Things To Do
in Stanley
Stanley is the capital of the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas), a British Overseas Territory in the South Atlantic Ocean. The town is located on the eastern coast of East Falkland island and is the largest settlement in the archipelago. With its colorful houses, scenic waterfront, and vibrant atmosphere, Stanley is a charming and picturesque town for visitors to explore.
The town is also home to attractions such as the Falkland Islands Museum, Christ Church Cathedral, and beautiful beaches.
- "Hello" - Hello
- "Good morning" - Good morning
- "Goodbye" - Goodbye
- "Thank you" - Thank you
- "Please" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $120
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Stanley and get settled into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast to plan your day ahead.
Take a guided walking tour around Stanley to see key landmarks such as the Government House and Christ Church Cathedral. Explore local shops for unique souvenirs.
Dine at a local restaurant, savoring fresh seafood and traditional Falkland Island dishes. Spend some time enjoying the peaceful coastal views.
Head out on a boat tour to see local wildlife, including the famous penguin colonies. Bring your binoculars to catch glimpses of seals and sea birds.
Continue exploring the area by visiting Gypsy Cove to see the Magellanic and Gentoo penguins. Enjoy a packed lunch while you watch these adorable creatures.
Return to Stanley and relax at your accommodation. Venture out for a casual dinner at a pub, where you can mingle with locals.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful and rugged natural landscapes, ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife watching.
- Rich history and unique cultural heritage, influenced by British and Argentinean settlements.
- Strong sense of community and safety, with low crime rates.
- Stable economy supported by fishing, tourism, and sheep farming.
- Opportunities for adventure tourism, including kayaking, bird watching, and exploring historic sites.
- Remote location can make travel to and from Stanley expensive and time-consuming.
- Limited access to certain services and amenities compared to larger cities.
- Harsh weather conditions, with strong winds and cold temperatures, can impact daily life.
- Limited job opportunities, primarily focused in specific industries like tourism or fishing.
- Possible political tensions due to the ongoing dispute between the UK and Argentina over sovereignty.
Best Activities in Stanley
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of the Falkland Islands through various hiking trails around Stanley and the surrounding areas.
The Falkland Islands are a birdwatcher's paradise, with opportunities to see species such as the Black-browed Albatross and Magellanic Penguin.
Enjoy kayaking in the sheltered waters around Stanley, allowing you to get close to the unique marine life and beautiful coastlines.
Engage in both saltwater and freshwater fishing in the area, with opportunities to catch species such as cod and trout.
Take advantage of the clear nights in the Falklands to enjoy stargazing, where you can see a spectacular display of stars and possibly the Southern Lights.
Explore the rich history of Stanley through guided tours that take you to key historical sites, including the historic wharf and various military remnants.
Tours
Uncover the best of Stanley with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Stanley
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Stanley and the surrounding areas. Ideal for hiking and photography, particularly at sunrise and sunset.
While primarily a historical site, the views from the museum’s surrounding area provide a great opportunity to capture the charm of Stanley’s architecture and waterfront.
A tranquil spot with stunning coastal views and opportunities to photograph wildlife, including penguins and sea birds.
Located at the eastern end of East Falkland, the lighthouse provides a picturesque backdrop against the ocean, perfect for both day and twilight photos.
The harbour is a bustling area with fishing boats and yachts, offering numerous angles for great photographs, especially during golden hour.
Hiking the Two Sisters provides breathtaking views overlooking Stanley and is particularly beautiful during wildflower season.
Known for its unique rock formations and wildlife, this area allows for dramatic landscape photography.
Food in Stanley
Stanley Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Falkland waters provide an abundance of seafood, including king crab, mussels, and squid. Visit the Waterfront Fish & Chip Shop for delectable fish and chips.
Must-Try!
Try the traditional Falklands lamb asado, slow-cooked over an open flame. The Victory Bar & Grill is renowned for serving tender and flavorful lamb dishes.
Sample the unique Falklands calamari, known for its exceptional tenderness. The Malvina House Hotel offers a delightful calamari dish prepared with local flavors.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Stanley better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore Stanley Market for an array of fresh produce and locally sourced goods. During events and festivals, the market also features street food stalls offering diverse culinary delights.
