Welcome to Falkland Islands (Malvinas)

The ultimate adventure destination, the Falklands Islands offer miles of pristine landscape and unfettered bird life to those hoping to harness their inner explorer.

Venture about the islands by 4WD or in a light aircraft with a local pilot who will introduce you to thousands of penguins, albatrosses and petrels. In the evening, cozy up in a traditional lodge or guesthouse and pepper the hospitable locals with questions about their life in this last great wilderness.

Unique Facts

• The British Overseas Territory of the Falkland Islands is an archipelago consisting of nearly 800 islands in the South Atlantic Ocean.
• There are approximately 165 times more sheep than people in the Falkland Islands.
• The Falkland Islands are famous for their wildlife, including thousands of penguins, elephants seals, sea lions and 65 percent of the world’s black-browed albatross bird population. The largest King penguin colony in the islands is Volunteer Point.
• Stanley is the main settlement – anything outside Stanley is referred to as “camp,” from the Spanish word campo, meaning countryside.
• The weekly newspaper, which comes out on Fridays, is called “The Penguin News.”

Language

The Falklands Islands’ official language is English.

When To Go

The best time to go to the Falkland Islands is between October and April when the temperatures are comfortable and the wildlife viewing is at its best.

Airports

Port Stanley Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid for six months beyond entry date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

None

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccine for all travelers when visiting the Falkland Islands: Measles and routine vaccinations. Most travelers should receive Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines. Some travelers should receive the Hepatitis B vaccine.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: type G. Standard voltage: 240V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: British Pound

Getting Around

There is a limited road network in the Falkland Islands, most of which require a 4WD vehicle.

Airport transfers into Stanley are by coach or minibus. Taxi service is available in Stanley. To cover larger distances, visitors may make arrangements with Falkland Islands Government Air Service. Chartered day trips by boat are readily available.

Driver’s License

A valid US driver’s license is required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy London
33 Nine Elms Lane
London, SW11 7US
United Kingdom
Telephone: +(44)(20) 7499-9000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(44)(20) 7499-9000
Fax: +(44) (20) 7891-3845
SCSLondon@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

Jetty Visitors Centre
Corner of Ross Road and Philomel Street

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

General Emergency: 999

Safety and Security

The crime rate is low in the Falkland Islands.