Port Stanley, the Falklands

Travelling to the Falkland Islands:

Air Routes from the UK via RAF Brize Norton or South America

Introduction:

The Falkland Islands, a remote archipelago in the South Atlantic Ocean, is a unique travel destination known for its stunning landscapes and rich wildlife. While the islands are located far from the United Kingdom, there are several ways to reach this British Overseas Territory. In this article, we will explore two alternative routes to get to the Falkland Islands, bypassing the popular cruise ship option. We will delve into the possibilities of travelling via the Royal Air Force (RAF) at Brize Norton in the UK or by air through South America.

1. RAF Brize Norton Route:

For those who prefer flying directly from the UK to the Falkland Islands, the RAF at Brize Norton offers occasional flights. However, it is essential to note that these flights are primarily military in nature and may not always be available for civilian travel. To explore this option, interested individuals should closely monitor announcements made by the Falkland Islands Government, the UK Ministry of Defence, or the Falkland Islands Tourist Board for any updates on civilian flights from Brize Norton.

2. Travelling via South America:

An alternative route to reach the Falkland Islands is through South America. This option usually involves flying from the UK to a major South American city, followed by a connecting flight to the Falklands. The two primary departure points in South America are Santiago, Chile, and São Paulo, Brazil. From these cities, commercial flights operate to Mount Pleasant Airport, located on East Falkland Island.

1. a) Santiago, Chile: 

Multiple airlines offer regular flights from the UK to Santiago, the capital of Chile. Once in Santiago, travelers can book connecting flights operated by LATAM or the Falkland Islands’ national airline, LATAM Airlines, which provide service to Mount Pleasant Airport. The duration of the flight from Santiago to Mount Pleasant is approximately five hours.

1. b) São Paulo, Brazil: 

Travellers from the UK can also fly to São Paulo, Brazil, which serves as another gateway to the Falkland Islands. From São Paulo, LATAM operates flights to Mount Pleasant Airport with a layover in Punta Arenas, Chile. The total travel time varies depending on the duration of the layover, but it typically ranges between 10 to 15 hours.

Important Considerations:

1. Visa Requirements: Ensure that you have the necessary visas for all countries you will be passing through during your journey. Check the specific visa requirements for Chile, Brazil, and the Falkland Islands in advance.
2. Flight Availability: As the Falkland Islands are a remote destination, flight schedules may be limited. It is advisable to book flights well in advance and be flexible with travel dates to secure the most suitable options.
3. Travel Updates: Keep yourself updated with the latest travel advisories, entry requirements, and flight availability by regularly checking the websites of relevant airlines, embassies, and the Falkland Islands Tourist Board.

Conclusion:

Travellers can explore alternatives such as civilian flights from RAF Brize Norton (subject to availability) or opt for the South America route, which involves flying from the UK to either Santiago, Chile, or São Paulo, Brazil, and then connecting to Mount Pleasant Airport. Whichever route you choose, the Falkland Islands’ unique landscapes and abundant wildlife promise an unforgettable adventure.

Exploring the Beauty of the Falkland Islands: A Self-Drive Adventure from Stanley

Stanley, the picturesque capital of the Falkland Islands, serves as an excellent starting point for an unforgettable exploration of this remote archipelago. Renting a car in Stanley allows you the freedom to discover the diverse attractions the Falklands have to offer. From historical war sites to intriguing nautical wrecks, captivating wildlife encounters, stunning rock rivers, and the island’s rich sheep farming heritage, there’s something for everyone. In this article, we will guide you through a few days in Stanley, highlighting key attractions and providing useful links and book recommendations to enhance your experience.

Exploring Stanley:

Begin your journey by immersing yourself in the charming streets of Stanley. Admire the vibrant architecture, visit the Falkland Islands Museum to learn about the history and culture of the islands, and enjoy local cuisine at one of the inviting pubs or restaurants.

Hiring a Car:

To fully explore the Falkland Islands, renting a car in Stanley is highly recommended. Several car rental agencies operate in the capital, offering vehicles suitable for the islands’ diverse terrain. Make sure to have a valid driver’s licence and familiarise yourself with local driving regulations.

