Day 1: Arrival in Stanley
After you land in the Falkland Islands, head towards Stanley, the capital. It’s a small town, so you’ll quickly get a feel for its charm. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and visit Christ Church Cathedral, the southernmost Anglican cathedral in the world.
Make sure to snap a photo at the Whalebone Arch, a local landmark made from the jawbones of two blue whales. For dinner, head to one of the cozy local pubs for some fresh seafood. It’s a laid-back way to start your journey and settle in.
Day 2: Explore East Falkland
Today, set out and explore more of East Falkland. Ride out to Gypsy Cove, which is about 15 minutes from Stanley. It’s a beautiful place where you can spot Magellanic penguins, especially between September and March. Be sure to keep an eye out—these little birds like to burrow in the sand near the beach.
The area is also great for a short hike with stunning coastal views, so pack a picnic and enjoy the scenic surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Falkland Islands Museum for a deeper dive into the history and culture of the islands.
Day 3: Volunteer Point for Penguins
Get up early for a full-day trip to Volunteer Point. This is the largest accessible colony of king penguins, with around 1,200 breeding pairs. It’s a long drive, about 2.5 hours each way, but the breathtaking penguin sightings make it worth the ride.
You’ll spend a few hours here observing the birds in their natural habitat. Make sure to bring a packed lunch as there’s no food available on-site. Afterward, head back to Stanley for a relaxing evening.
Day 4: Darwin and Goose Green
Start your morning by heading out to the settlement of Darwin, around an hour’s drive from Stanley. This area was a key site during the Falklands War. While you’re here, visit the memorials and the nearby Goose Green Battle site to learn more about the history of the conflict.
For lunch, visit a local farm in Darwin. You can arrange a farm tour to learn more about rural life in the Falklands. These farms are massive and give you a real sense of how agriculture works in such a remote area.
Day 5: Sea Lion Island
Today, board a small plane (flights are regular and easy to arrange) and head to Sea Lion Island. It’s a nature lover’s paradise and one of the best places to spot wildlife in the Falklands. Keep an eye out for elephant seals, sea lions, and Gentoo penguins.
The island is small but packed with viewpoints and serene spots for a walk. You’ll even have time to relax on the beach (though no swimming—those waters are COLD!). Many visitors spend the night here in the lodge, which is basic but comfortable.
Day 6: More Sea Lion Island and Return to Stanley
Before heading back to Stanley, spend the morning walking the trails on Sea Lion Island. There are well-marked paths to follow, leading you through different habitats. You can see Falkland thrushes, rockhopper penguins, and even orcas off the shore if you’re lucky.
After lunch, catch your flight back to Stanley. Upon arrival, you can check out some of the local shops for handmade souvenirs or just relax after several days of activity.
Day 7: Bleaker Island
Another day, another island! Today, you’ll head to Bleaker Island. Similar to Sea Lion Island, Bleaker is filled with wildlife, but with a bit more of a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path vibe.
The wildlife sightings here are fantastic, from cormorants to Gentoo penguins. You can easily wander through the island on foot, heading to Sandy Bay—a perfect picnic spot. If you’re lucky, you might bump into a local farmer or researcher who can fill you in on the island’s wildlife.
Day 8: Saunders Island
Saunders Island is full of history and wildlife. The first British settlement was established here, and today it’s a birder’s paradise. Plan a half-day hike to “The Neck,” one of the most picturesque spots in the Falklands.
Here, you’ll find colonies of large birds, including black-browed albatrosses. The dramatic cliffs of the island make for excellent photos. Keep an eye out for rockhopper penguins as well. Spend the evening in one of the modest accommodations on the island, giving you a chance to unwind.
Day 9: West Falkland Discovery
On your second-to-last day, take a flight or ferry over to West Falkland. This part of the islands is even less visited, providing a true remote getaway experience.
Spend the day exploring Carcass Island. It’s a wildlife and bird sanctuary. There’s a path that hugs the coastline where you’ll see dolphins jumping out of the water and more penguins. This is the perfect place to take your time and enjoy the island’s calm nature.
In the evening, stay at one of the quiet guesthouses. The hosts are usually more than happy to share stories about life in the Falklands.
Day 10: Return to Stanley and Departure
For your last day, head back to Stanley, either by flight or ferry. Once you’re in town, visit any spots you might have missed earlier, like the War Memorial or some of the local galleries.
If you have time before your flight, relax at a café and savor your last moments. Enjoy a final view of the harbor and the wildlife freely roaming around before your departure from these unique islands.
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