Other Western Isles
Western Islands, Falkland Islands
In addition to the two main islands of East and West Falkland, the archipelago contains over 700 smaller isles. A staggering variety of wildlife is attracted to these isles, living in some of the world’s most untouched and most beautiful scenery.
Several of the islands have been inhabited by people for many years, generally by individuals who truly appreciate the land and the importance of maintaining its unique features, and several islands are now privately owned protected areas. As many of these islands are isolated and little visited, most have avoided the devastation caused elsewhere by introduced species like sheep and rats. This means that the tussock grass thrives, allowing vital parts of the habitat needed by many birds to remain – this makes these islands essential viewing for those with a love of Nature and bird life.
Background
One of the first islands to be settled was Sanders Island in 1765 and in 1853 a missionary set up on Keppel Island which, history tells, became an outpost for teaching and training indigenous Indians of Tierra del Fuego, in southern Patagonia. West Point Island is home to the friendly Napier family, visitors to Carcass Island are given a warm greeting by resident Rob McGill and the works produced by the artists Tim and Kim Chater on New Island are popular souvenirs for visitors.
Other islands, such as Pebble Island and Saunders Island are also interesting places to visit and many of the larger islands have places to stay where you’ll find comfort and a local style of hospitality that is second to none. Here you can come to feel so much at home that leaving could be a problem! The sandy beaches, the grassy slopes and the cliffs are home to an almost overwhelming variety of wildlife, so whether you want to walk, sit or have a local 4WD trip, you will be overwhelmed!
Sea Lion Island and Bleaker Island are located closer to East Falkland, so are covered in that section of the destination guide. For more information on these islands, click here.