Highlights and main attractions of the Falkland Islands

Forgetting the instant association with its chequered history, the windblown archipelago of the Falkland Islands is actually a fantastic place to visit, each island with its own unique combination of stunning, desolate landscapes, curious wildlife and all with an air of sheer isolation and anonymity that belies the ubiquitous name.

Located to the southeast of South America approximately 480 kilometres, close to the Antarctic and Cape Horn, the infamous islands were discovered in 1520 during a Spanish expedition, before settlers from Saint-Malo arrived only to be chased away by the Spanish. Later populated by Argentina and conquered by Great Britain in 1833 they have long been the subject of well-documented power struggles, but the serenity of the landscape and position at the end of the earth could not be more aloof from this.

Falkland Islands Quick Facts

Flora: no trees have grown here, the ones that do exist have been imported.

Population: approximately 3,000 people live here- 90% of which are of British descent.

Size: approximately 120,000 km2 and there is only one town (Stanley).

Wildlife: five species of penguins live on the island as well as 80% of the world's Black-Browed Albatross.

Where are the Falkland Islands?

Wildlife and Variety

Comprising over 740 islands in total, most of which are uninhabited, this natural paradise is filled with rugged coastline interspersed with grassy tufts.The two main islands are East and West Falklands, with Stanley on East Falkland being the capital city, with picturesque hills as a backdrop and a relatively lively and colourful waterfront.

The wildlife to be experienced in the Falklands is undoubtedly abundant, with in excess of 227 bird species and 17 marine mammal species. Among the highlights are tufty rockhopper penguins, Volunteer Point is a true haven for wildlife, with the largest colony of king penguins outside of South Georgia, Magellanic, macaroni and Gentoo penguins, who are easily spotted by their distinctive orange crest. Lolling sea lions and seals can also be found lazing about, and Kidney Cove and Sparrow Cove are two great spots to explore and observe the flora and fauna.

Heading out from Port Stanley by boat, excursions out to some of the smaller islands hold huge appeal. For example; Carcass Island has its colony of striated caracaras as well as elephant seals or the southerly Sea Lion Island is where you can spot orca whales offshore as well as larger whales, from spectacular and idyllic white sand beaches.

Horse trekking to the sheep and cattle farm located at Crooked Inlet is also recommended.

Antarctica Accommodation Options

Hanse Explorer

This purpose built expedition ship is solely for the use of private charters, meaning your itinerary can be completely bespoke.

M/S Hebridean Sky

An intimate, ice strengthened expedition ship sleeping up to 118 passengers. A great mix of adventure and luxury.

Spirit of Enderby

This small ship has just 30 cabins and is great for getting to those narrower, hard to reach places in Antarctica.

Whichaway Camp

An incredible camp in Antarctica, Whichaway Camp is located by a 200 foot ice cliff, compiled of 6 en-suite and pod's for guests to relax in comfort.

M/S Greg Mortimer

Smaller than other expedition ships, the Greg Mortimer is able to access and explore places that larger ships can't reach. This ship is modern, innovative and luxurious, ideal for a thrilling yet comfortable Antarctica journey.

Magellan Explorer

Newly built for the 2019/20 polar expedition season, this modern vessel has space for up to 100 passengers and is perfectly designed for high-end voyages through Antarctic waters.

M/S Expedition

M/S Expedition is a 134 passenger ship with a gym, intermittent internet and a variety of cabin categories.

M/V Ortelius in Antarctica

Accommodating 120 passengers, M/V Ortelius is an ice strengthened ship. Comfy but basic maximising exploration.

M/V Plancius in Antarctica

M/V Plancius is a 114 passenger vessel exploring the far reaches of the polar regions, maximising your polar wildlife viewing.

M/V Sea Spirit in Antarctica

M/V Sea Spirit is a luxurious ship with space for just 114 passengers it is complete with an onboard restaurant, gym and outdoor hot tub.

Ocean Nova in Antarctica

The intimate & unique sister ship to the M/S Quest, Ocean Nova comfortably sleeps just 73 guests at a time.

Union Glacier Camp

The only temporary campsite in Antarctica, Union Glacier Camp is only accesible by air and provides a unique experience for the more intrepid traveller.

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