Bluff Cove Lagoon: Penguins & Tea
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Port
Stanley/Falkland Is/Islas Malvinas
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Activity Level
Easy Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$250
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 3 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to discover breeding king and Gentoo penguins and the abundant bird species of the Falkland Islands on this award-winning scenic, off-road excursion to the privately-owned Bluff Cove Lagoon wildlife haven.
After tendering ashore, you will be met by the Bluff Cove team and set out with your driver/guide by minibus. A 30-minute journey takes you through Stanley and across the rolling hills to Bluff Cove Farm.
Upon arrival, a knowledgeable and friendly ranger will accompany you on a leisurely stroll through the penguin colony, which features a scenic backdrop of a large lagoon and a white, sandy beach that is occasionally patrolled by sea lions from the nearby island. This beautiful, pristine reserve is home to more than 1,000 breeding pairs of Gentoo penguins which protect the growing colony of King penguins and their chicks. Magellanic penguins, which burrow on the nearby island, can often be found on the beach. Bird species that frequent or nest in the area include skuas, upland geese, ruddy-headed geese, Magellanic oyster-catchers, South American terns, dolphin gulls, flightless Falkland steamer ducks, snowy sheathbills and southern giant petrels, among others.
At the legendary Sea Cabbage Café on the beach, relax over complimentary tea, coffee and hot chocolate accompanied by delicious home-baked treats such as scones with diddle-dee jam and fresh cream. Gluten-free options are available. Bask in the warmth and aroma of the peat stove while the enjoying splendid vistas of waves crashing on the sandy beach and penguins porpoising in.
The Bluff Cove Museum and Shop, also by the beach, depicts life in the Falklands and tells the story of Bluff Cove. You can find out about the farm, the nearby 1863 ‘sugar wreck’, the 1982 war with Argentina and the fabulous lagoon wildlife.
You will have approximately two hours of free time to take photographs, stroll along the beach, sample the treats at the Sea Cabbage Cafe and look around the museum. A small gift shop sells unique Bluff Cove souvenirs, including Bluff Cove tweed items made with the farm wool, and postcards that can be stamped and mailed from here. Look for samples of knitted, crocheted and felted local wool work displayed on the walls of the café and museum.
After an unforgettable visit, your minibus will take you back to the minibus for the return journey to Stanley.
Please note:
Credit cards and US dollars are accepted at the museum gift/souvenir shop. Modern restrooms are available at the café and museum. The 300-yard walk to the beach is mostly flat and there are courtesy vehicles ready to drive guests with mobility limitations. Assistance is available for guests using a wheelchair. Wear comfortable walking shoes and warm layered clothing with a windbreaker. Bring sunscreen.