Why You Should Explore South Georgia and the Falkland Islands

Perhaps you’ve already visited the Antarctic Peninsula and marveled at its natural wonders, from cruising through the Lemaire Channel and passing wandering icebergs to a Zodiac ride to Paradise Bay to take in views of glaciers and snowcapped mountains. Then there’s the area’s spectacular wildlife. You may have spotted humpback whales, seals, and chinstrap penguins, to name a few.

But the world’s intrepid travelers know there are two more adventurous destinations in the Southern Ocean not to be overlooked: South Georgia and the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas. These remote archipelagos offer a unique blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and incredible wildlife encounters that rival, and in some ways surpass, those on the Antarctic continent itself.

Keep reading to learn why you should add to your experience in the Antarctic Peninsula and visit these thrilling destinations.

South Georgia: A Wildlife Paradise

Often called the “Galapagos of the Poles,” South Georgia is a narrow island that rises dramatically from the sea, its snow-capped peaks and glaciers creating a breathtaking backdrop for some of the most impressive wildlife gatherings on Earth. The island’s star attraction is undoubtedly its king penguin colonies. At places like Salisbury Plain and St. Andrew’s Bay, you’ll find yourself amid a sea of hundreds — or even thousands — of these regal birds. The sight and sound of so many penguins packed together is awe-inspiring, but penguins are just the beginning. South Georgia is also home to vast colonies of macaroni and gentoo penguins, as well as millions of seabirds like albatrosses and petrels. The beaches of South Georgia teem with Antarctic fur seals and enormous elephant seals, their bellowing calls echoing off the mountains. Offshore, you might spot whales feeding in the nutrient-rich waters. Beyond its natural wonders, South Georgia holds a special place in polar history, too. It was a crucial stop for many early Antarctic expeditions, including Ernest Shackleton’s ill-fated Endurance voyage. Visitors can pay their respects at Shackleton’s grave in the abandoned whaling station of Grytviken, a haunting reminder of the island’s whaling past.

The Falkland Islands: A Charming Outpost

Located closer to South America, the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) offer a different but equally captivating experience. This British Overseas Territory feels like a slice of the rural United Kingdom transported to the edge of Antarctica. The capital, Stanley, charms visitors with its colorful houses, red telephone boxes, and warm hospitality, but it’s the outlying islands that showcase the Falklands’ natural beauty and wildlife. On islands like Carcass and Sea Lion, you’ll find yourself walking among nesting albatrosses, their massive wingspans a sight to behold. Gentoo, rockhopper, and Magellanic penguins waddle along the beaches and cliffsides. The destination is also one of the best areas to see the rare and comical rockhopper penguin, with its distinctive spiky crest. Marine mammals abound in the waters around the Falklands, from pods of orcas and Peale’s dolphins playing in the waves to sea lions and elephant seals lounging on the beaches. For bird enthusiasts, the Falklands are a paradise: Over 200 species inhabit the area, including endemics like the Falkland steamer duck and Cobb’s wren.

Curious how you can travel to both destinations? 

Combining South Georgia and the Falklands with an Antarctic Peninsula expedition creates an unparalleled Southern Ocean adventure. You’ll witness three distinct environments, each with its own character and wildlife specialties. From the windswept tussock grasslands of the Falklands to the vast king penguin colonies of South Georgia and the icy landscapes of Antarctica, this extended journey offers a comprehensive look at the wonders of the sub-Antarctic and Antarctic regions.

Learn how to visit these destinations aboard two unique adventures: Antarctica & South Georgia Air-Cruise and Falklands (Malvinas) & South Georgia Sea Voyage.