Falkland War Sites:

1. Goose Green: Drive southeast of Stanley to Goose Green, the site of a significant battle during the Falklands War. Visit the memorial, pay your respects, and gain insight into the intense conflicts that took place on the islands.
2. San Carlos: Head west of Stanley to San Carlos, where British forces conducted amphibious landings during the war. Explore the historical sites and monuments that honor those who fought for the Falkland Islands’ liberation.

Nautical Wrecks:

1. Dos Amigos: Near Stanley Harbor, you can find the partially submerged wreck of the Dos Amigos, a fishing vessel that ran aground in 1989. Discover this haunting sight and reflect on the region’s maritime history.
2. Lady Elizabeth: Journey north of Stanley to witness the remains of the Lady Elizabeth, a majestic sailing ship that wrecked in 1913. Experience the allure of this skeletal structure, a testament to the challenges faced by seafarers in the Falkland Islands’ treacherous waters.

Wildlife Encounters:

The Falkland Islands are renowned for their abundant wildlife. Keep an eye out for remarkable species such as penguins, seals, albatrosses, and a variety of birdlife. Enjoy the unique opportunity to observe these animals in their natural habitats, both along the coast and inland.

Rock Rivers and Sheep Farming:

Drive through the Falklands’ breathtaking landscapes, where you’ll encounter stunning rock rivers—unique formations created by the erosive forces of nature. Take in the natural beauty and learn about the islands’ sheep farming heritage, a crucial industry that has shaped the Falklands’ culture and economy.

Useful Links:

– Falkland Islands Tourist Board: Official website providing comprehensive information on attractions, accommodations, and activities: [www.falklandislands.com](www.falklandislands.com)

Book Recommendations:

1. “The Falkland Islands: The Land and Wildlife” by Robin and Anne Lee: A beautifully illustrated guidebook highlighting the Falkland Islands’ natural wonders, wildlife, and landscapes.
2. “The Falklands War” by Martin Middlebrook: A definitive account of the 1982 conflict, providing historical context and personal testimonies.
3. “Wildlife of the Falkland Islands” by Ian Strange: A comprehensive guidebook featuring the diverse flora and fauna of the Falkland Islands, including tips on wildlife spotting and photography
4. “Falklands War 1982” by Duncan Anderson: A comprehensive account of the Falklands War, including a detailed exploration of key battle sites and events.
5. “Wrecks and Reefs: A Guide to the Historic Wrecks and Marine Life of the Falkland Islands” by Richard and Sharna Aston: A captivating book that delves into the nautical wrecks and marine biodiversity of the Falkland Islands.
6. “The Battle for the Falklands” by Max Hastings and Simon Jenkins: A comprehensive account of the Falklands War, shedding light on the conflict’s history, strategies, and impact.

Summary

Spending a few days based in Stanley and embarking on a self-drive adventure in the Falkland Islands opens up a world of discovery. From exploring war sites and nautical wrecks to encountering unique wildlife, marvelling at rock rivers, and immersing yourself in

Sustainable Travel Carbon Offset Schemes

By selecting sustainable travel options and actively participating in carbon offset initiatives, you can make a positive impact while journeying to or from your voyage.

Here are some suggestions for carbon offset websites.

UK: One popular carbon offset website in the UK is “Clear” who offer a range of carbon offset projects and solutions for individuals, businesses, and organisations. They provide detailed information about their projects and allow users to calculate and offset their carbon footprint online.

North America: In North America, “Terrapass” is a well-known carbon offset website. Terrapass offers carbon offset projects across the United States and Canada. They provide options for individuals, businesses, and events to calculate and offset their carbon emissions. Terrapass also offers additional resources and information on sustainable living.

Europe: A popular carbon offset website in Europe is “MyClimate.” MyClimate provides carbon offset projects and solutions for individuals, businesses, and travel. They offer a carbon footprint calculator and allow users to support various sustainable projects worldwide. MyClimate focuses on promoting climate protection and sustainability.

Australia: “Greenfleet” is a prominent carbon offset website in Australia. Greenfleet focuses on planting native forests to offset carbon emissions. They offer individuals and businesses the opportunity to calculate and offset their carbon footprint by contributing to tree planting projects across Australia. Greenfleet provides detailed information about their projects and the positive environmental impacts they create.

Please note that these carbon offset websites may vary over time, so it is recommended to research and explore multiple options to find the most suitable one for your needs. 

If any of these links do not work it would be kind of you to inform us, many thanks.

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