The Falkland Islands are a remarkable destination rich in history, natural beauty, wildlife, and culture. Situated at 52˚ south, just 584 miles (940 km) from Antarctica (Elephant Island), the Falklands are an archipelago consisting of two main islands (East and West Falkland) and over 740 smaller islands ranging from surf-dashed rocks to 40,000-acre farms.
Minimal development and infrastructure means that visitors can experience the abundant wildlife that draws specialists from all over the globe. With around 1 million penguins across five breeding species, the Falklands are the ultimate place to view penguins. The Islands are also home to vast colonies of sea birds, including the world’s largest population of black-browed albatross. While the Falklands are well known as an unspoilt wildlife destination, visitors may be surprised by the advancements and successes the country displays in other areas.
The Falkland Islands have developed into a successful, progressive and largely self-sufficient country capable of competing on the world stage in fishing and agricultural practices, tourism, alternative energy generation and wildlife conservation and research.
Television and Film
You may already have seen the Falklands featured on television or film. Falklands’ residents, both the wildlife and the people, are frequently captured by visiting television crews with a diversity of interests. The natural environment is the most popular theme but recently programmes have included fishing opportunities, with some whacky ideas, studies of Islands' life and various topics linked to the 1982 war.
Famous People
The Falklands lay claim to many famous visitors. From members of the UK Royal family to ex-Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and television personalities, there are many well-known people who have enjoyed Falkland hospitality and attractions, from the 1982 battlefields to the wonderful wildlife. Her Royal Highness, Princess Anne and Vice-Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence have made many visits to the Islands and made a recent tour as part of the 40th anniversary commemorations. The Princess Royal laid a wreath at the Liberation Memorial as well as meeting and greeting the people of the Islands and touring various points of interest.
Step back further in time and discover eminent individuals who spent time here including the naturalist Charles Darwin and explorer Ernest Shackleton who passed through whilst organising the rescue of his men from Elephant Island. Subsequently, Lord Edward Shackleton, who had a special interest in the Falklands from his father’s earlier involvement, was commissioned by the British Government to write a development report in 1976. His recommendations were eventually taken forward and by the early 1990s were either fully implemented on well on the way. He was instrumental in enhancing initiative in the Islands, setting stable and secure foundations for the prosperity enjoyed today.
Meet the Falklanders
You can also meet some great local characters. Over half of the Falklands’ population is made up of people born and brought up in the archipelago. Many others arrived in the Islands for what they expected to be just a short-term contract, but enjoyed the way of life so much that they settled permanently and are pleased to call the Falkland Islands their home. In the census of 2021, over sixty different nationalities registered as living here.
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