Stanley, Falkland Islands: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know the Falkland Islands are home to five different species of penguins, with a combined population exceeding one million birds? This remote South Atlantic archipelago, where penguins outnumber people by nearly 350 to 1, offers one of the world’s most extraordinary wildlife experiences. Stanley, the charming capital of the Falklands, serves as the gateway to this pristine wilderness paradise where nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and adventure seekers can discover a truly unique destination unlike anywhere else on earth.

Overview of Stanley

Stanley, home to approximately 2,500 residents (about 75% of the Falklands’ total population), is a colorful settlement with a distinctly British character. Despite its small size, this remote capital packs plenty of charm with its brightly painted houses, historic buildings, and spectacular natural surroundings. The town stretches along a sheltered harbor on East Falkland Island, offering visitors an excellent base for exploring both local attractions and the wider archipelago.

What makes Stanley special is its unique blend of frontier town atmosphere and British colonial heritage. The unpolluted environment, clear blue skies, and stunning coastal scenery create a peaceful backdrop for experiencing island life at a relaxed pace. While Stanley may initially feel quiet to visitors arriving from major cities, it soon reveals itself as a vibrant hub with fascinating museums, welcoming pubs, and easy access to incredible wildlife encounters.

Getting to Stanley & Planning Your Journey

Reaching this remote archipelago requires some planning, but the journey is part of the adventure. There are two main routes to Stanley:

By Air

The most common way to reach the Falklands is by air. LATAM operates a weekly flight from Santiago, Chile with a stopover in Punta Arenas. This route typically operates on Saturdays. Additionally, the Royal Air Force (RAF) runs twice-weekly flights from Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, UK. These flights stop at Ascension Island and take approximately 18 hours. While the RAF flights were historically only available to military personnel and residents, a limited number of seats are now available to tourists.

By Sea

Many visitors arrive via expedition cruise ships that include the Falklands as part of broader South Atlantic or Antarctic itineraries. These typically depart from Ushuaia (Argentina), Punta Arenas (Chile), or occasionally from ports in Uruguay or Brazil. Cruise season runs from October to April, with December to February being peak months.

Best Time to Visit Stanley

The Falkland Islands experience a cool temperate climate influenced by the surrounding ocean. The best time to visit depends on your specific interests:

Winter (May-September)

The coldest months with temperatures between 0-5°C (32-41°F). While many wildlife species have departed, this period offers a unique perspective on island life and the opportunity to experience the Falklands like a local. Some accommodations and tour operators close during this period, so advance planning is essential.

Getting Around Stanley & Beyond

Stanley itself is compact and easily walkable, with most attractions located along or near the main Ross Road that runs parallel to the waterfront. For exploring beyond the town limits, you have several options:

Within Stanley

• Walking is the best way to explore Stanley’s attractions, with most sites within a 20-30 minute stroll of the center
• Limited taxi services are available for longer distances or inclement weather
• Some accommodations offer courtesy shuttles to/from the airport

Exploring Beyond Stanley

• The Falkland Islands Government Air Service (FIGAS) operates small aircraft connecting Stanley with outer islands
• 4×4 vehicle rentals are available in Stanley for exploring East Falkland (roads outside Stanley are mostly unpaved)
• Guided tours are highly recommended for destinations like Volunteer Point, which require experienced off-road driving
• A ferry service connects East and West Falkland between New Haven and Port Howard

Where to Stay in Stanley

Despite its remote location, Stanley offers a surprising variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences:

Advance booking is essential, especially during the peak summer season (December-February) when accommodations fill quickly with cruise ship passengers and other visitors. Most places include breakfast, and many can arrange packed lunches for day trips.

