The Falkland Islands are one of the few places left in the world that can be described as ‘off the beaten track’. Most first time visitors are very pleasantly surprised: the climate is temperate (with the occasional strong winds), the scenery is breathtaking and the wildlife abundant.

For the safety of yourself and the Islands’ birds and mammals please abide by the Countryside Code. When approaching wildlife Keep Your Distance: for most this means getting no closer than 20ft (6m). At the breeding sites of Southern Giant Petrels, birds which are particularly susceptible to disturbance, the recommended distance is 55 yards (50m). If wildlife is distressed – you are too close. If you sit still and keep your distance, curious penguins will come to you.

Avoid blocking traditional routes used by penguins between their nest sites and the sea. This will cause them distress. It is dangerous to get between a sea lion and the sea, especially if you have disturbed a large bull in tussac grass. They may appear cumbersome on land but can move very quickly downhill.

Please take care when walking where there are Magellanic penguin burrows. You may destroy their homes or twist your ankle. Do not put your hand into a penguin borrow. Penguins bite and burrows contain fleas. Prion burrows are shallow and fragile. Avoid walking on areas where these birds are nesting.

Falkland skuas, South American terns, variable hawks and striated caracaras may attack people entering their territories. If you feel threatened in this way, hold a stick above your head and leave the area. Don’t leave your valuables unguarded when striated caracaras are around or they may fly off with them.

Wherever you go, respect the requests of the landowners and farmers. Take care not to disturb breeding ewes and their lambs especially in the spring and early summer (late October/November). A little disturbance, a gate left open or litter on the ground leaves a big impression.

Smoking is risky and banned on many sites where there is dry vegetation and deep peat. Fires can take hold very easily here and can burn for many months. Be especially careful not to introduce alien species on to remote islands. Make sure your footwear is clean and check your bags before arrival.

A Visitor’s Guide to the Falkland Islands contains general advice and descriptions of 19 top wildlife sites with maps, hiking routes and check list of flora and fauna. Plants of the Falkland Islands and Birds and Mammals of the Falkland Islands will help the visitor with wildlife identification. Further information and help with visiting the Islands is available at the links for Visitors and Tourists.