Visit Falkland Islands, Antarctica
Most well known in recent years for the 1982 conflict, the island’s major attraction is its wildlife, with penguins being one of its biggest draws.
Gorse, Carcass Island, The Falkland Islands
Falkland Islands
Antarctica
Around 500 kilometres to the east of Argentina lie the 700 islands that make up the Falklands.
Most well known in recent years for the 1982 conflict, the island’s major source of income was once sheep wool, but it is now changing to fishing and tourism.
East and West Falkland
The two main islands, East and West Falkland, make up the vast majority of land that equates approximately to the area of Wales. On East Falkland you will find the tranquil settlement of Stanley where the colourful assortment of houses are home to around 1,800 of the 2,000 strong population. A visit to the Falkland Islands Museum is recommended, which has informative displays on the conflict, as well as natural history specimens and historical everyday artefacts.
Wildlife of the Falkland's
Antarctic cruise itineraries do often change, according to the weather, but highlights include West Point Island, where you can sit and watch countless albatross circle commandingly on updrafts, before landing to feed their fluffy chicks. Nearby lies Carcass Island, where, thanks to its lack of rodents and cats, the vibrant yellow gorse is home to an astonishing array of wildlife from tiny tussac birds to giant elephant seals.
Penguins are one of the biggest draws of the islands and the punk-like rockhoppers can be seen on many islands, while a visit to the king penguins at Volunteer Point is a must.
Places within Falkland Islands