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Few scams

South America

Tourist scams in Falkland Islands

Crime is described as relatively unknown in the Falkland Islands, and no specific tourist scams or human theft methods are described. One unusual risk is that wild birds called Johnny rooks may take phones, cameras or hats.
  1. 1 TheftOccasionalJohnny rooks taking belongingsJohnny rooks, also called striated caracaras, are fearless birds that approach people closely. They may take phones, cameras and hats. This is wildlife behaviour, not a human scam.Across the country 3Read

Habits that keep you safe

Your belongings

  • Do not leave belongings unattended.
  • Keep phones, cameras and hats secure around Johnny rooks.
  • Avoid travelling alone late at night.
  • Keep a separate copy of important travel documents.

Taxis

  • Book airport taxis in advance.
  • Book the airport shuttle in advance too.
  • Confirm the fare and pickup details before travelling.

Money

  • British pounds are generally accepted throughout the islands.
  • Check payment options before visiting outlying islands. Cards will probably not be accepted there.
  • Exchange leftover Falkland Islands currency before leaving. It is nearly impossible to exchange elsewhere.
  • Keep spare money available for flight delays.

Cards and ATMs

  • Do not rely on easy access to cash machines. The bank in Stanley has no ATM.
  • The listed ATM is at Stanley Services on the bypass. Check availability before relying on it.
  • Shield your PIN and keep your card in sight when paying.
  • Keep your card issuer's contact details somewhere separate from your card.

Where you stay

  • Ask lodge owners which payment methods they accept before arrival.
  • Keep booking confirmations and payment receipts.
  • Allow spare time and money in case flight delays extend your stay.

Police and officials

  • Expect detailed baggage checks at Mount Pleasant Airport. A thorough search alone is not evidence of a scam.
  • Follow airport staff instructions during checks.
  • Contact the police if you encounter a crime or need help.

Questions

Are tourist scams common in the Falkland Islands?

Crime is described as relatively unknown. No specific tourist scams are described, but you should still take normal precautions with belongings and payments.

Are there known pickpocket or tout hotspots?

No named places are identified as pickpocket, scam or tout hotspots.

Could birds really take my phone or camera?

Yes. Johnny rooks may take phones, cameras and hats. Keep small items secured and never feed or chase the birds.

How can I avoid problems with airport transport?

Book airport taxis in advance. The airport shuttle should also be booked ahead. Confirm the fare and pickup details before travelling.

Can I pay by card everywhere?

No. Cards are often accepted in Stanley, but will probably not be accepted on outlying islands. Ask your accommodation or other provider before arrival.

Will I be able to withdraw cash easily?

Do not count on it. The bank in Stanley has no ATM. An ATM is listed at Stanley Services on the bypass, but check availability before relying on it.

Should I exchange local currency before leaving?

Yes. Falkland Islands currency is nearly impossible to exchange outside the islands. British pounds are generally accepted throughout the islands.

Does a detailed airport bag search mean I am being scammed?

No. Mount Pleasant is a military base, and baggage checks can be very detailed. Follow staff instructions.

Are flight delays a scam?

The described delays are transport problems, not scams. Flights may be several days late, so keep spare time and money available.

What should I do after theft or a suspicious card payment?

Get somewhere safe, contact the police and block any affected cards. Save evidence and contact your insurer. Call 999 if there is an emergency.

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