A lone penguin walking up the hill in the Falkland Islands
Lone Penguin
A lone penguin walking up the hill in the Falkland Islands

Lone Penguin

A lone penguin walking up the hill in the Falkland Islands

Top 10 places to explore on the Falkland Islands
King Penguins in Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
King Penguins
King penguins have colourful feathers around their necks and heads, this makes them the brightest of all the species of penguin, there is an estimated world population of 2 million breeding pairs with some estimates up to 3.2 million.

King Penguins

King penguins have colourful feathers around their necks and heads, this makes them the brightest of all the...

Falkland Islands (Malvinas) flag

Falkland Islands (Malvinas) Travel Information

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Key facts

Capital:

Stanley

Location:

Southern South America, islands in the South Atlantic Ocean, about 500 km east of southern Argentina

Currency:

Falkland pounds (FKP)

Area:

12,173 sq km

Population:

3,198 (2016 est.)

Languages:

English 89%, Spanish 7.7%, other 3.3% (2006 est.)

Religion:

Christian 57.1%, other 1.6%, none 35.4%, unspecified 6% (2016 est.)

TimeZone:

UTC-4

Tel Code:

+500

Things to Do

  • 1. Penguin Watching Tour

    Get up close and personal with various species of penguins in their natural habitat. Learn about their behavior and conservation efforts.

  • 2. Hiking in Volunteer Point

    Explore the stunning landscapes of Volunteer Point on a guided hike. Observe the diverse flora and fauna, including seabirds and sea lions.

  • 3. Dolphin and Seal Safari

    Embark on a thrilling boat safari to spot dolphins and seals in their natural habitat. Enjoy the breathtaking coastal scenery along the way.

  • 4. Battlefield Tour

    Discover the history of the Falkland Islands through a guided tour of the battlefields. Learn about the conflicts and their impact on the islands.

  • 5. Fishing Excursion

    Experience the thrill of fishing in the rich waters of the Falkland Islands. Catch a variety of fish species and enjoy the serene surroundings.

  • 6. Wildlife Photography Workshop

    Join a professional wildlife photographer to learn the art of capturing stunning wildlife photos. Explore scenic locations and hone your photography skills.

  • 7. Kayaking Adventure

    Navigate through picturesque fjords and coastline on a thrilling kayaking adventure. Encounter diverse marine life and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

  • 8. Bird Watching Expedition

    Embark on a bird watching expedition to spot rare and endemic bird species in their natural habitats. Learn about their migration patterns and behaviors.

  • 9. Whale Watching Tour

    Set sail on a boat tour to observe magnificent whales in the waters surrounding the Falkland Islands. Learn about their behavior and conservation.

  • 10. Camping Under the Southern Sky

    Experience the magic of camping under the starry southern sky. Enjoy the peacefulness of nature and the breathtaking views.

Weather

Climate

The Falkland Islands have a cool and temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and cool summers. The average temperature ranges from around 41°F (5°C) in the winter to around 55°F (13°C) in the summer. Rainfall is relatively low, with an average of around 17 inches (430mm) per year.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Falkland Islands depends on what you're looking to see and do. The summer months of December to March are the warmest and driest, making them the best time to visit if you're looking to go hiking and explore the outdoors. This is also the best time to see the wildlife, as many species of birds and animals breed during this time.

The winter months of June to September are the best time to visit if you're looking to see the penguins and seals, as many of these species breed during this time. This is also the best time to see the whales, as they migrate through the waters around the islands during this time.

Overall, the Falkland Islands can be visited all year round, but it is important to keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable and can change quickly, so visitors should be prepared for all eventualities.

Accommodation

Hotels

The Falkland Islands have a limited number of hotels available for visitors, many of which are located in Stanley, the capital city. These range from budget-friendly options to more luxurious accommodations.

Guest Houses and B&Bs

There are also several guest houses and B&Bs available for visitors to the Falkland Islands. These can be a great option for those looking for a more personal and homely experience.

Self-Catering Accommodations

Self-catering accommodations, such as apartments and cottages, are also available for visitors to the Falkland Islands. These can be a great option for families or groups of friends traveling together, as they offer more privacy and flexibility.

Camping

Camping is also an option for visitors to the Falkland Islands, although it is more limited than other options. There are several campgrounds available, but they are mostly located outside of Stanley, and usually, don't have many amenities.

Estancias

Estancias are traditional farmhouses, and some of them have been converted into guesthouses, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the Falkland Islands' rural culture and natural beauty.

Transportation

Air

The main airport in the Falkland Islands is Mount Pleasant Airport, located about 40 miles (60km) from Stanley. There are flights from major cities in South America and also from Punta Arenas, Chile.

Bus

Buses are available in the Falkland Islands, but they are limited, they mostly provide transportation between Stanley and the Mount Pleasant Airport.

Car Rental

Car rental is also an option for visitors to the Falkland Islands, although it is limited. There are several car rental companies available, but they are mostly located in Stanley.

Taxis

Taxis are available in the Falkland Islands, but they are limited, they mostly provide transportation between Stanley and the Mount Pleasant Airport.

Boat

There are no regular boat services in the Falkland Islands, but visitors can hire boats to explore the coast and see the wildlife. There are also several companies that offer boat trips to see penguins and seals colonies.

Trekking

The Falkland Islands offer some of the best hiking in the world, with trails that take visitors through rugged landscapes and past stunning vistas. Visitors can also explore the islands by bike, horseback, or even kayak.

Money

Currency

  • The currency of Falkland Islands (Malvinas) is Falkland Islands pound (FKP).

Cash And Cards

  • Credit cards are widely accepted in Falkland Islands (Malvinas).
  • It is recommended to carry some cash as not all places accept cards.

ATMs

  • ATMs are available in Stanley, the capital of Falkland Islands (Malvinas).
  • It is advisable to withdraw cash in Stanley as ATMs may be limited in other areas.

Tipping

  • Tipping is not expected or necessary in Falkland Islands (Malvinas).
  • However, if you receive exceptional service, you can leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation.

Cost Of Living

  • The cost of living in Falkland Islands (Malvinas) is relatively high.
  • Accommodation, dining, and transportation can be expensive.

Scams

  • Falkland Islands (Malvinas) is generally safe and there are no major scams to be aware of.
  • However, it is always recommended to exercise caution and keep an eye on your belongings.