South America > 🇫🇰 The Falkland Islands
The city by city Car or no Car advice for The Falkland Islands can be broken down into three similar questions - do you need a car in The Falkland Islands ; is it worth it (based on costs), and ultimately - should you rent one? (a balance of the two).🚆 🚌⛴️ Do we need to rent a car in The Falkland Islands ?
These scores are based on the quality of public transport and other travel options. If these are good enough to see the main points of interest, then you don’t need to rent a car.
💰💶💳 Is it worth hiring a car in The Falkland Islands ?
These scores reflect the practical factors that affect whether renting a car is convenient, good value, and stress-free.
🏙️ Main Cities in The Falkland Islands
| CITY | IATA | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Stanley | PSY |
Should You Rent a Car in the Falkland Islands? 🚗🐧
The Falkland Islands, a remote British Overseas Territory in the South Atlantic, are famous for their raw natural landscapes, abundant wildlife, penguin colonies, and wide-open spaces. With limited public transport and vast areas of farmland and wilderness, many visitors wonder: should you rent a car in the Falkland Islands? The answer depends on whether you plan to stay in the capital or explore the outer islands and nature reserves.
🚶 When You Don’t Need a Car
If you stay only in Stanley, the islands’ small capital, you won’t necessarily need a vehicle. Most accommodations, shops, pubs, and the waterfront are within walking distance.
| Scenario | Why You Don’t Need a Car | Best Transport Option |
|---|---|---|
| Staying in Stanley | Everything is close by | Walking or taxi |
| Cruise shore visit | Excursions include transport | Tour vehicle |
| Guided wildlife tours | Transport is included | Pre-booked 4×4 |
➡ Stanley is compact and easy to explore on foot.
🚗 When Renting a Car Is the Best Option
To experience the Falklands’ wildlife, rural landscapes, and remote coastlines, a 4×4 vehicle is essential. Most attractions outside Stanley are located on unpaved roads across rough terrain.
| Benefit | What You Can Access |
|---|---|
| Penguin colonies | Volunteer Point, Cape Pembroke |
| Scenic drives | Coastal roads and farmland routes |
| Rural settlements | Local farms and remote communities |
| Independence | Explore at your own pace |
A standard car is not suitable. Only 4×4 vehicles are recommended, and many visitors opt to rent through local operators who know the terrain.
🚦 Driving Conditions in the Falklands
-
You drive on the left-hand side
-
Most roads outside Stanley are gravel or rough tracks
-
No traffic lights and minimal traffic
-
Wildlife may cross roads (sheep and penguins!)
-
Navigation is straightforward but remote—carry supplies and fuel
Car Rental Availability
Car rental is available in Stanley, with local companies offering manual 4×4 vehicles. There are no major international brands such as Hertz or Avis.
🚕 Alternatives to Renting a Car
| Transport Type | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-booked 4×4 tours | Wildlife and farm visits | Most popular option |
| Taxi | Short trips near Stanley | Limited availability |
| FIGAS flights | Travel between islands | No road transport possible on outer islands |
🧭 Conclusion
A car—specifically a 4×4—is the most effective way to see the Falkland Islands beyond Stanley, giving you access to wildlife sites, remote coastlines, and rural landscapes. However, if you plan to stay within Stanley or rely on organised tours, you can manage comfortably without renting a vehicle. The best choice depends on whether you want full independence to explore the island’s rugged terrain or prefer guided experiences with transport included.