Private Wild Shores Tour: Penguins, Elephant Seals & Stanley

Experience Falkland Islands with the Private Wild Shores Tour

This private tour offers a carefully curated day exploring some of the most iconic sights and wildlife of the Falkland Islands. For $570.22 per person, you’ll spend about 5 to 6 hours in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, with a dedicated driver-guide who is passionate about sharing their island home. The itinerary takes you from the charming capital of Stanley to the rugged coastlines of Whale Point/Kelp Point, where elephant seals and gentoo penguins thrive in their natural habitat.

What we love about this experience is the exclusivity—it’s a private ride for your group, avoiding crowded tour buses, and giving you the flexibility to ask questions and stop for photos whenever you like. Plus, the chance to see wildlife up close in their environment is genuinely special. The tour’s focus on eco-conscious practices and family-friendly appeal makes it a responsible choice for travelers seeking authentic, meaningful experiences.

One thing to consider is the long drive time—about 3.5 hours of the day are spent in transit, so this is best suited for those who enjoy scenic drives and don’t mind a bit of time on the road. If you’re eager for a tailored wildlife encounter and want to avoid large tour groups, this is an excellent pick, especially for nature lovers and curious explorers.

Key Points

• Exclusive private experience with no outsiders in your vehicle.
• Wildlife encounters with elephant seals and penguins in their natural habitat.
• Scenic drives across stunning Falkland landscapes, including Stanley.
• Informative guides who are passionate about the island’s ecology and history.
• Family-friendly and eco-conscious, with sustainable practices.
• Long travel times make it ideal for those comfortable with a full day on the road.

A Deep Dive into the Falkland Islands Wildlife and Scenery

Traveling with this tour means you’ll cover significant ground in a comfortable, climate-controlled vehicle, giving you an excellent overview of the Falkland Islands’ diverse landscapes. The journey begins with a roughly 1 hour 45-minute drive from Stanley to Whale Point or Kelp Point, with an off-road experience that allows you to soak in the island’s rugged beauty. The landscape here is nothing short of spectacular, with mountain backdrops, rolling hills, and sweeping coastlines.

Exploring Stanley: The Capital’s Charm

Before heading out to nature, the tour includes a 30-minute visit to Stanley, where you can walk around and see key landmarks such as Christ Church Cathedral, the Whalebone Arch, and the Lady Elizabeth shipwreck. Our guides often share insights about the town’s history and significance, enhancing your understanding of this remote community.

One reviewer mentions, “We had a great tour with Shawn who answered many questions about the animals and administration of the islands,” highlighting the value of knowledgeable guides. You’ll get recommendations for local spots to eat, shop, or just enjoy the scenery, making Stanley a perfect starting or ending point for your day.

The Iconic Lady Elizabeth Shipwreck

This shipwreck is an impressive sight—built in 1879, it has become a hauntingly beautiful symbol of Falklands maritime history. Located in Stanley Harbour, it’s an accessible stop where you can get close enough—especially at low tide—to touch this relic of a bygone era. Visitors frequently photograph her against the backdrop of mountains and harbor, creating memorable images.

The Wildlife at Whale Point and Kelp Point

The main event is the up-close wildlife encounter at Whale Point/Kelp Point. Here, you’ll see elephant seals and gentoo penguins in their natural environment. The tour description emphasizes observing fascinating behaviors, which is exactly what wildlife lovers crave. One guest notes, “We loved the way Sian, our guide, was very experienced and knowledgeable—and how close we could get to the seals and penguins.”

The activity lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, giving ample time to take photos, ask questions, and simply appreciate the impressive animals. The scenery here is equally striking: waves crashing on rocky shores, penguins waddling, and seals lounging or splashing—truly a photographer’s paradise.

Return Journey and Final Views

After the wildlife stop, the group heads back to Stanley, retracing the scenic route for another 1 hour 45-minute drive. The second part of the journey lets you reflect on the day, chat with your guide, and enjoy more of the Falklands’ rugged beauty.

