Sara and John say...

If you’ve ever been to Orkney or Shetland, that might give you a helpful idea of what to expect from the weather in the Falkland Islands.

It’s a windswept territory all year-round, although there are occasional calm and peaceful days to enjoy. South Atlantic weather systems bring regular supplies of rainfall, interspersed by dazzling sunshine.

Temperatures fluctuate on a daily basis, but the summer months from November to March are warmest - often reaching the mid to high teens by day. And although any warmth is tempered by the wind, be aware that the sun is deceptively strong. So don’t get caught out - sunscreen is essential, along with the waterproofs.

Through the autumn months, the temperatures fall away. The months that follow are cold. Daytimes typically hover just above freezing in winter, but regularly dip below, especially when southerly winds from Antarctica arrive. The windchill is often high, but because the islands are surrounded by the moderating influence of the ocean, severe cold is actually quite rare.

Rain, snow and crisp sunshine vie for dominance through the winter. It’s a time reserved for the most hardy of visitors. But if you dress for the elements, the prize at any time of year is an unspoilt and pristine landscape of rare wildlife and ever-changing dramatic skies.

Quick facts about

Falklands