Best things to do in Falkland Islands

• Capital: Stanley
• Language(s): English
• Currency: Falklands pound (FKP)
• Dial Code: + 500

Falkland Islands Travel Guide: Top Attractions, Things to Do, and a Whole Lot of Sheep

Looking for a wild, windswept adventure in a place most travelers can’t find on a map without squinting? Welcome to the Falkland Islands – a quirky, beautiful, and surprisingly British archipelago nestled in the chilly South Atlantic Ocean. This remote gem is where penguins outnumber people, and every scenic lookout is just waiting to become your next screensaver. If you’re planning a visit or just curious about life on these islands, this travel guide will walk (and wobble) you through the places to visit, the top attractions, and the many things to do in the Falklands.

So, where exactly are the Falkland Islands?

Great question. The Falkland Islands are located roughly 300 miles (or 483 kilometers if you're metric-minded) east of Argentina's southern Patagonian coast and about 750 miles from Antarctica. You’re basically halfway between penguin paradise and the end of the world. The archipelago includes two main islands – East Falkland and West Falkland – plus over 770 smaller isles that range from “adorable” to “are we sure this isn’t just a rock?”

With a total area of 12,000 square kilometers (that’s 4,700 square miles), there’s more space here than you might expect. What you won’t find are big crowds – the population hovers around 3,400. That means you’ll have plenty of space to yourself. Well, you and a few thousand penguins.

A quick history (featuring a few flags and a lot of drama)

The Falkland Islands have had more identity changes than a soap opera character. They’ve been claimed at various times by the French, Spanish, British, and Argentinians. Britain reasserted control in 1833, and despite Argentina’s ongoing claim (and a brief occupation during the 1982 Falklands War), the islands remain a British Overseas Territory today. That means the Union Jack flies high, people drive on the left, and the pubs serve a proper pint.

The locals – known as "Falkland Islanders" – are mostly of British descent and proudly identify as British citizens. They speak English (with a charming accent), and many families have been here for generations, although recent immigration from the UK, Chile, and even the remote island of Saint Helena has added some cultural spice.

Stanley: Capital of sheep and charm

Your Falkland adventure starts in Stanley, the capital and only real "town" in the traditional sense. Located on East Falkland, Stanley is home to about 2,100 people – plus more pubs than you'd expect for a place this size.

Top attractions in Stanley include:

• Christ Church Cathedral: The southernmost Anglican cathedral in the world, featuring a giant arch made from whale bones. You won’t see that every day.

• Falkland Islands Museum: A great place to dive into the island’s complex history, maritime heritage, and wartime past.

• Historic Dockyard: A lovely spot to stroll, take photos, and watch the wind bully your umbrella into submission.

Don’t miss a walk along the waterfront, where the colorful buildings give off a cheery contrast to the gray skies. And if you’re into quirky photo ops, the iconic red phone booths (yes, like in London) are perfect for your travel album.

Things to do in the Falkland Islands (besides dodging sheep)

Let’s face it – there’s no theme park, no Starbucks, and no high-speed train. What you will find is raw nature, wild weather, and unforgettable wildlife. Here are some of the best things to do in the Falkland Islands:

1. Penguin Spotting – The National Pastime

The islands are home to five species of penguins, including the king, gentoo, rockhopper, macaroni, and Magellanic. The best places to visit for penguin watching include:

• Volunteer Point: Home to the largest king penguin colony in the Falklands.

• Gypsy Cove: Just outside Stanley and full of Magellanic penguins.

• Sea Lion Island: A haven for gentoo penguins and – you guessed it – sea lions.

Don’t be surprised if a curious penguin waddles up to inspect your boots. They’re friendly like that.

2. Go Birdwatching – Bring Binoculars, Stay for the Show

The Falklands are a birdwatcher's dream. With over 200 bird species, including albatrosses, caracaras, and cormorants, your camera roll will fill up fast. Some birds no longer nest on the main islands due to invasive species, but the smaller outer islands are still bursting with birdlife.

3. Explore Windswept Wilderness

Hiking is one of the best ways to soak in the stunning scenery. Whether it’s climbing the rolling hills of East Falkland or rambling along the dramatic coastlines of West Falkland, the views are worth the windburn.

Some top hiking spots:

• Mount Tumbledown: Site of a famous 1982 battle and now a peaceful trail with panoramic views.

• Cape Pembroke: The easternmost point of East Falkland, with a picturesque lighthouse.

4. Take a 4x4 Safari

If walking isn’t your thing (or if the wind says “nope”), hop into a Land Rover and join a guided 4x4 tour. You’ll bounce across rugged landscapes, spot wildlife, and maybe meet a local farmer or two.

5. Get to Know the Locals – People and Sheep Alike

With more sheep than people (some estimate 150 sheep per person!), the Falklands are sheep-central. Sheep farming is a major economic driver here, especially for wool production. Don’t be shy – chat with the locals, many of whom are descendants of early settlers and love sharing their stories.

Top attractions in the Falkland Islands

Here’s your quick-hit list of must-sees:

• Volunteer Point (King penguins!)

• Christ Church Cathedral

• Falklands War Memorial

• Falkland Islands Museum

• Gypsy Cove

• Sea Lion Island

• Mount Tumbledown

• Cape Pembroke Lighthouse

Each offers a mix of history, nature, and photo ops – perfect for your sightseeing checklist.

Practical tips for your Falkland trip

• Weather: It's unpredictable, so layer up. Even summer can feel like late autumn.

• Currency: Falkland Islands Pound (pegged 1:1 to the British Pound).

• Getting there: Flights from the UK (via RAF Brize Norton) and South America (from Chile).

• Internet: It exists, but it’s slow and expensive – bring a good book.

Final thoughts: Why visit the Falkland Islands?

Because it’s weird, wonderful, and totally unexpected. Whether you're hiking wind-whipped hills, making eye contact with a king penguin, or sipping tea in a British pub in the middle of the South Atlantic, the Falkland Islands will surprise you at every turn.

This travel guide only scratches the surface of this remarkable destination. If you're looking for solitude, scenery, and a side of adventure with your cup of tea, the Falklands might just be your perfect getaway.