The Practical Side: What to Expect

This tour’s private nature allows for a personalized experience—no sharing with strangers, just your group and guide. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, especially during the longer drives. Included are bottled water, hot beverages, and local-style lunch—homemade with ingredients like eggs, rhubarb chutney, and fresh vegetables—served in eco-friendly packaging. The tour also offers snacks, soda, and local beer (subject to availability), catering to different tastes.

Meeting point is conveniently located at the Falkland Islands Tourist Board Jetty Visitor Centre in Stanley, with flexible opening hours from 9 am to 3:30 pm daily. Booking in advance is recommended—most travelers book about four months ahead, reflecting the tour’s popularity among those wanting a full wildlife and cultural experience.

The Value for Money

At just over $570 per person, the price might seem steep, but it includes personalized service, wildlife encounters, local lunch, and transportation—all important factors for a quality, stress-free day. For wildlife enthusiasts and those wanting a deeper connection to Falklands’ landscapes and creatures, this tour offers exceptional value.

The Experience’s Strengths and Considerations

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery, with reviews highlighting friendly, informed guides who enhance the experience. The exclusivity means fewer crowds, allowing for more intimate wildlife viewing.

However, the long hours of driving—about 3.5 hours in total—may not suit everyone, especially those with limited mobility or who prefer shorter outings. The off-road driving also requires comfort with bumpy, uneven terrain, although the guides are skilled at handling this.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure is ideal for wildlife lovers, photographers, and adventurous travelers who enjoy scenic drives and are eager to see penguins and seals in their natural habitat. It’s perfect if you seek a private, tailored experience away from crowded group tours. The focus on eco-conscious practices and family friendliness makes it suitable for travelers of all ages who want a responsible way to explore Falklands’ natural treasures.

This tour would also appeal to those who appreciate authentic local insights and are happy to spend a good part of the day on the road, soaking in the landscapes. If your priority is a detailed, intimate wildlife experience with personalized service, this is a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly and suitable for most travelers who can comfortably get in and out of a 4×4 vehicle.

How long is the drive from Stanley to Whale Point?
Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes each way, with a portion of that time spent off-road on rugged terrain.

What wildlife will we see?
Elephant seals and gentoo penguins are the main wildlife species, seen in their natural habitat.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers private transportation, bottled water, hot beverages, a homemade lunch, snacks, soda, and local beer (if available).

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 127 days ahead, reflecting high demand.

Is there any walking involved?
You can walk out on the sand to touch the Lady Elizabeth shipwreck at very low tide, but the main wildlife viewing involves minimal walking.

What is the weather like, and how does it affect the tour?
The tour is partly weather-dependent; poor weather may cause cancellations or rescheduling, with full refunds or alternate dates offered.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, guides are flexible and can answer questions or adjust stops based on your interests.

Are there group discounts?
Yes, with private booking, you can often arrange for group discounts, especially for families or groups traveling together.

What is the overall value of this experience?
Considering the personalized service, wildlife encounters, and scenic landscapes, many find the price justified and worth the investment for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Closing Thoughts

The Private Wild Shores Tour in the Falkland Islands offers a rare chance to see seals and penguins up close, explore Stanley’s historic sights, and enjoy spectacular scenery—all in a tailored, eco-conscious setting. It’s a solid choice for those who value personalized attention and want a deep dive into Falklands’ natural beauty without the crowds.

While the drive times are long, the experience compensates with intimate wildlife viewing and knowledgeable guides who truly love sharing their home. If you’re after an authentic, meaningful encounter with Falklands’ wildlife and landscapes, this tour deserves serious consideration.

Ideal for travelers who prioritize quality over quantity, enjoy scenic drives, and want to connect with nature in a responsible, memorable way. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or a curious explorer, this tour provides a comprehensive look at the stunning and often overlooked natural world of the Falklands.