Yes there is so much to do on Falkland Islands, an adventure to the Falkland Islands is ideal for those looking for an undertaking that is really out of the way.
Natural life devotees will be excited at all these islands bring to the table -five penguin species, various types of seabirds, and diverse marine wildlife like; sea lions, sharks, dolphins, and whales.
A Falkland Islands visit incorporates strolling through wind-cleared landscape and along sandy shorelines, daily encounter, little plane flights in the middle of the islands, and relaxed bed and breakfast accommodations.
A week’s voyage through the Islands is not enough to explore all of its unlimited skylines, fabulous natural life, and untainted nature and wildlife sights.
What are the Best things to do in Falkland Islands?
Here is a rundown of all the exciting activities to do in here, in addition I will show you my favorite things to do and beautiful places to visit on your next holiday to Falkland Islands.
Stanley City
With approximately 2,900 inhabitants Stanley, the capital city of Falkland Islands is a very English town, charming, quiet and almost too perfect for security and you can visit on foot. The local population is typically English, hospitable, educated, and friendly.
Take note that prices are charged in British pound even if it has its own local currency called the Falkland Island pound which is accepted only there, however, prices are also practiced in American dollars with no problem.
Due to its distance from the mainland, the prices are a little high but nothing absurd that you cannot buy some interesting things.
It is worth hiring a local tour guide at the port in vans to see the Liberation Monument, Church Cathedral, Whalebone Arch, Mount Longdon, Museum Britannia House, and to meet the penguins in Gypsy Cove with an entrance fee of $ 20.00 / person.
Gypsy Cove is situated a few minutes but it’s good to go guard against the cold because the wind is very strong. Another interesting place to meet is the National Museum & Trust that owns objects and tells the story of the Falkland through the beginning of their occupation, the war of 1982 to the present day.
For those who like, you can visit also the Argentine cemetery. Many other tours can be hired at the port itself.
An unfortunate fact is that in many places a little further from the center is not allowed access outside the marked trails because there are notices on the existence of landmines, a legacy of war in 1982 between Britain and Argentina over the ownership of the islands.
My favorite stuff to do in Falkland Islands
1982 Liberation Memorial
In addition to natural attractions, the Falkland Islands are associated with an event that occurred more than 30 years ago, a bloody military conflict between Britain and Argentina.
The 1982 Liberation Memorial is dedicated to the historic events that transpired in 1982. On a guided tour, you will see several panels made in metal, depicting the victorious British troops – Avicenna, navy, armored forces, etc., and the names of the fallen soldiers.
All war memorials somehow resemble each other and this place is no exception. You will find it very interesting to visit this forlorn monument on the edge of the world’s islands.
Built on a nice location, it is a very sober monument to remember those who died in the war of 1982; a major event is held every June 14, the Day of Liberation of The Falkland Islands.
The memorial offers a strong sense of belonging and well rooted, like the memory of those who gave their lives to defend the autonomy and self-determination of a proud nation and its people. Especially memorable are the battle-reliefs that are still left standing here.
This memorial marks the end of the Falklands War where Argentine and British fought the islands. The victory of England marked the dependency of The Falkland Islands. This memorial details the name of the soldiers who died in the conflict. It is a symbolic monument to those killed in the Falklands War.
Although not very large, it is rich in details that are worthy of observation. It is also very informative, you will find a huge collection of photos about the Falklands War, and weapons used, and published newspapers during that time.
Don’t miss this educational site that is full of historical and cultural value about the Falkland Islands.
Fun things to do in Falkland Islands
Christ Church Cathedral
A simple and resplendent church with many memorial plaques inside. The church has lots of historical references including a commemorative plaque for the commander of the British ships that sunk in November 1914 led by the Navy under Colonel Graf Spee’s command.
The retaliation came a few weeks later in the Falklands battle, in which the German fleet was sunk and only the light cruiser Dresden escaped and took refuge – briefly – in the bay of Robinson Crusoe Island.
The bishop welcomes visitors with anecdotes of war and he is a knowledgeable one who can explain everything behind the creation of this church on this island. Once a visitor ship docks, the residents of Stanley are also on their feet to help and welcome guests to the important parts of this church.