Dining & Local Cuisine

Falklands cuisine is characterized by hearty, home-cooked meals using locally sourced ingredients. The islands’ culinary traditions reflect their British heritage with some unique local adaptations:

What to Try

• Falklands Lamb – The islands are known for their exceptional quality lamb, which has a distinctive flavor due to the sheep grazing on native grasses
• Seafood – Fresh fish, particularly mullet and toothfish, feature prominently on local menus
• Diddle-dee Jam – Made from the local diddle-dee berry, this unique preserve is a Falklands specialty
• Smoko – This traditional mid-morning or afternoon tea break features home-baked cakes, biscuits, and other treats piled high on plates

Where to Eat in Stanley

Top Attractions in Stanley

Despite its small size, Stanley offers numerous attractions that showcase the unique history, culture, and natural beauty of the Falkland Islands:

Historic Dockyard Museum

The main museum in the Falklands offers excellent exhibits on the islands’ natural and human history. Spread across two floors, it covers everything from early settlement and maritime history to the 1982 conflict and Antarctic connections. Allow at least two hours to fully appreciate the well-curated displays. The museum is open every day except Monday, and tickets can be purchased at the entrance.

Christ Church Cathedral & Whalebone Arch

Built in 1892, Christ Church Cathedral is the southernmost Anglican cathedral in the world. This distinctive red-roofed building is open to visitors outside of service times. Just outside stands the iconic Whalebone Arch, assembled in 1933 from blue whale jawbones to mark 100 years of continuous British administration in the Falklands.

Government House

The official residence of the Governor of the Falkland Islands, this impressive New England-style building dates from 1845. While you can’t enter unless invited, the white picket fence and colonial architecture make it a popular photo stop. The house has hosted many famous guests and is home to one of the world’s southernmost grape vines.

Victory Green & Waterfront

This pleasant waterfront area offers views across Stanley Harbour and is perfect for spotting local wildlife, including seals that often lounge on the jetty. The area features several monuments and memorials related to the islands’ history.

Wildlife Encounters Near Stanley

The Falkland Islands are a wildlife enthusiast’s dream, offering some of the most accessible and diverse wildlife viewing opportunities in the world. Several excellent wildlife spots are within easy reach of Stanley:

Gypsy Cove

Just 6.5 km (4 miles) from Stanley, Gypsy Cove is a beautiful bay with white sand beaches where Magellanic penguins nest in burrows. The area features a marked walking trail that allows visitors to observe the penguins without disturbing them. Formerly off-limits due to landmines from the 1982 conflict, the area was cleared in 2020 and is now fully accessible. Look out for the Lady Elizabeth shipwreck in the distance and the WWII gun emplacement at Ordnance Point.

Yorke Bay

Another recently demined area, Yorke Bay is home to a thriving colony of gentoo penguins. The best time to visit is at sunset when many penguins return from a day of foraging at sea. The combination of penguins waddling across pristine white sand with the golden light of sunset creates unforgettable photo opportunities. A guide is recommended as 4×4 transport is needed to reach the bay.

Cape Pembroke Lighthouse

A full-day hike or drive from Stanley takes you to Cape Pembroke Lighthouse, the easternmost point of East Falkland. The 17 km trail passes Stanley Airport, Surf Bay, and several memorial sites. Don’t forget to collect the lighthouse keys from the museum before setting off if you want to climb to the top for panoramic views.

Volunteer Point

The premier wildlife destination near Stanley, Volunteer Point is home to the largest king penguin colony in the Falklands, with over 1,000 breeding pairs. The 2.5-hour drive from Stanley requires experienced off-road driving across untamed terrain, making guided tours essential. Besides king penguins, you might spot gentoo and Magellanic penguins, as well as sea lions. The stunning white sand beach and turquoise waters provide a spectacular backdrop for wildlife photography.

