Where Is Falkland Islands? Location, Map & Travel Info from the UK

Where Is Falkland Islands?

The Falkland Islands — often a topic of curiosity among UK travellers — are a remote yet breathtaking British Overseas Territory nestled in the South Atlantic Ocean. But exactly where is Falkland Islands, and why should you visit it? 

In this guide, we’ll explore the exact location of the Falklands, how to get there, key facts, and what makes it one of the world’s most untouched wildlife havens.

Where are the Falkland Islands Located?

The Falkland Islands are located in the South Atlantic Ocean, about 8,000 miles from the United Kingdom and roughly 300 miles east of the coast of southern Argentina. Despite their proximity to South America, the islands are a British Overseas Territory and have been under British administration since 1833.

Here’s a quick visual summary of the Falklands’ key geographic data:

Attribute	Details
🏙️ Capital	Stanley
🗺️ Location	South Atlantic Ocean
🧍 Population	Approx. 3,700 people
💬 Language	English
💱 Currency	Falkland Islands Pound (pegged to GBP)
🌎 Neighbouring Countries	Closest to Argentina (east of Patagonia)

The archipelago consists of two main islands;

1. East Falkland 

2. West Falkland 

along with over 700 smaller islands. The region is ideal for eco-tourism because of its untamed landscapes, long coastlines, and lack of commercial development.

Falkland Islands Map

The Falklands: A British Overseas Territory

While the islands are geographically near Argentina, they are constitutionally a self-governing British Overseas Territory. Residents are British citizens, English is the official language, and the legal and political systems follow UK frameworks.

The sovereignty of the islands has long been contested by Argentina, which calls them “Islas Malvinas.” However, in a 2013 referendum, 99.8% of Falkland Islanders voted to remain under British governance — a clear reflection of local sentiment.

How to Get to Falkland Islands from the UK

While the Falklands feel remote, they are surprisingly accessible with some planning:

Flights from the UK

There are no direct commercial flights from the UK to the Falklands. However, there are two main options:

1. Military Airbridge Flight

   • From RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire to Mount Pleasant Airport near Stanley

   • Operated by the Ministry of Defence (open to civilians)

   • Approx. 18 hours with a short layover in Cape Verde

2. Via South America

   • Fly from the UK to Santiago or São Paulo

   • Connect via LATAM Airlines to the Falklands (usually once a week via Punta Arenas, Chile)

   
   

Cruise Options

Some expedition cruises to Antarctica include stopovers at the Falklands — ideal for adventure travellers or wildlife photographers.

Why Visit the Falkland Islands?

The Falklands are a paradise for nature lovers. Here's why more UK travellers are adding it to their bucket list:

• Penguin Colonies – Home to 5 species including King, Gentoo, and Rockhopper

• Birdwatching – Over 200 bird species including albatrosses and caracaras

• Marine Life – Spot seals, sea lions, and even whales

• Untouched Landscapes – Dramatic coastlines, beaches, and hiking routes

• Low Tourist Footfall – No crowds, no queues, just raw nature

Want the best experience? We offers expert-guided excursions that bring you up close to wildlife in a respectful and unforgettable way.

Falkland Islands History

The Falkland Islands have a complex and contested history that dates back to the 16th century. First sighted by European explorers in the 1500s, the islands were later claimed by France (1764) and Britain (1765), followed by brief control by Spain and Argentina. 

However, Britain reasserted permanent control in 1833, which continues to this day. In 1982, Argentina invaded, sparking the Falklands War, which Britain won after 74 days. The islanders remain staunchly pro-British, as confirmed by a 2013 referendum where 99.8% voted to remain British.

(Source: Falklands Government)

Final Thoughts: Where Is Falkland Islands and Why You Should Go

So, where is Falkland Islands? It’s a remote yet stunning British territory in the South Atlantic, closer to Antarctica than to London. Far from the beaten path, it offers unmatched natural beauty, rare wildlife, and a deeply British cultural identity.

If you're seeking something different — something wild and authentic — start planning your trip. And for those eager to walk among penguins, don’t miss your chance with Falkland Premium Penguin Tours — the local experts in eco-friendly wildlife experiences.

FAQs: Where Is Falkland Islands

Where exactly is the Falkland Islands?

The Falkland Islands are in the South Atlantic Ocean, about 300 miles off the coast of southern Argentina and over 8,000 miles from the UK.

Is the Falkland Islands part of the UK?

Yes. The Falklands are a British Overseas Territory with strong cultural and political ties to the UK.

Why are the Falklands famous?

They are world-renowned for penguin colonies, unspoiled nature, and historical significance.