Falkland Islands FAQs

When To Go

The Falkland Islands have a chilly climate characterised by strong winds, particularly in the spring (Sep-Oct). Rain falls on approximately 180 days per year, but totals are small. The islands are at their warmest in Jan, the mid-point of the southern summer, but temperatures (averaging 10°C) don’t vary much throughout the year. A little-known fact is that the islands are bathed in the same number of sunshine hours as southern England. Visitors benefit from long hours of daylight Oct-Mar, when migratory birds and mammals arrive. November is the breeding time for penguins.

For more detailed information visit our When To Go section.

Language

English.

Currency

The Falkland Islands pound. This is equal to one pound sterling, with notes and coins being similar to those in the UK, varying only in their design. There are generally no currency restrictions. British currency is accepted or exchange UK sterling for Falkland Islands currency at the bank in Port Stanley. There is no charge for exchanging sterling for Falkland Islands currency or vice versa. There are no ATMs on the island nor is it possible to exchange South American currencies, but credit cards are widely accepted and you can get a cash advance on cards at the bank. A departure tax of £25 is payable in cash by all passengers on flights departing Port Stanley to South America.

Time Difference

GMT -3 hours; this is actually daylight saving time. The accurate time is GMT -4 hours, observed all year round since 2011.

Combines With

Chile, accessing the country by air at Punta Arenas, gateway to Patagonia and Torres del Paine National Park; Antarctica - many cruises drop anchor at the Falklands.

Key Events

Bank holidays. UK bank holidays are observed, with the exception of Easter Monday and the bank holidays in May and Aug. 

Liberation Day, 14 Jun. Church services and military parades commemorating the 1982 war.

Falklands Day, 14 Aug. Commemorates the first recorded sighting of the islands by English sea captain John Davis on the ship ‘Desire’.