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Nature reserve · Stanley, Malvina Oriental (East Falkland)
Gypsy Cove
Small cove of white sand about 6 km from Stanley, inside the Cabo Pembroke nature reserve, where Magellanic penguins make burrows between October and March. Marked trails lead to viewpoints overlooking the beach.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Gypsy Cove
Gypsy Cove is a small bay of white sand and blue-green water on the west side of Yorke Bay, about 6 km from central Stanley. It is part of the Cabo Pembroke peninsula, which is a nature reserve, and is the easiest wildlife spot to visit from the capital.
The star of the place is the Magellanic penguin, which spends spring and summer on the islands. It makes burrows in the grassy banks around the beach, and for that reason has the local nickname "jackass penguin," because its call resembles a donkey's bray. The penguins are usually in the colony from October to March, and late afternoon is when they are most audible.
A dirt trail and boardwalks circle the cove, with viewpoints over the beach and burrows. Along the way you may see geese, steamer ducks, oystercatchers and, sometimes, sea lions on the rocks. In clear weather the water's color and the white sand stand out against the rest of the landscape of low grass and rock.
Access to the beach and to some parts of the peninsula is prohibited and fenced off. Always stay on marked trails, do not cross fences and do not approach the burrows. The route from Stanley passes the ponte Boxer and the hull of the Lady Elizabeth.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1 to 2 hours on the trail and at the viewpoints; add about 1.5 hours if walking from Stanley.
Best time
From October to March, when Magellanic penguins are in the colony. Late afternoon is usually quieter and is when the penguins are most vocal.
How to get there
It is about 6 km from central Stanley, by taxi, car or on foot along the road that heads east, passing the Lady Elizabeth and the ponte Boxer. There is a small parking area at the start of the trail.
Tip
Bring binoculars and a windbreaker. Keep your distance from the penguins and the burrows and never leave the trail or go past fences, even to reach the sand.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Gypsy Cove
What penguins can be seen at Gypsy Cove?
Mostly Magellanic penguins, which dig burrows in the banks around the beach between October and March. Occasionally gentoo penguins also appear.
Can you go down to the beach at Gypsy Cove?
No. The beach and some areas of the peninsula are fenced off and access is prohibited. Visits are made via the trails and viewpoints.
Can you walk from Stanley to Gypsy Cove?
Yes: it's about 6 km along the road heading east, passing the Lady Elizabeth and the ponte Boxer. Bring water and a windbreaker.
What is the best time to go?
Late afternoon, between October and March, when there is less activity and the penguins tend to be more active.