It is a very beautiful cathedral with a friendly pastor who will not just invite and explain the history of this building but also allow visitors to enter his office and explain the history of the bishops in charge of this mission.
This wonderful church dazzles every guest with the dedication plates in memory of those who died in the Falklands War of 1982. At the entrance, one can see a kind of bow that is made from the ribs of a whale anchored in place for many years. Within the Church, it is all very neat and well-maintained even the kneeling cushions and stained glass windows are worthy of attention.
The building of the cathedral is striking in itself and can be seen from anywhere in the island. This picturesque and rustic church is in the heart of Port Stanley. On the outside, a monument made of whale bones shows how difficult life is on this island.
On the inside, Memorial plaque in stone walls tell the story of the island, since the first explorers to those who died in the Falklands War.
Popular Falkland Islands tourist attractions
Whalebone Arch
A little monument that stands outside of Christ Church Cathedral shows some of the hard life of fishermen in the icy waters of the South Atlantic. It gives quite an impression to see huge whalebone constructed along the entrance and garden of the church.
It was built approximately out of the jaw bone of 2 blue whales that were slaughtered along the waters of Falkland in 1933.
The small garden and church complex is the landmark attraction of Stanley City. For a guided tour, the cordial parish priest will gladly tour you around and tell you about the Anglican mission of the friars in this area and the history of this whalebone and its connection to the church.
Pictures can be taken beside the imposing symbol of hard work and perseverance for the townsfolk of the island, a tour of the adjacent garden is free of charge.
What else to do in Falkland Islands ?
Gypsy Cove
A visit to the Falkland Islands is a thrilling experience and something like being in a history book. As a tourist destination, the Gypsy Cove is an impressive and stunning place. The site is windy and cold but worth the flora and fauna where you can see lots of penguins and dolphins.
To reach this site, you must arrive on a bus that is contracted in the center which costs $20 round trip. It is a very nice beach with white sands inhabited by penguins. It is highly recommended go to this area and meet with nature, lots of wildlife, and the beautiful view of Stanley from the opposite side, it hurts that it is prohibited to go down to the beach because of the presence of mines in the area.
Nevertheless, it is still a gorgeous place that is worth visiting. Gypsy Cove is like a small gulf with a fence walker (you have to respect that the area was mined), the scenery is ideal, blue water, white sand, and the Caribbean Sea. The attraction is located right next to the Stanley Harbor.
Once there, it really is pretty cool. In addition to the beautiful views, there is a very easy trail to walk (even for seniors and kids) where you can see a fairly large colony (must be about 100) of Magellanic penguins. You cannot go to the beach, but you see easily the penguins. Some penguins climb the cliffs along the lookout where most tourists stroll.
Historically, the place was also one of the Falklands War of points, but what really counts in place is the nature aside from its historical perspective. It seems to be much faster and economical to take a tour of three hours (one way only) in a car with 4-wheel drive in bad ground to stay for half an hour back to get close to the distant colony of penguins.
The Cove is a landscape that is different from the rest. It is composed of beaches and rocks and if you visit before winter, you will see a lot of penguins. The place is easily accessible from the city and it is advisable to visit during the cold months of September to March because the penguins begin arriving in September right after the warm months.
Gypsy Cove is a beautiful white sand beach that is just a few minutes away from Stanley City. The assembly has a circuit where one can observe some penguins and the idyllic scenery. From this point you can admire; sea lions, gorse, the flightless steamer , the Falkland Thrush, and dolphins. Too bad the beach access is forbidden by mines.
You cannot overcome the fenced areas because of the cliff and so as not to disturb the large colonies of penguins. Also note the signs that point to the areas marked with the danger of landmines that were installed by the Argentines during the Falklands War.
Is Falkland Islands worth visiting?
The answer is Yes. Falkland Islands is worth visiting. This is because it is such a magical place
full of beauty and magic.
Don’t forget to visit the following incredible place:
Britannia Museum
A tour of the Britannia Museum is like taking a first class trip to the Victorian time because it clearly illustrates all the magic and richness of the British crown. It is situated to the northeast of the Falkland Islands.
