Getting Around The Falkland Islands
By Air
The main way to travel between islands is through FIGAS (Falkland Islands Government Air Service). They use small Brittan Norman Islanders that fly from Stanley. There is no fixed schedule; flights are based on demand. You book by phone or email a day ahead, telling them your destination and weight.
The airstrips are grass, except for Stanley and Mount Pleasant airports, which have paved runways. Private travelers can book seats, often through tour providers. The pilot balances weights before each flight. If you’re arriving internationally, all flights land at Mount Pleasant Airport (MPN) on East Falkland. From there, a shuttle bus or taxi takes you to Stanley, about 45 minutes away.
By Sea
The main ferry is the MV Concordia, which runs a few times per week from New Haven (East Falkland) to Port Howard (West Falkland). It carries passengers and vehicles, but you must book in advance. Wildlife trips and private yacht charters are also available, such as trips to Kidney Island. Large cruise ships visit Stanley and sometimes Volunteer Point, offering shore excursions to penguin colonies and battlefields.
Getting Here (Global Travelers)
The Falkland Islands are remote but accessible with planning.
From the UK:
The RAF Airbridge (AirTanker) flies twice a week from Brize Norton → Ascension → Falkland Islands. Civilian travelers can book these military-chartered flights through the UK Ministry of Defence. To book a flight please visit the following website:
https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/stations/raf-brize-norton/passenger-information/#how-do-i-book-a-flight
From South America:
LATAM offers weekly flights from Santiago (Chile) via Punta Arenas. These flights arrive at Mount Pleasant (Stanley) the same day.
Cruise Ships:
Over 40 expedition vessels and world cruises include the Falkland Islands on their summer itineraries. They use Tenders in Stanley to get passengers ashore and may use Zodiacs to reach the remote outer islands.
Booking Tips:
Connections are limited, so it’s best to book in advance. Specialised tour companies offer package deals that bundle airfare, transfers, and hotels. Visitors must also have onward transport booked and sufficient funds or documentation for entry. Domestic connections (FIGAS flights, ferries) should be organised ahead of time.
By Road
Both East and West Falkland have gravel roads connecting towns and farms. Most tourists join guided tours. Outside of Stanley–Mount Pleasant road, most roads are unpaved. Local guides lead day trips to remote sites, like Volunteer Point and battlefield tours. Car rentals are available in Stanley, but vehicles must stay on marked roads. The roads are rough, and a flat tire is common if unprepared.
Tours & Transfers
Many visitors use tours (4×4’s or foot) to visit wildlife colonies and historic sites. Cruise passengers can book tours independantly. Independent travelers can hire local drivers with 4×4 vehicles for a day or more. Weather and road conditions can change quickly, so always check with local operators before heading out.
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Get in Touch
Phone
00500 52946
Address
Stanley, Falkland Islands.
