Volunteer Point Penguin Colony
Volunteer Point hosts the largest King Penguin colony outside Antarctica, where over 1,000 tuxedo-clad giants stand shoulder to shoulder on a white sand beach. Getting here is half the adventure — a thrilling 4WD ride across open Camp that feels like the edge of the world.
The Colony Up Close
King Penguins are staggeringly unbothered by humans, allowing you to sit within arm's reach as chicks in chocolate-brown down jostle for attention. Gentoo and Magellanic penguins also nest nearby, so a single visit delivers three species in one sweep.
The beach itself is a revelation — a pale crescent of sand backed by tussock grass, framed by the cold blue South Atlantic. Arrive before 10 a.m. to catch the morning light turning the Kings' orange chest patches into molten gold.
Getting There & Practicalities
Volunteer Point lies roughly 40 miles north-east of Stanley and is only reachable by high-clearance 4WD across private farmland. Most visitors book a guided day tour from Stanley, which includes the land-access permit fee paid to the Johnson family who own the land.
The track crosses boggy 'diddle-dee' heathland and several stream crossings — even experienced off-road drivers should not attempt it solo without local knowledge. Tours typically run from October through March when the colony is at its most active.
More of Falkland Islands
Discover where to stay, what to do and the best deals for your trip.
Explore Falkland Islands →