The museum has in its collection; news clippings, magazine cover headlines, photos, carriages used by Queen Elizabeth I. There are no guides available here, therefore, one fights alone through the smorgasbord of exhibits shown which takes some time to understand, but then you will find a lot of interesting things about life and about the history of the island.
There are a lot of considerable spaces allotted regarding the 1982 conflict. Even the sinking of the Belgrano is well documented. It also shows a model shelter of the Argentine soldiers. The museum shows you the history of the 1982 war with vivid details and images.
The posters, objects, papers and artifacts on display allow you to feel the horrible story of war.
The star of the museum is the Argentine army Panhard 1982 (an armored war tank) that is restored and preserved which you can see and touch without even paying an entry to the museum as it is in an adjoining small park.
Then if you want, you can pay between 3 and 5 pounds to enter the museum, a house with things related to fishing and other antiques. It is an excellent example of a museum which recounts the life story of the islanders through history.
Here you can see everything about Islas Malvinas / Falklands from its origins, the first inhabitants, and its history, the passage of Charles Darwin on the island and a background of the 1982 war.
Must see places in Falkland Islands
St. Mary’s Catholic Church
Standing in stark contrast with the simplicity of the nearby Christ Church Cathedral, the St. Mary’s Catholic Church is modest, functional , and so personable. On sunny days, it is very bright inside. It is the only building with the type of structures it has in the front and in the back.
It can be observed perfectly from the Victory Green. The equipment of the church is simple but eye –catching in all wood structure. Although this church is small, it is very beautiful.
The church follows the style of simple and effective construction for the cold weather of the South Atlantic. A visit here is an absolute must while in the Falkland Islands.
What else to see in Falkland Islands ?
Battle Memorial
Dedicated to the battle of the English Navy against the German squadron under the helm of Commander Graf Spee which took place in the southern part of the islands on August 12, 1914, and for all the German ships that sunk in this territory.
It is said that only the light cruiser Dresden escaped, hid in the Chilean fjords and was found (with a damaged engine and without carbon) in front of the Robinson Crusoe Island and sunk by the British Army.
This battle is for the British of particular importance, but it is considered as revenge for the defeat at Coronel (Chile) in November 1914, when the British battleship Graf Spee 2 countersunk and claimed the lives of almost 1,700 soldiers.
The monument itself is made in the style of his time, it is within sight of the Liberation Monuments 1982.
Popular places to visit in Falkland Islands
Victory Green
After the 2nd World War, a green area named “Victory Green” was constructed from the harbor. It is here where most of the national celebrations are held like; the National Parade (e.g. the birthday of the Queen), welcoming of foreign dignitaries, marches and meetings.
The site is also used as picnic grounds. Here you can see native water birds, as well as remnants of the mast of a stranded sailing ship. Of course, it does not lack the guns, big cannons, and bas reliefs. The site also symbolizes the great battle of the soldiers for Falkland Island in the 1982 island war against Argentina.
Things to do in Falkland Islands with kids
Volunteer Point
A beautiful coast bursting with rich wildlife. This site holds the largest colony of king penguins in the Falklands and further colonies of the Magellan penguins and gentoo penguins, plovers, turkey vultures, caracara, gulls, cormorants etc.
This is the only place outside of Antarctica where the Queen Penguin colonies are located and there are about 1000 species of penguins making it a wonderful spectacle to enjoy. Being in contact with the penguins for a few meters and the beach of pure white sand makes this place a paradise.
A 4×4 crossing in the actual site takes about 5 hours from the city but it is all worth the time and effort. The experience of approaching within inches to the king penguins is simply unforgettable!
The Falkland Islands is an interesting nation to discover. Aside from historic corners, monuments, and memorials dedicated to the past wars, this country has perfectly preserved every site. Every attraction tells a thing or two about its horrible war memories.
The most exciting part to discover is the wealth of its natural resources. The wildlife conservation efforts are remarkable and the island have managed to keep intact and protected.
Although it is densely populated, the land is shared by its inhabitants with more than a thousand species of penguins and other wildlife animals making this country a true nature’s paradise.