| 4 mins read
Located off the east coast of South America’s southern tip, the Falkland Islands (known as Islas Malvinas in Spanish) are an archipelago in the South Atlantic Ocean home to some incredible wildlife, beautiful landscapes/scenery and an intriguing, yet slightly tumultuous history. If you’re planning on visiting this British-controlled Antarctic gem, here are the five main attractions of the Falklands Islands that you should not miss!
The Wildlife
Similar to the wildlife found in the Patagonia region of South America, the Falkland’s mild Antarctic climate attracts a vast number of bird and marine species. One of the most famous attractions of the Falklands is its large population of penguins. Charter a boat to the outlying islands to walk amongst these iconic creatures, or take a private, guided 4x4 journey to see some of the island’s most remote wildlife spotting destinations. Other animals that visitors can expect to see (on and off land) are elephant seals, sea lions, albatross and reindeer. For outdoor/wildlife enthusiasts, the Falkland Islands do really have some of the best animal spotting destinations in the Antarctic region!
Island Hopping
Journeying out and exploring the islands itself is one of the Falkland’s best experiences. Whether you’re boating out to West Point Island alongside a school of dolphins or viewing the islands from the sky during a flight-based island-hopping tour, discovering the individual islands is a must do for all visitors. With each island boasting unique and exclusive flora and fauna, every new stop along the tour is fresh and exciting. Whether you are looking for historical tours, home-stays, wildlife/outdoor-based tours or pure relaxation, island hopping through the Falklands can be custom made to fit your agenda.
Exploring History
From the British’s first landing in 1690 to the recent conflicts of 1982, there is much history to be found on the Falklands. In the capital of Stanley, tourists can visit colonial cottages, soak in the extensive maritime history or view the late 19th century Christ Church Cathedral (the southern most cathedral in the world). For a taste of both distant and recent Falkland history, visitors can pay a visit to the Falkland Islands Museum (in Stanley) or the historic spots of Goose Green and Mount Tumbledown (two key battle locations during the Falklands War). Another East Island spot, visitors can explore the settlement of Darwin in Lafonia to see where Charles Darwin once surveyed and stayed on the island.
Adventure Travel
For visitors who are looking to get a bit more hands on during their Falkland stay, the islands are home to some amazing outdoor activities. The different terrains of the island make for some great walking/hiking trails, with a few mountains that can be scaled as well. The highest peaks in the Falklands are Mount Usborne, Mount Adam and Mount Maria, all which have clear-cut trails leading to the top. For those looking for a lighter walk, there are a number of picturesque hills and walking trails throughout Stanley.
Another outdoor activity famous in the Falklands is fishing. Home to all different types of fishing (coastal and freshwater), both beginners and experts will have an unforgettable time angling in these waters.
A Taste of the Falklands
A final delectable experience when visiting the Falklands is sampling its local cuisine. With a long connection to the UK, most meals revolve around traditional British plates. Home to some excellent seafood (sea trout is a local specialty), you can find fresh fish filets or traditional British fish and chips all over the islands. Thanks to its strong farming community, only the freshest, locally grown ingredients will be accompanying your meals
Whether you’re looking to discover wildlife, seek adventure or have a historic island experience, the Falklands has it all. For the ultimate island tour, find a local Falkland guide to learn all about this eclectic destination.
Credits and License Details: https://flic.kr/p/55rarN (User: Matthew Goulding), https://flic.kr/p/imoTrv (User silvangrueter), https://flic.kr/p/8PHWh (User: Phil Gyford), https://flic.kr/p/WF3J (User Skinnyde), https://flic.kr/p/e4f1UK (yellow magpie, CC BY-NC 2.0)