Historical Sites & Battlefield Tours

The Falkland Islands have a rich and sometimes contested history, from early settlements to the 1982 conflict between Britain and Argentina. History enthusiasts will find numerous sites of interest in and around Stanley:

1982 Conflict Sites

• Liberation Monument – Located on Ross Road, this monument commemorates the liberation of the islands and honors those who lost their lives in the conflict
• Thatcher Drive & Bust – Named after the British Prime Minister during the 1982 conflict, this road features a bust of Margaret Thatcher unveiled on Thatcher Day (January 10)
• Mount Longdon, Two Sisters, and Mount Harriet – These hills around Stanley were the scenes of decisive battles. Memorial crosses mark significant sites

Maritime History

• Lady Elizabeth Shipwreck – This iron barque, launched in 1879, now rests half-tilted in Whalebone Cove and can be viewed from the shoreline
• Jhelum Shipwreck – The remains of this 1849 vessel can be seen near the public jetty in Stanley
• Victory Green Mizzen Mast – The mizzen mast from the SS Great Britain is displayed on Victory Green

Early Settlement History

• Pioneer Cottages – These historic houses along Pioneer Row date from the 1840s when prefabricated buildings were shipped from Britain
• Jubilee Villas – Built in 1887 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, these buildings represent typical British terraced townhouses of that era
• Jersey Road – Houses built with money donated after the 1982 conflict from the Channel Island of Jersey

Outdoor Activities & Adventures

The pristine landscapes around Stanley provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. From gentle coastal walks to challenging hikes, there are options for all fitness levels:

Hiking & Walking

The Falkland Islands Visitor Centre offers a Self-Guided Walks brochure with detailed routes and maps. Popular options include:

• Stanley to Gypsy Cove Circuit – An 11-14 km circular trail passing the Lady Elizabeth Shipwreck and Yorke Bay before reaching Gypsy Cove
• Cape Pembroke Lighthouse Trail – A 17 km round trip from Stanley to the easternmost point of East Falkland
• Mount Tumbledown – This challenging hike near Stanley offers panoramic views and historical significance as a 1982 battlefield site

Fishing

The Falklands offer excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for sea trout and mullet. Many rivers and estuaries provide good fishing spots, and most landowners are happy to grant permission for fishing on their property. Local guides can provide equipment and advice on the best locations based on seasonal conditions.

Photography

With its dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and quality of light, the Falklands is a photographer’s paradise. The accessibility of wildlife means even amateur photographers can capture exceptional images. Consider bringing a zoom lens for wildlife and a wide-angle lens for landscapes. The ever-changing weather creates dramatic lighting conditions that can transform ordinary scenes into extraordinary photographs.

Day Trips from Stanley

While Stanley offers plenty to see and do, some of the Falklands’ most extraordinary experiences require venturing further afield. These day trips from the capital provide unforgettable experiences:

Volunteer Point

The premier wildlife destination near Stanley, this full-day excursion takes you to the largest king penguin colony in the Falklands. The 2.5-hour drive requires experienced off-road driving across untamed terrain, making guided tours essential. Besides king penguins, you might spot gentoo and Magellanic penguins, as well as sea lions. The stunning white sand beach and turquoise waters provide a spectacular backdrop for wildlife photography.

Kidney Island

A boat trip to this nature reserve offers the chance to see rockhopper penguins and a massive colony of sooty shearwaters. In the evening, you can witness the spectacular “shearwater storm” as thousands of birds return to their nests after a day at sea.

Goose Green

This settlement on East Falkland was the site of a crucial battle during the 1982 conflict. A visit here provides insights into both the war and rural life in the Falklands. The nearby Argentine Cemetery contains graves of fallen soldiers and offers a poignant reminder of the conflict’s human cost.

FIGAS Round Robin Flight

For a unique perspective on the Falklands, book a “Round Robin” flight with the Falkland Islands Government Air Service (FIGAS). These flights operate as “seat fillers” on scheduled services, allowing you to see multiple islands in a single day at a reduced cost. It’s an excellent way to appreciate the archipelago’s scale and diversity without the expense of overnight stays.

