Often referred to as the “Galapagos of the South”, the wild, treeless landscapes and rugged coastline of the Falkland Islands are a haven for birdlife and steeped in history.
The remote Falkland Archipelago is located 560 km off the coast of South America, comprised of East and West Falkland plus a number of other islands.
The only town in the Falklands is Port Stanley which has the feel of a remote outpost and a population of around 2,000 people. The entire archipelago abounds with land and sea bird species, including Magellanic, Gentoo and Rockhopper Penguins and sometimes King Penguins, as well as over 70% of the world’s Black-browed Albatross. More than 227 species of bird have been identified in the Falklands, including five different species of penguins. The cold surrounding waters are full of whales, dolphins and sea lions, while the beaches are visited by breeding fur and elephant seals. Much of the Falklands’ wildlife is tame and approachable, which makes for incredible viewing.
For further tours to the Sub-Antarctic islands and Antarctica, please visit the Antarctica section of our website.
Highlights
Falkland Islands
5 different species of penguin
Called the “Galapagos of the South”, the Falklands are home to over one million penguins.
World’s Largest Colonies of Black-Browed Albatross
The Falkland Islands are home to 500,000 pairs or 70% of the world’s entire population of Black-browed Albatross.
Striated Caracara, Rare & Endemic Birds
The Falklands are critical for the conservation of the Striated Caracara, a bird of prey in the falcon family.
Elephant Seals, Sea Lions, Dolphins & Killer Whales
The seas and beaches of the Falkland Islands are inhabited by many species of marine life, including whales, dolphins, seals and sea lions.
Picturesque Landscapes
With its seemingly endless vistas, sweeping grasslands, and white-sand beaches, the Falkland Islands are paradise for nature lovers.
Sample
Itineraries
Our Falkland Islands suggested itineraries include a specialist wilderness and wildlife tour. Choose from one of our featured itineraries or let us custom design a tour to suit your to suit your interests, style and budget. To find out more about the type of Falkland Islands experience we can put together for you, please download pages below.
Wildlife of the Falklands
The Falkland Islands are renowned for the abundance and accessibility of its diverse wildlife. Nicknamed “Galapagos of the South”, the archipelago is home to five species of penguin, sea lions, elephant seals, whales and dolphins. Given the lack of human interference in their natural environment, the animals are unafraid of people and often approach visitors very closely, providing fantastic photography opportunities.
Falklands, South Georgia & The Antarctic Peninsula
These are the ultimate in Antarctic voyages, exploring the wildlife and landscapes of the Sub-Antarctic islands of South Georgia and the Falklands, as well as the Antarctic Peninsula. Step back into the heady days of polar exploration visiting sites of historical significance such as Stanley and Neko Harbour. See the largest King Penguin colony on Earth in South Georgia and experience the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Great White Continent.
Falkland Islands Overview
Why Falklands: The Falkland Islands features an incredible variety of flora and fauna, of which 14 are endemic and 173 are native.
When to Go: The islands’ climate is temperate, with frequent high winds. The average annual rainfall in the capital Stanley is only 600mm. Maximum temperatures rarely reach 24°C, while even on the coldest winter days the temperature remains above freezing.
Combine With: You can combine a visit to the Falkland Islands with a cruise to Antarctica, or an exploration of Patagonia.
Getting There: Visitors to the Falklands arrive by ship, often on voyages that also visit South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula, or they arrive by air into Mt Pleasant International Airport.
