West Falkland

West Falkland is the second largest of the Falkland Islands in the South Atlantic.

The Falkland Islands are the ultimate birding experience with large, easily accessible colonies of some of the world's rarest and most enchanting birds. Best known for penguins, including king, rockhopper, gentoo and Magellanic penguins. Over 70% of the world's Black-browed albatross breed around the islands. Add to these a large number of other interesting birds including the cara-cara, the endemic Cobb's wren and Falklands Flightless steamer duck - there are plenty of species for the amateur birder and the enthusiast.

Fishing, hiking, golf and watersports are also on offer, depending on which island is visited.

Souvenirs include leather goods, jewellery, woollen garments knitted from soft Falkland's wool, wooden souvenirs crafted from salvaged shipwrecks and driftwood and local artwork.

The local seafood is a firm favourite - scallops, local sea trout and Atlantic Rock Cod (locally called mullet) are served in most restaurants. Sample local squid caught in deep waters or the Patagonian toothfish (Mero).

The Falklands are renowned for the quality of the lamb, mutton and beef all of which is ranched on the wide plains of the Islands. Upland Goose paté is also a local speciality.

Most cruise ships dock at Stanley on East Falkland, however some of the smaller surrounding islands may also be visited by ships who anchor and tender passengers ashore. These islands include Bleaker Island, Carcass Island, New Island, Saunders Island and West Point Island.