CHEESEMANS’ ECOLOGY SAFARIS
555 North Santa Cruz Avenue
Los Gatos, CA 95030-4336 USA
(800) 527-5330 (408) 741-5330
[email protected]
cheesemans.com
Falkland Islands
Seven Island Circuit
January 31 to February 17, 2019
Magellanic Penguins
SAFARI OVERVIEW
Trek through the most diverse wildlife habitats in the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas). Take in the abundant
seabird colonies of the western Falklands including Gentoo, Magellanic, and Rockhopper Penguins. Explore
Sea Lion Island, the most species-rich site in all the Falklands with time to watch South American Sea Lions
and observe Orcas patrolling for unwary Southern Elephant Seals. Witness Magellanic Penguins as they ride
the surf in to the beach and then waddle to their underground burrows. With three days on Steeple Jason
Island – a place very few have the opportunity to stay – you’ll have ample time explore on foot and to sit
quietly alongside the Black-browed Albatross colony and watch as they take off, land, court, and preen each
other. Pebble, Bleaker, and Volunteer Point on East Falkland Island round out this complete Falklands wildlife
experience.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Visit seven diverse islands: Carcass, West Point, Sea Lion, Steeple Jason, Bleaker, Pebble, and East
Falkland Islands.
• Three days and nights on Steeple Jason Island for up-close views of the earth’s largest Black-browed
Albatross colony.
• Three nights each in comfortable private lodges on Sea Lion and Carcass Islands with a full-day boat
excursion to West Point Island.
• Discover the largest accessible King Penguin colony outside of South Georgia along the turquoise
waters of Volunteer Point.
Cheesemans’ Ecology Safaris
Itinerary Updated: May 2017
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LEADER: Hugh Rose.
DAYS: 18, including estimated travel time.
GROUP SIZE: 8.
COST: $9,950 per person, double occupancy, not including airfare (except flights listed as included), singles
extra. See the Costs section on page 6.
CONDITIONS: This is a non-smoking tour for people who are very interested in spending the maximum
time in nature. See the Conditions section on page 8.
Date
Jan 31
Feb 1
Feb 2
Feb 3
Feb 4–5
Feb 6–7
Feb 8
Feb 9–11
Feb 12–13
Feb 14
Feb 15
Feb 16
Feb 17
Description
Depart home.
Arrive in Santiago.
Accommodations
Santiago Airport
Holiday Inn, Santiago,
Chile
Bleaker Island Lodge
Meals
___
Fly to Mount Pleasant, Falkland Islands, then fly
B, L, D
to Bleaker Island.
Explore Bleaker Island’s Rockhopper Penguins,
King Cormorants, and waterfowl.
Fly to Sea Lion Island for introductory tour and
Sea Lion Lodge
B, L, D
enjoy the most wildlife diversity in the Falklands.
Fly to Pebble Island; explore its varied
Pebble Island Lodge
B, L, D
landscapes and wildlife habitats.
Fly to and explore Carcass Island, discovering a
Managers House,
B, L, D
variety of bird species.
Carcass Island
Sail to Steeple Jason Island for three nights.
Steeple Jason Island
B, L, D
Explore the world’s largest Black-browed
House
Albatross colony.
Return to Carcass Island with one full-day boat
Managers House,
B, L, D
excursion to West Point Island.
Carcass Island
Fly to Stanley for city tour and museum visit.
The Malvina House
B, L, D
Hotel, Stanley
Full-day excursion to Volunteer Point.
Fly to Santiago to connect to flights home or fly to Punta Arenas if
B, L
continuing on our Antarctic Peninsula voyage.
Arrive home, or if continuing on our Antarctic Peninsula voyage, optional day
excursions in Punta Arenas.
OPTIONS
•
Extend your trip and join us aboard the Ioffe on our Antarctic Peninsula: Whales and Landscapes
Expedition on February 16 to March 5, 2019, immediately after this safari. See separate itinerary:
www.cheesemans.com/trips/antarctic-peninsula-feb2019
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Itinerary Updated: May 2017
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LEADER
Hugh Rose
Expedition and Trip Leader, Naturalist, Geologist, and Photographer,
Hugh has over 20 years of professional guiding experience. The vast
landscapes and incredible wildlife of Alaska and the Polar Regions are his
subject and passion, evident in his inspired leadership and stunning
professional photos. Hugh receives unending praise for his amazing
knowledge, delightful and accommodating personality, and attention to
every trip detail.
DETAILED ITINERARY
Jan 31 ~ Depart home
Feb 1 ~ Arrive in Santiago, Chile
Arrive in Santiago, Chile. Transfer to our hotel for a free day to rest or explore historic and colorful Santiago.
