Hiking in Falkland Islands
Including Bleaker Island Coastal Loop, Mount Osborn, and New Island Nature Reserve. On the map.
The vibe
Walking here feels like traversing a vast, windswept frontier where the horizon never ends and you are often the only person in sight. The late spring and summer months offer the most manageable weather for trekking across the rugged, tussock-covered terrain. It is a deeply solitary and DIY experience, with no formal trail networks or crowds to navigate.
Bleaker Island Coastal Loop
Bleaker Island
Antarctic96 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
A relatively flat but visually striking coastal walk that circumnavigates the island's diverse shoreline. The trail passes by sandy bays, rocky outcrops, and dense colonies of cormorants and penguins.
Access. Reached by a short flight from Stanley; the island is small enough to be explored entirely on foot by visitors staying at the local settlement.
Notes. No formal trail markers; hikers should be comfortable with basic navigation across open moorland.
Mount Osborn, East Falkland
Tierra del Fuego
Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit , Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
The highest point in the Falkland Islands offers a challenging hike through rugged, windswept terrain covered in distinctive stone runs. Reaching the summit provides panoramic views of the dramatic, desolate landscape of East Falkland.
Access. Located near Stanley, the trailhead is accessible via a short drive followed by a cross-country trek across private farmland; permission from landowners is typically required.
Notes. Weather is highly unpredictable and can change rapidly; sturdy waterproof boots and navigation skills are essential.
New Island Nature Reserve
New Island
BluesyPete / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
This remote island offers some of the most spectacular walking trails in the archipelago, winding through dramatic sea cliffs and lush tussac grass. The island is a haven for diverse birdlife and offers a sense of total isolation.
Access. Access is via small aircraft or expedition cruise ship from Stanley; visitors usually stay at the local lodge to explore the trails over several days.
Notes. Strict biosecurity measures are in place to protect the island's fragile ecosystem.
Volunteer Point Coastal Trail
Tierra del Fuego
bda_biodiversity / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)
This scenic coastal route traverses the dramatic cliffs and white sand beaches of the northeast coast. Hikers are rewarded with the sight of large colonies of King, Gentoo, and Magellanic penguins in their natural habitat.
Access. Requires a 4x4 vehicle to reach the remote trailhead from Stanley, often arranged through local tour operators who provide drop-off and pick-up services.
Notes. Stay on marked paths to avoid disturbing wildlife and respect the private land boundaries.