Imagine a place where penguins roam freely through the wild landscape and albatrosses soar majestically over the wave-tops. The Falkland Islands, this remote gem in the South Atlantic, offer a rare combination of pristine nature, incredible wildlife, and a fascinating history – far from the noise of civilization.
During our trip, Expedition Antarctica – the great penguin adventure, we make a stop at the beautiful Falkland Islands before continuing our adventure to the wildlife haven of South Georgia and the seventh continent – Antarctica.
A paradise for bird enthusiasts
During our expedition, we plan excursions to remote outposts on the western side of the archipelago, which is home to many seabirds. Here, you can find impressive colonies of black-browed albatrosses.
Albatrosses form lifelong relationships and always make sure to show affection when they meet. Having the chance to observe these pairs, who tenderly groom and gently bill-clap to court each other, is a true wildlife experience.
Penguin islands
The Falkland Islands are famous for their penguin colonies, and you have the chance to see several species during your visit: Magellanic penguins nesting in burrows like rabbits, rockhopper penguins strutting along the beaches, and bold Gentoo penguins hopping right in front of you as you walk along the paths through the metre-high tussock grass. If you're lucky, you may also spot colonies of the majestic King penguins.
Unique flora
The Falkland Islands have a diverse and unique flora, despite their cool and windy climate. The dominant vegetation consists of grasslands, mosses, and lichens. Tussock grass is particularly prominent and covers large areas of the islands, often in tall clumps that give the landscape a distinctive character.
In more sheltered areas, a variety of herbs and shrubs also grow. The island's plant life is well adapted to withstand the harsh weather conditions, with many species being resilient to both wind and cold.
Paradise beaches
The Falkland Islands are known for their pristine and dramatic beaches, which stretch along the islands' coastlines. The white sandy shores are home to abundant wildlife, with penguins, seals, and albatrosses frequently spotted. Many of the islands' beaches are inaccessible to larger tourist groups, making them a sanctuary for wildlife and an oasis of peace and tranquillity. The rugged cliffs surrounding the beaches give the landscape an impressive character, adding to the unique charm of the islands.
Fascinating history
The history of the Falkland Islands is marked by territorial disputes between the United Kingdom and Argentina. The islands were discovered by European explorers in the 16th century, but it wasn’t until the 18th century that they began to be colonised. Britain and Spain had conflicting interests on the islands, and in the 19th century, the UK established formal control. Argentina made several attempts to assert sovereignty over the islands, leading to the Falklands War in 1982. After the conflict, the islands remained a British territory and are now part of the UK's Overseas Territories.
Charming Stanley
Stanley, the charming capital of the Falkland Islands, is located on the eastern part of East Falkland and is the largest settlement on the islands. This small town is known for its colourful houses, historic buildings, and cosy harbour. Stanley has a rich history, with an impressive museum that reflects both the islands' colonial past and the Falklands War of 1982. Visitors can enjoy local hospitality, stroll along picturesque streets, and experience a remote place where British influence is still prominent. Perhaps this will be the place where you enjoy the most remote fish and chips of your life?
