Wildlife of the Falkland Islands
Key Facts
COST: We organise this expedition on a bespoke tour basis. We can set this itinerary up for private groups up to 10 people. The cost depends upon the group size. Please email for a quote.
START POINT: Stanley, Falkland Islands
END POINT: Stanley, Falkland Islands
DATES: To fit your preference. We recommend December – February, which are the best months for weather and wildlife.
This unique archipelago of nearly 800 islands harbours beautiful landscapes, fascinating history and friendly local culture. Many visitors leave agreeing that the Falkland Islands are among the world’s top “undiscovered” wildlife destinations.
Visiting the Falkland Island is far less expensive than the long (and often uncomfortable) voyages across the rough Southern Ocean to Antarctica and South Georgia. Yet the Falklands are home to many of the same species observed at these destinations and sometimes in even greater numbers. This is especially true for several species of albatross, sea lions and even some species of penguins (e.g. rockhopper penguins).
This trip offers many of the very best wildlife highlights that the Falkland Islands have to offer, and in the greatest levels of comfort and ease possible. This trip has been specifically planned with naturalists and wildlife photographers in mind, allowing a few days at key wildlife islands, giving the opportunity to observe wildlife up close and personal, and really take time to absorb and appreciate the amazing species that call the Falkland Islands home! This trip has a gentle pace to really absorb and experience these extraordinary islands.
Itinerary
GETTING THERE AND AWAY:
The main way of reaching the Falkland Islands is by flight, see www.falklandislands.com/getting-here
LATAM: operates a flight every Saturday from Santiago, Chile (SCL) returning the same day. International Tours & Travel Ltd (see www.falklandislands.travel ) is the sales agent for these flights and handles bookings.
RAF Flights: the British Royal Air Force operates twice weekly flights from RAF Brize Norton (a military airport in Oxfordshire, England). Civilian passengers can book seats on these flights via the Falkland Islands Government Office in London, see www.falklands.gov.fk/londonoffice/contact-us
ITINERARY SUMMARY
After arriving at Mount Pleasant Airport (1 hour out from Stanley), we will be transferred to the tiny, charming capital for a relaxed first day, involving an orientation tour to see the key sights Stanley has to offer.
On Day 2, we fly to Sea Lion Island and stay in the lodge. After an orientation tour, we have three full days to explore the island. It is especially known for elephant seals, as well as penguins, shags and many others.
We then transfer to Pebble Island for three full days observing the wildlife of that isle. Pebble Island is famed for its gentoo penguins and southern rockhopper penguins.
We then transfer and have two full days on Bleaker Island, to see a vast colony of imperial shags, striated caracaras, and many other birds.
Lastly, we return to Stanley for a full day trip to Volunteer Point to see one of the real starts of the show: king penguins (we have a private, guided 4*4 trip to a site with approx 2,000 pairs)!
On our final way, we transfer to the airport for our outbound flights!
Itinerary Highlights
