One of the ultimate wildlife viewing destinations
Travellers looking to follow in the footsteps of famous naturalist Charles Darwin in this anniversary year should look no further than the Falkland Islands. 2009 celebrates all things Darwin – 200 years since the birth of one of the most influential scientists and researchers, 150 years since the publication of his famous book ‘The Origin of Species’, plus the release later this year of ‘Creation’ – a movie based on Darwin’s fascinating life, starring Paul Bettany and Jennifer Connelly.

Often on people’s travel wish list, there’s no better time to visit and explore the Falklands than in this commemorative year. Darwin has long been associated with the Galapagos but his time on the Falklands is less well known, despite it hosting some of the best natural history and variety of wildlife which Darwin was so fond of reporting on. In fact, Darwin spent exactly twice as long in the Falklands as he did in the Galapagos, during his two visits (1833 and 1834) on board the HMS Beagle.

For the ideal ‘Darwin inspired’ Falklands adventure, begin a visit in the settlement of Darwin on East Falkland. Named after the naturalist, this is where Darwin spent much of his time while in the Falklands and its waterfront setting makes it the ideal location for watching wildlife such as night herons, ruddy-headed and upland geese, and blackish oystercatchers.