You Go To Campbell Island? Yes, you can go to Campbell Island. However, due to the remote location of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you have to visit the island on a guided expedition cruise. You can also visit the island on a helicopter.  2. How Many People Live On Campbell Island? There is no permanent human population on Campbell Island.  3. Is Campbell Island Predator Free? Yes, Campbell Island is predator-free. It had the largest rat eradication movement from 2001 to 2003. In May 2003, the Department of Conservation declared Campbell Island predator-free.  4. Does It Snow On Campbell Island? Yes, the high peaks of Campbell Island, with Mount Honey being the highest, experience snowfall during spring and winter.  Read Also: Exploring the Virgin Islands: Must-See Spots You Can Visit by Boat and St John Rentals Complete Guide To The Egadi Islands: What to See, Do, And Taste Paradise Islands: Discovering Italy’s Hidden Gems