Volunteer Point

King Penguin colony 80 km from Stanley — the islands' iconic excursion

Address Volunteer Point, East Falkland

The Falklands' single most famous wildlife site — a windswept beach 80 km north-east of Stanley that hosts the largest accessible King Penguin colony on the planet. Several hundred adult kings stand in groups along the white sand, brown chicks at their feet, while Magellanic and Gentoo penguins nest behind the beach.

The drive from Stanley takes two to three hours, the last hour over roadless peat track that requires a 4WD vehicle. Local tour operators run day trips with drivers experienced on the route; do not attempt the drive yourself without local guidance. Take warm waterproof clothing — the weather changes fast.

things to do landmark
A story
The Volunteer Point colony is the largest accessible King Penguin breeding site in the world outside South Georgia, with over 1,500 breeding pairs. The colony has been growing steadily since the 1960s, having recolonised from larger Antarctic populations.