Discover Carcass Island, Falklands | Guide to Carcass Island

Carcass Island is a true gem, perfectly sized for exploration with rocky ridges and steep hills to tempt the intrepid walker, gentle slopes and pretty beaches for those who prefer a sociable stroll.

The island has been a sheep farm for more than a century, but due to careful management it is rich in wildlife with songbirds, waterfowl, Magellanic and gentoo penguins and elephant seals. Sealions and dolphins are often seen. Fur seals can occasionally be found in the tall tussac grass. It is recognised internationally as an “Important Bird Area”.

Songbirds are plentiful here, including the inquisitive tussac-bird which will happily land on your shoes, the long-tailed meadowlark with its distinctive, joyful call and the endemic Cobb’s wren, easy to spot as it hops along the shores. But one of the most impressive birds is the striated caracara, also known as the Johnny Rook. Keep an eye on your belongings as this bird will steal anything it can carry!

One hundred and seven different plants have been identified on Carcass Island including the rare yellow orchid and hairy daisy.

Great walks from the settlement are in all directions. Choose from a quick but strenuous hike up nearby Stanley Hill or a longer ramble to the lovely Leopard Beach. Mount Byng is the highest point at 213 metres (700 feet) and has fantastic views. Continue to Elephant Flats to find the elephant seals.

The small settlement nestles into a sheltered harbour with breath-taking views to the glistening blues of the sea and the soft chalky-white outcrops of the Needles. Carcass Island House is a guest house providing homely accommodation and the chance to help out with a range of farm tasks if you choose.

Cruise visitors can gain a taste of Carcass Island which features on many itineraries. Landings are usually a short walk away from the settlement to allow a scenic walk, taking in much of the birdlife and finishing with a tasty smoko at the farmhouse.