Yorke Bay Penguin Colony | Visit Gentoo Penguins in the Falkland Islands

Where is Yorke Bay Penguin Colony?

Nestled just a few kilometres northeast of Stanley, the Yorke Bay Penguin Colony is a pristine stretch of white-sand beach located on the east coast of East Falkland. 

Though once off-limits due to post-war landmines, Yorke Bay was declared safe in 2020 and has since reopened to visitors — becoming one of the most scenic and accessible wildlife watching areas in the Falklands.

Learn more about the island’s location and geography in our guide: Where is Falkland Islands

Meet the Locals: Gentoo Penguins in Yorke Bay

Yorke Bay is home to a thriving colony of Gentoo penguins, known for their striking orange beaks and charming waddle. There are over 300 breeding pairs of gentoos and sometimes a few king penguins do visit the area.

These curious birds often nest in dunes just behind the beach and are active year-round.

Fun Facts About Gentoo Penguins at Yorke Bay:

• Breeding Season: October–February

• Most Active Times: Early morning & late afternoon

• Colony Size: Hundreds of pairs during peak season

• Nesting Habitat: Coastal dunes with open visibility

You’ll often see adults feeding chicks, grooming, or waddling into the water — a dream for wildlife photographers and nature lovers.

These curious birds often nest in dunes just behind the beach and are active year-round.

Why Visit Yorke Bay?

Yorke Bay isn’t just about penguins. It offers a rare blend of wildlife, serenity, and coastal beauty:

• Stunning white-sand beaches – soft, clean, and uncrowded

• Diverse birdlife – often see skuas, upland geese, and petrels

• Incredible photography opportunities

• No crowds – preserved and peaceful

• Respectful wildlife viewing – our tours prioritize animal welfare

Explore with Us

To truly experience Yorke Bay, guided access is essential — and that’s where we come in.

Falkland Premium Penguin Tours offers small-group excursions to Yorke Bay Penguin Colony, led by local experts who know the land, history, and wildlife inside out.

What’s Included in the Guided Tour:

• Round-trip transportation from Stanley

• Guided walk along penguin paths

• Wildlife insights from knowledgeable guides

• Photo stops at scenic locations

• Light refreshments

• Stories of Falkland culture & conservation

Let the best Tour service take you beyond the brochure — and into the heart of the Falklands.

Best Time to Visit Yorke Bay Penguin Colony

Month	Activity Highlights
Oct–Nov	Nest building, courtship, start of breeding season
Dec–Jan	Chicks hatching, high activity
Feb	Fledgling stage, penguins swimming & feeding
Mar–Sep	Penguins still present, quieter experience

📊 Quick Facts Table: Yorke Bay Penguin Colony

Feature	Details
🐧 Penguin Species	Gentoo (main), occasional Magellanic
📍 Location	East Falkland, near Stanley
🏖️ Beach Type	White-sand, sheltered
🚶 Access Mode	Guided tour only
📸 Best for	Photography, wildlife watching
🗺️ Nearby Attractions	Gypsy Cove, Lady Elizabeth Shipwreck

Want to explore more? Read about the haunting remains of the Lady Elizabeth Ship in Falkland.

Photography Tips & Wildlife Etiquette

Bring a Zoom Lens (200mm+)

To photograph penguins respectfully, bring a zoom lens of at least 200mm. It allows you to capture sharp, intimate shots from a safe distance. This helps protect wildlife and enhances your photography without intrusion.

Stay Low and Quiet

Penguins are naturally curious but easily frightened by sudden movements or noise. Crouch low, move slowly, and speak in hushed tones when nearby. This calm approach keeps the colony relaxed and undisturbed.

Don’t Block the Penguin Path

Penguins often travel in set paths between their nests and the sea. Standing in their way can confuse or alarm them. Always observe from the side and allow them a clear route.

Never Touch or Feed Wildlife

It’s vital to avoid physical contact or offering food to penguins. Human interference can harm their health and alter natural behaviors. Let wildlife remain wild for their safety and yours.

Follow Your Guide’s Advice

Our expert guides are trained in ethical wildlife tourism and safety. They’ll direct you on where to walk, when to stop, and how to interact respectfully. Trust their knowledge for a memorable and responsible visit.

A Brief History of Yorke Bay Penguin Colony

Yorke Bay, located just northeast of Stanley, has a fascinating past that blends natural beauty with political history. Once a popular recreational beach for locals, it became a restricted area during the 1982 Falklands War due to landmines buried along the shoreline. 

Ironically, this human conflict helped the Gentoo penguin population thrive, as the lack of human interference created a safe haven for nesting. Penguins were too light to trigger the mines, allowing them to roam freely while people stayed away. 

In recent years, extensive demining efforts have made Yorke Bay safe for visitors again, restoring access to this stunning stretch of white sand and its bustling penguin colony. It now serves as a wildlife sanctuary as well as a representation of resiliency and healing.

In the Falklands, it's among the most accessible and enjoyable places to see penguins in their native environment.