Visit the street food stalls near the Malvina House Hotel for a vibrant street food scene, offering unique local specialties and South American-inspired snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
While English is the primary language in Stanley, being aware of local phrases, slang, and the unique accents can aid in smooth communication. Displaying interest in the local dialect shows respect towards the culture.
In the Falkland Islands, personal space is valued. Be mindful of keeping a comfortable distance in conversations and interactions, as invading personal space may be perceived as intrusive.
Participating in or showing appreciation for local customs, such as attending community events or celebrating local holidays, fosters goodwill. It's important to approach these occasions with an open mind and a willingness to learn about the culture.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Stanley with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Stanley
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Stanley, Falkland Islands is not customary and is generally not expected. However, if service exceeds expectations in restaurants or for guiding services, a small tip of around 10% may be appreciated. Visitors should observe local customs before deciding to tip.
Payment in Stanley is primarily done using the Falkland Islands pound, which is pegged to the British pound sterling. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, although it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases or in venues that may not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Stanley.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the warmest time to visit Stanley, with average temperatures ranging from 9°C to 12°C (48°F to 54°F). It is also the driest season, making it ideal for outdoor activities like wildlife watching, as many species, including penguins, are active and visible.
Temperatures begin to cool, ranging from 6°C to 10°C (43°F to 50°F). This season can bring unpredictable weather, including wind and rain. However, it offers beautiful fall foliage and fewer tourists, making it a quieter time to explore the area.
Winter temperatures can drop to around 1°C to 5°C (34°F to 41°F). This is the least popular time to visit due to cold and wet conditions. However, for the adventurous traveler, this season presents unique opportunities for birdwatching, as some species are more visible against the stark winter landscape.
With temperatures increasing to around 4°C to 9°C (39°F to 48°F), spring brings new life to the islands. Wildlife, especially seabirds and seals, become more active. It's a transitional season, so be prepared for varying weather conditions and enjoy the blooming flora.
Stanley at Night
Hiking in Stanley
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging hike offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the southern coast of East Falkland. It is the highest point on the island at 550 meters.
A scenic trail that takes hikers through unique geological formations and offers views of the waters between East and West Falkland. It's a relatively easy hike suitable for various skill levels.
An accessible coastal walk near Stanley, leading to beautiful beaches and opportunities to observe local wildlife, including penguins and seabirds.
A picturesque hike along the shoreline with the opportunity to explore sandy beaches and tidal pools. This trail is great for family outings and casual hikers.
A network of walking trails on the common land around Stanley, providing a combination of nature and local history with easy-to-navigate paths.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Stanley through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Stanley by plane.
The main international airport serving the Falkland Islands, located approximately 30 kilometers from Stanley. It handles flights to and from the UK and other countries.
Located in Santiago, Chile, this is the nearest major international airport offering connections to various global destinations. It is approximately 1,400 kilometers from Stanley.
Located in Ushuaia, Argentina, this airport is about 1,400 kilometers away from Stanley and serves as a gateway to southern South America and Antarctica.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Stanley, predominantly of British origin, reflecting the colonial heritage of the Falkland Islands.
Local residents, often descended from British settlers, with a distinct cultural identity tied to the islands.
A smaller demographic group, consisting mainly of individuals involved in business, tourism, or government-related work.
Includes small communities of various nationalities, such as Chileans, and individuals working in the islands from around the world.
The Soul of Stanley
Discover the essence of Stanley through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in the Falkland Islands, with many local teams and leagues.
Rugby is actively played and has a passionate following in the Falkland Islands, with clubs forming and competing regularly.
Cricket has a modest following in the Falkland Islands, with informal matches being played during the summer months.
Horse racing is a traditional pastime in the Falkland Islands, attracting both locals and visitors during events.
Swimming is a popular recreational activity, with some local competitions held throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Stanley.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While options may be limited, several restaurants in Stanley offer vegetarian and vegan dishes. The Waterfront Bistro and The Globe Tavern provide diverse options to cater to these dietary preferences.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find suitable options at The Waterfront Bistro and Shorty's Diner, both offering gluten-free choices on their menus.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Stanley with these cultural adventures.
