Kidney Island Evening Birding and Seabird Tour
Cross from Stanley to permit-only Kidney Island for an evening among endemic land birds, penguins and seabirds returning to their burrows at dusk.
About this tour
Kidney Island lies about 16 kilometres from Stanley and can be visited only by boat, with a permit and guide. The crossing takes roughly 30 minutes and is part of the wildlife experience: seabirds and penguins may be seen from the water, while dolphins or whales are possible under suitable seasonal conditions.
A zodiac completes the landing on the island’s pebble-and-sand shore. Most of this 32-hectare reserve is covered by tall, dense tussac grass, so progress requires patience, careful footing and enough fitness to remain with the group. Wildlife can be close to the path, and the guide’s distance and movement instructions are important.
On land, the birding can bring Falkland Steamer Duck, Cobb’s Wren and Tussac Bird together with Rockhopper and Magellanic Penguins. The evening’s defining event comes near dusk, when Sooty Shearwaters and other burrow-nesting seabirds return from the sea. Each encounter remains shaped by season, weather and wild behaviour.
The complete experience lasts approximately four hours, including around three hours on Kidney Island. Evening departure from Stanley normally follows sunset timing, and the maximum party is 12 people including the guide. Private visits and places for individual travellers may be possible, subject to the confirmed departure.
Ask BirdWatch to confirm a future departure, available space and its current cost; earlier-season terms do not carry forward. The confirmed plan must also cover vessel arrangements, the zodiac landing, guide service and whether conditions permit a safe island visit.
Guides
Itinerary
Day 1
From Stanley harbour to the dusk seabird return
Leave Stanley by boat for the roughly 30-minute crossing, using the journey to scan for seabirds and other wildlife. A zodiac handles the final shore transfer. Once landed, take a careful guided route across tussac and coastal ground to look for endemic birds and penguins. Reserve the later visit for returning Sooty Shearwaters, then travel back to Stanley; weather, landing safety and wildlife conditions may change the sequence.
Locations & map
- Kidney Island - East Falkland Falkland Islands
- Stanley - East Falkland Falkland Islands
2 stops. Select a marker for its name.
Availability & pricing
Availability: Available on request · Season: Evening departures by confirmed request; timing follows sunset and wildlife conditions
Price: Price on request
Included
- Guiding by Andy Pollard / Falklands Nature - Local birding, wildlife and photography knowledge
- Boat journey from Stanley - Subject to confirmed departure and conditions
- Zodiac transfer and guided island visit - Subject to safe access and permit arrangements
Not included
- Accommodation and meals - Not listed as included
- Personal outdoor clothing and equipment - Bring suitable warm, waterproof layers and sturdy footwear
Transport & stays
- Boat and zodiac The island is reached by boat from Stanley, followed by a short zodiac landing. All movements depend on weather, sea state and safe access. | Meet: Stanley departure point confirmed after inquiry | Pickup: Pickup or transfer arrangements are confirmed after inquiry.
Policies & FAQ
Cancellation Policy
Payment Terms
Insurance & Safety
How fit do I need to be?
A moderate level of fitness is required for uneven ground, a zodiac landing and walking through dense tussac while keeping pace with the group.
Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
No. The route is designed around established wildlife areas, but every sighting depends on season, weather and animal activity.
How is the departure time set?
Evening departures are normally planned between 5:00 pm and 6:00 pm and adjusted for sunset, season and operating conditions.
Send inquiry
Ask about this tour before booking. Your preferred date is optional and availability will be confirmed after your inquiry.