Useful information for travellers to the Falkland Islands.

Immigration requirements: Visitors from Britain, North America, Mercosur, Chile, and most Commonwealth countries and the European Community do not need visas. Visitors from other countries should check their particular situation with the nearest British Consulate or contact the Travel Co-ordinator at the Falkland Island Government Office in London (tel : 0207 222 2542).

All tourists are required to demonstrate on arrival that they have return tickets or secure accommodation and sufficient funds to cover their expenses during their intended stay (Visa or Mastercard credit cards will be accepted as proof of funds).

Medical: No special requirements or precautions are recommended for visitors. There are qualified GPs, dentists and medical staff in the Islands with hospital facilities to cope with the needs of the community and any contingencies that may arise. All visitors should ensure they have adequate medical insurance. Inoculation against Yellow fever is recommended by the MOD against the possibility that a flight is diverted to a risk area. Visitors travelling via South America may require a number of inoculations and should check with their doctor.

Money: The Falklands pound equals one pound sterling and notes and coins are similar, except in design, to those of UK. British money circulates freely in the Islands. There are no currency restrictions and exchange facilities are available at Standard Chartered Bank, Stanley. Travellers cheques are accepted at most commercial outlets, as are US dollars. Euros can be changed at Standard Chartered Bank. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. Amex, Eurocard and Diners Cards are accepted only at selected outlets. There are no automatic cash machines however the bank hope to be able to provide cash against credit cards in the near future. UK cheques can be cashed to the limit of a valid guarantee card. Falklands currency cannot be exchanged for Sterling or other currencies outside the Islands.

Clothing: Casual clothing is the order in the Falklands. Travellers should take clothes similar to those worn for outdoor activities in Maine during spring. Particularly important are a windproof jacket, or anorak, with hood or hat and a stout pair of walking boots or shoes as they may have to cross some rough ground to see the best wildlife. Suntan lotion and lipsalve are essential in the remarkably clear, unpolluted air. Shoes or slippers for indoor use are also useful.

Food: Falklands food is generally of British character, but with occasional borrowings from South America. In the 'camp' or rural areas, expect three large meals a day, often punctuated by "smoko": tea or coffee served with home made cakes and biscuits. In Stanley and camp restaurants look for the use of fine local ingredients: organically grown lamb, mutton and beef, locally raised pork, locally caught fish and sea food and home grown vegetables.

Drugs warning: We in the Falkland Islands are proud of our low incidence of cases of drugs abuse and the Government is firmly committed to maintaining the drugs-free environment currently enjoyed here. Whilst convictions for drugs-related offences are few and far between we intend to improve on the current situation and anyone convicted of a drugs related offence will be dealt with severely by the authorities. Anyone entering the Islands as a visitor or as a temporary resident/worker will have their immigration permit revoked if convicted of a drugs-related offence in the Islands.

For more information, please read the Falklands Facts leaflet (PDF File)