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Official name: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)
Capital city: Stanley
Official language: English
Population: Around 3,500
Currency: Falkland Islands pound (FKP)
Time zone: GMT-3
Driving side: Left
Climate: Cool, windy, and oceanic, with frequent rain and sudden weather changes
The Falkland Islands, a remote South Atlantic archipelago, are a British Overseas Territory known for their rugged beauty and extraordinary wildlife. Penguins, seals and seabirds thrive here, while the islands’ windswept landscapes offer a sense of isolation and tranquillity. Stanley, the small but lively capital, is home to most of the population and serves as the hub for tourism, fishing, and government activity.
The Falklands consist of two main islands, East Falkland and West Falkland, along with over 700 smaller islands. The terrain is hilly, with rocky coasts, open grasslands and numerous natural harbours. The highest point is Mount Usborne at 705 metres. The islands’ isolation and sub-Antarctic climate mean that the environment is largely unspoilt, though weather conditions can change rapidly.
Access to the Falklands is mainly by air from the UK via the Royal Air Force service or through commercial flights from Chile and other South American gateways. Once on the islands, travel is by small aircraft, 4x4 vehicles, or boat, as there are limited paved roads. Tourism focuses on wildlife watching, battlefield tours from the 1982 conflict, fishing expeditions, and walking holidays in the dramatic coastal landscapes.
UK nationals do not need a visa to visit the Falkland Islands. Visitors from other countries may require entry clearance, depending on their nationality. A valid passport and proof of onward or return travel are required. The islands are administered by the Falkland Islands Government in Stanley, and the nearest British diplomatic missions are located in South America.
The Falkland Islands pound (FKP) is the official currency and is pegged to the British pound sterling, which is also accepted. Credit cards are increasingly used in Stanley and larger establishments, but cash is recommended for smaller businesses and rural areas. ATMs are limited, and travellers should plan ahead when carrying money.
Healthcare in Stanley is of a reasonable standard, with the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital providing most services. Facilities outside the capital are very limited, and medical evacuations may be necessary for serious conditions. There is no malaria risk, but visitors should take precautions against the cold, wind, and changeable weather. Comprehensive travel insurance, including evacuation cover, is essential for all visitors due to the islands’ remote location.
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