Getting around Falkland Islands: trains, buses, driving and domestic flights

The islands are large, the population is small and the road network covers only part of East Falkland. Almost every visitor moves by a mix of FIGAS flights, guided 4x4 and, around Stanley, their own feet.

Distances are short on the map but slow on the ground: gravel, peat and wind set the pace.

First, decide whether you are staying on East Falkland or flying out. If you want penguin colonies, albatross colonies or a lodge on a working sheep farm, you need FIGAS, and you need to book it with your lodge, not after. Seats are limited and the schedule is built around demand, so lodges and flights are usually arranged as one package.

Second, lock in your Mount Pleasant transfer. The airport is about 55 km from Stanley and there is no public transport; pre-book the shuttle or a taxi, because few vehicles wait on spec.

Third, plan your East Falkland days. A rental 4x4 gives you the most freedom on the gravel roads, but the last stretch to Volunteer Point crosses peat and should be done with a guide. For a single big day out, a guided 4x4 trip is simpler and safer than self-driving.

Fourth, if you are heading to West Falkland with a vehicle, book the ferry early. Sailings are limited and the crossing takes about 2 h.

Finally, keep a weather buffer. FIGAS flights are set the evening before and delays are normal, so never book a same-day international connection after an island flight.

Baggage on FIGAS is tightly limited, around 14 kg per person (check), and soft bags are easier to load. Pack for wind and rain rather than for a city: layers, waterproofs and sturdy boots.

Driving is on the left. Roads outside Stanley are mostly gravel, with gates that must be left as you find them, and livestock has right of way. Fuel is available in Stanley; plan any long loop around that.

Walking is genuinely useful in and around Stanley, including to Gypsy Cove and the Cape Pembroke lighthouse. Stay on marked paths near old minefield areas and obey the signs.

There are no toilets in the field, so plan day trips around that. Tap water is safe in Stanley; lodges advise on their own supply. Many shops shut on Sundays, and lodges generally close from about April to October.

Travel insurance should cover remote-area evacuation and small-aircraft flights; standard policies often exclude both.