Sea Lion Island is one of the smallest in the Falklands archipelago (just 5 miles long and just over a mile wide at its widest point), and also the most southerly inhabited island, but it is still a prime destination with the sheer abundance of wildlife in such a small area making it a must on any Falklands itinerary.
- Go in search of the very rare Striated Caracara
- Enjoy some wonderful walks along beaches, over moors and beside cliffs
- Watch Killer whale pods searching for seals and penguins
- Enjoy the comings & goings of the Gentoo penguin colony
Beautiful plantations of the spectacular tussac grass cover one fifth of the island and provide a perfect habitat and protection for much of the islands’ varied fauna. Besides the tussac grass, there are dazzling white sand beaches, cliffs, fresh water ponds and heath land, all with their own populations and all within walking distance.
There are over 47 species of bird to be found, including Rockhopper, Gentoo and Magellanic penguins and one of the world’s rarest birds of prey, the Striated Caracara; this is a haven for birdwatchers and photographers. However perhaps by far the biggest attraction is the large number of Southern elephant seals that breed here, principally on the white sandy beach at the appropriately named Elephant Corner. Also not to be missed are the Southern Sea Lions at East Loafers.
Pods of Killer whales are also often seen circling close offshore (usually a treat for the early risers) attracted by the prospect of penguins and seals. The proximity of much of this wildlife to the lodge and the easy walking terrain makes it a great destination for families or those less agile.
On a more sombre note, Sea Lion Island is the site of the memorial to HMS Sheffield which was sunk by Argentine forces in 1982, and the island is also home to the grave of one of the 3 civilians killed during the Conflict.