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Nature reserve · Stanley, Malvina Oriental (East Falkland)
Volunteer Point
The headland north of Stanley with the largest colony of king penguins in the islands, alongside gentoo and Magellanic penguins, on a 3 km white-sand beach. It is reached in about three hours by 4x4, with a guide.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Volunteer Point
Volunteer Point is a cape on the east coast of Malvina Oriental, north of Stanley, at the end of a narrow peninsula that shelters Volunteer lagoon. The name comes from the ship Volunteer, which visited the islands in 1815. The area has been a nature reserve since 1968 and lies within the Johnson's Harbour farm, privately owned.
What draws visitors is the largest colony of king penguins on the islands, with hundreds of pairs, on the edge of a white-sand beach of about 3 km, Volunteer Beach. King penguins, the largest on the islands, are there year-round; adults and chicks covered in brown down coexist in the colony. Nearby are colonies of gentoo and Magellanic penguins, as well as geese, steamer ducks and sea lions.
The journey is part of the experience: about two hours on a dirt road and then an off-road stretch over peat and grass, possible only in a 4x4. For that reason most visitors go with local guides, who know the route and arrange the landowner's permission. There are also helicopter trips depending on availability.
At the colony the rules are simple: keep your distance from the penguins, do not stand in their path between the sea and the colony, follow the markings and do not leave anything behind. The busiest time at the colony is usually October to March.
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
A full day from Stanley: about three hours each way, two to three hours at the colony, and three hours back.
Best time
From October to March, with long days and more activity in the colonies. King penguins are there year-round, but off-road access becomes more difficult in wet weather.
How to get there
It lies north of Stanley, about two hours on a dirt road and then an off-road stretch, only by 4x4. The trip is done with local guides from Stanley; book in advance.
Tip
Book the tour in advance, especially on cruise days. Bring snacks, water and layered clothing, because there are no services on site, and sit quietly a few meters from the colony: the penguins keep to their routine.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Volunteer Point
What penguins are seen at Volunteer Point?
King penguins, in the islands' largest colony, as well as gentoo and Magellanic penguins.
Do you need a guide to go to Volunteer Point?
In practice, yes. The route includes off-road sections that require a 4x4 and local knowledge, and the area is on a private farm that requires permission. Stanley guides handle this.
How long does it take from Stanley to Volunteer Point?
About three hours each way, on dirt roads and off-road sections.
Can you see king penguins year-round?
King penguins remain at the colony year-round, but the busiest season is usually October to March. Check road conditions before you go.