Be sure to catch the special commemorative Darwin exhibition at the Falkland Islands Museum in Stanley, a one and a half hour drive from Darwin, running until April 2009, before heading outside the settlements to do some exploring of your own. With over 770 islands in the Falklands archipelago, there’s no shortage of unspoilt wilderness! The Falklands wildlife viewing experience is unsurpassed, with abundant marine and birdlife; elephants seals, sea lions, rare birds of prey, black browed albatross and five different breeds of around 770,000 penguins live on the islands, to name but a few.

For adventure seekers, the rolling countryside or camp surrounding the capital Stanley offers horseriding, fishing and fabulous walking. Darwin spent some of his time with the gauchos, and a camp visit is a must for anyone wanting to experience the ‘real Falklands’ – from working sheep farms to spectacular beaches crowded with elephant seals. The islands are a nature lover’s haven and it’s an off-the-beaten-track destination which welcomes visitors back time again with its unspoilt, raw quality and idyllic charm.

Steppes Travel (01285 885333; www.steppestravel.co.uk) offers a seven-night ‘Falklands Wildlife’ journey from £1,550 per person. This package excludes international flights.

For further information on the Falklands Islands, please visit www.falklandislands.com and www.falklands.gov.fk.