The Natural Environment

The natural environment is the essence of the tourist experience in the Falkland Islands. Wildlife encounters are very much in the wild and rarely shared with large numbers of other humans. They may be up-close-and-personal, with respect for the wildlife of course, or from the comfort of a vehicle as you choose. Penguins and marine mammals, including the world's largest pinniped, are guaranteed at many locations during the summer months along with a wealth of other species of flora and fauna. These are set against a backdrop of rugged mountains or pristine coastal areas unspoilt by development.

Photographers, bird watchers, nature enthusiasts, specialists, ramblers or visitors simply looking for something off-the-beaten-track will enjoy viewing nature at its best in the Islands. Charles Darwin’s visits in the 19th century helped inspire his theory of evolution later published as “On the Origin of Species”. The natural environment includes fossils, unusual geological features known as “stone runs” and minerals including the distinctive Falkland pebbles, attractive semi-precious stones found on some northern beaches.

See the Places of the Falklands for detailed information about the wildlife and natural features of specific destinations.

Download the Wildlife calendar produced by Falklands Conservation to find out what you can see and when (345kB)

Keep count of the many bird species you'll encounter during your travels with our Bird checklist (260kB)

Find out more about Falklands Conservation, the charity that has protected the wildlife and natural envrionment of the Falklands for over three decades from their website www.falklandsconservation.com