Shopping & Souvenirs

Stanley offers several shops where you can purchase unique Falklands souvenirs and locally made products:

Where to Shop

• Falkland Islands Company (FIC) – The West Store is the main supermarket and department store, offering a range of souvenirs alongside everyday items
• Visitor Centre Gift Shop – Located by the public jetty, this shop offers a wide selection of Falkland-made products with authentication labels
• Studio 52 – A boutique gift shop on Ross Road selling tasteful souvenirs, artwork, and quality gifts
• Philatelic Bureau – Located in the Post Office on Ross Road, this is the place to purchase distinctive Falkland Islands stamps

What to Buy

• Wool Products – Locally produced knitwear, including hats, scarves, and sweaters made from Falklands wool
• Penguin Souvenirs – Everything from t-shirts to soft toys featuring the islands’ most famous residents
• Diddle-dee Jam – This local berry preserve makes a unique edible souvenir
• Falklands Gin – Darwin’s Botanicals gin, distilled with local botanicals, is available from Falkland Islands Distillers
• Stamps & Postcards – Send a postcard with distinctive Falklands stamps, or collect them as souvenirs

Most shops in Stanley accept credit cards, but it’s worth carrying some cash (British pounds or Falkland Islands pounds, which are at parity) for smaller purchases or if you venture to outer islands where card facilities may be limited.

Practical Travel Tips

Money & Communications

• The Falkland Islands pound (FKP) is the local currency, which is at parity with the British pound (GBP)
• British pounds are widely accepted, but other currencies generally are not
• There’s only one bank in Stanley, though most establishments in town accept credit cards
• ATM facilities are limited to Stanley
• Internet access is available in Stanley and at most accommodations, though speeds may be slower than you’re accustomed to
• Mobile phone coverage is good in Stanley but limited elsewhere

Health & Safety

• The Falklands have a small hospital in Stanley but limited medical facilities elsewhere
• Comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage is strongly recommended
• The islands are generally very safe with minimal crime
• Outdoor hazards include rapidly changing weather and challenging terrain
• Some areas still contain unexploded ordnance from the 1982 conflict; these are clearly marked and should be avoided

Packing Essentials

• Windproof and waterproof outer layers – the Falklands can be windy year-round
• Layered clothing – temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day
• Sturdy walking boots with ankle support for uneven terrain
• Sun protection – the UV index can be high despite cool temperatures
• Binoculars for wildlife viewing
• Camera with zoom lens for wildlife photography
• British adapter for electrical outlets

Local Customs & Etiquette

Understanding local customs will enhance your experience in the Falkland Islands:

Cultural Awareness

• The Falkland Islands are a British Overseas Territory, and residents identify strongly as British
• Avoid referring to the islands as “Las Malvinas” or discussing sovereignty issues, which can be sensitive topics
• The 1982 conflict remains an important part of local identity and history
• “Kelpers” is a term sometimes used for Falkland Islanders, though “Islanders” is generally preferred
• “Camp” refers to any part of the Falklands outside Stanley

Social Etiquette

• Islanders are generally friendly and welcoming to visitors
• Don’t be surprised if locals greet you on the street – it’s customary to acknowledge people you pass
• “Smoko” is an important social institution – a tea break with cakes and biscuits
• Pubs are social hubs, especially on Friday evenings
• When visiting wildlife areas, maintain appropriate distances and follow guide instructions

Environmental Responsibility

• Follow the countryside code: leave gates as you find them, take litter home, and respect private property
• Stay on marked paths, especially in wildlife areas
• Maintain a minimum distance of 6 meters (20 feet) from wildlife
• Never feed wild animals
• Clean boots between island visits to prevent spreading invasive species

Plan Your Stanley Adventure

Stanley offers a truly unique travel experience that combines extraordinary wildlife encounters, fascinating history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re watching king penguins waddle along pristine beaches, hiking across rolling hills, exploring battlefield sites, or simply enjoying a pint at a local pub, the Falklands will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

This remote capital may require more planning than conventional destinations, but the rewards are immeasurable. Here, in one of the world’s last great wilderness areas, you’ll find an authentic experience far from the crowds and commercialization of mainstream tourism. Stanley welcomes adventurous travelers with open arms and unforgettable experiences.