Falkland Islands travel guide for Australians

Australian passports are accepted for entry. No visa is required for stays up to 90 days, but a Visitor Permit is issued on arrival at the airport in Stanley. The permit records your passport details and the intended length of stay.

If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, apply for a longer‑term permit through the Falkland Islands Government – the process is not online, so contact the Falkland Islands Office in London.

The Falkland Islands have no Australian embassy. Consular assistance is provided by the British High Commission in London. In emergencies, contact the Australian Embassy in Buenos Aires, Argentina (the nearest Australian mission).

A typical 7‑day itinerary (2 nights in Stanley, 5 nights in wildlife lodges) costs roughly AUD 7,500–10,000 per person. Main items:

• Return flight from Australia to Punta Arenas (via Santiago) – AUD 2,200–3,000

• Weekly charter flight Punta Arenas ↔ Stanley – AUD 1,200

• Lodge accommodation (mid‑range) – AUD 150–250 per night

• Meals, park fees and transfers – AUD 500–800

There is a weekly commercial flight from Punta Arenas (Chile) to Stanley (≈ 2 h). Most Australian travellers connect via Santiago (≈ 3 h) and then Punta Arenas (≈ 4 h). Total travel time from Sydney is about 30 hours including layovers.

Falkland Islands are UTC‑3 year‑round; Sydney is UTC+10 (or +11 in daylight saving), a 13‑hour difference.

Plugs are UK‑type G, 240 V 50 Hz – bring a compatible adapter.

Tipping is not expected; a 10 % service charge is sometimes added in Stanley restaurants for good service.

Emergency number is 999 (police, fire, ambulance).

Australians can stay visa‑free for up to 90 days. A Visitor Permit is issued on arrival at the airport in Stanley. If you plan to stay longer, you must apply in advance through the Falkland Islands Government.

There is no visa fee for the Visitor Permit. The permit records your passport details and intended length of stay. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months and have proof of onward travel or sufficient funds.

The Falkland Islands are generally safe for travellers. Emergency number is 999 for police, fire, or ambulance. There are no specific vaccination requirements, but standard travel health precautions are recommended.

Driving is on the left‑hand side. Roads outside Stanley are gravel tracks, so renting a 4×4 is advisable for island trips. Always carry a spare tyre and inform someone of your route.

The Falkland Islands pound (FKP) is the local currency, with GBP accepted at par. Credit cards are accepted in Stanley, but cash is useful in remote areas. ATMs are limited to Stanley.

Mobile coverage is available in Stanley and some settlements; check with your provider for roaming charges. Internet access is available in hotels and cafes in Stanley.