Things To Do In Port Stanley Falkland Islands

Explore the Falkland Islands History And Wildlife

Port Stanley, located on East Falkland Island, is the capital city of the Falkland Islands. The archipelago consists of the main islands, West Falkland and East Falkland, along with over 700 smaller islands. Port Stanley Falkland Islands is a wonderful spot to stop on your South American cruise adventure.

Outdoor enthusiasts have been drawn to these rugged islands where #islandlife takes on an entirely different meaning.

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Penguin Safari

I was fortunate to partake in the ultimate Falkland Islands experience — a penguin safari. It was one of the highlights of our South America cruise. We visited the Bluff Cove Lagoon where you can get up close to their penguin colonies. Each penguin rookery was marked off with flags for protection, but guests were allowed to go up to the flags for an amazing look at these interesting aquatic flightless birds.

Viator offers a wide array of Penguin Safari options. You can peruse the list here and dream of your Falkland Islands getaway.

Penguins At Play

Get a glimpse of these silly and playful birds with clips from my penguin safari.

Stanley Harbour And Waterfront

The waterfront along Stanley Harbour is lined with charming cafes and shops. You can view a variety of marine life including penguins and sea lions. It is the perfect jumping off spot to explore the Falklands offshore islands. Stanley Harbour is a common stop for ships traveling through the Straits of Magellan and has a community culture that is closely tied to the water.

Do you love cruising? Visit Around the World Cruises and Grand Voyages for some inspiration.

Geology Of The Falkland Islands

The fascinating stone runs that dot the Falkland Islands landscape create barren, yet picturesque rivers of rock. A stone run results from the freezing and thawing cycles during the Ice Age where mass-movement of stone along with unique and particular weather conditions created these rock landforms

The island’s desolate, wind-swept landscape has been shaped by intense storms pounding the land of the major islands and outer islands.

Wildlife And Conservation

The Falkland Islands are home to a range of beautiful and interesting wildlife. The Cobb’s wren, the national bird, shares the islands with Branta geese, Gentoo penguins, King penguins, Macaroni penguins, Rockhopper penguins, Magellanic penguins and a wide variety of birds. On the shores and in the water you will find elephant seals, sea lions, whales, and other marine animals.

Exploring The Surroundings

The Falkland Islands draw outdoor enthusiasts who love camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Wildlife, history, Gypsy Cove, and other main attraction tours are available through Viator.

History Of Port Stanley

The Margaret Thatcher Memorial Bust by sculptor Steve Massam the plaque reads “They are few in number, but they have the right to live in peace, to choose their own way of life and allegiance”.

The island came under attack from Argentina on April 2, 1982, the beginning of the Falklands War. The conflict lasted 74 days ending on June 14, 1982 when British forces recaptured the islands.

The Falkland Islands are a self-governing British Overseas Territory. The island economy is driven by sheep farming, tourism, and fishing. Known as Islas Malvinas in Spanish, the islands are only 300 miles east of the Patagonian coast. They are also around 750 miles from the northern Antarctic Peninsula making them a desirable stop for cruise ships heading to Antarctica.

Many Falkland Island residents are of British descent. Where the island’s government is so far away from the British foreign affairs and defense oversight, the local residents and Port Stanley town hall representatives have a unique relationship with their South American neighbors.

Getting To Port Stanley

Arrive by sea on a cruise ship or private yacht and you can enjoy a sailby view of the stunningly rugged landscape. Alternatively, you can fly into Port Stanley from Punta Arenas Chile or from the United Kingdom with a Royal Air Force (RAF) charter.

Port Stanley, Falkland Islands

When you are visiting South America or planning an east coast sailing adventure, consider a side trip to Port Stanley Falkland Islands. It is a wild and rough waters type of lifestyle that requires strong and hearty constitutions. The residents are super friendly and grounded in their island lifestyle.

Happy Bucket List Adventures

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Baby Gentoo Penguin

The information provided here is an overview of types of adventures available. Travel With Sandi does not endorse certain tours or adventures — each individual should choose based on their personal taste and physical abilities. As always be safe, be aware of your surroundings, tread carefully, and keep your valuables hidden