Feb 2 ~ Fly to Falkland Islands, then fly to Bleaker Island
Take the once-weekly flight from Santiago to Mount Pleasant Airport in the Falkland Islands (not included in
trip cost). Upon arrival, you will be greeted with a packed lunch and escorted to your flight to Bleaker Island.
Feb 3 ~ Bleaker Island
You’ll spend your time on Bleaker hiking along this small, wildlife-rich island, including Long Gulch, which is
just one of a number of the dramatic inlets in the rocky cliffs. The top of the cliff-top is bordered with tussock
grass where about 9,000 pairs of Imperial (King) Cormorants group together and are joined by a colony of
about 750 pairs of Rockhopper Penguins, a Bleaker Island highlight. Other highlights you may experience are
a Gentoo Penguin highway, Magellanic Penguin burrows dotted across the island, and waterfowl at Big
Pond.
Black-browed Albatross
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Itinerary Updated: May 2017
Feb 4–5 ~ Sea Lion Island
Sea Lion Island is one of the smallest in the Falklands archipelago (just five
miles long and just over one mile wide at its widest point), and the most
southerly-inhabited island. The sheer abundance of wildlife in such a small
area makes it a must on any Falklands itinerary. Sea Lion Island hosts over 47
species of bird, including Rockhopper, Gentoo, and Magellanic penguins; you
will be graced by some of the 2,800 breeding pairs of Gentoo Penguins with
hatched chicks, and scatterings of Southern Giant-Petrels. Please give giantpetrels a wide berth, they can be very nervous and abandon their nests with
minimal disturbance. Other birds you may encounter are South American
Snipe, Rufous-chested Dotterel, the endemic Cobb’s and Sedge wrens, small
birds that have recently been afforded protection from the tall grass that has
been allowed to grow after the removal of sheep from the island. 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. In February, the young pups and recently weaned are plentiful on the
beach, making for great behavioral watching. Also not to be missed are the
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South American (or 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.
Feb 6–7 ~ Pebble Island
Pebble Island is the third largest offshore island and is home to the longest sand beach in the Falklands.
Pebble was named in the 1760’s after the beautiful semi-precious pebbles that were discovered on its
western beaches. The landscape of Pebble Island varies greatly from pristine beaches, moor lands, and rocky
peaks to an extensive area of ponds and wetlands, and dramatic coastal cliffs. All of these provide vital
breeding habitats for an incredible list of resident bird species. The deep ponds on the east of the island,
many of which are within walking distance of the lodge, are home to Chiloe Wigeon, Silvery Grebes, Blacknecked Swans, and multitude of other wildfowl and wading birds. Many thousands of Gentoo, Rockhopper
and Magellanic penguins breed on Pebble Island each summer.
Feb 8 ~ Carcass Island
Lying to the northwest of the Falklands archipelago, Carcass is one of the most picturesque outer-lying
islands. In its 100+ years of habitation this island has had only three owners, all environmentally conscious,
and an absence of cats and rats makes the luxuriant, well established hedges and trees an attractive home to
many small birds such as the Cobb’s Wren, Black-chinned Siskins, and Austral Thrush. The sandy beaches,
rolling hills and low cliffs are superb platforms from which to view the multitude of birds that either breed or
feed on and around this island, which include Gentoo and Magellanic penguins, Yellow-billed Pintails,
Falkland (or Flightless) Steamer-Ducks, Magellanic Oystercatchers, and Striated Caracaras. A growing colony
of Southern Elephant Seals can be found at the far north west point of the island. Both the north and south
of the island provide great hiking opportunities, taking in interesting flora, long white sand beaches (some
good beachcombing), penguin colonies, and sheltered dunes which make great picnic spots.
Feb 9–11 ~ Steeple Jason Island
Weather permitting; you will take a boat ride to Steeple Jason Island.
We will do everything in our power to get the group there, but
rough seas can delay or cancel this departure.
Steeple Jason is the outermost northwest island, now a reserve
owned by Wildlife Conservation Society. Albatross are the main
attraction, their nests thickly wrapping around the base of the
striking island. More Black-browed Albatross nest here than
anywhere else on earth, at least a quarter million birds! From a
distance, the immense colony on the lower shores looks like freshly
fallen snow. As you approach, you’ll see thousands of birds circling in
the air and rafting on the water like tiny icebergs, and once ashore,
maneuver through the tall, wispy tussock grass to arrive at the
colony and experience albatross flying very close overhead.
Southern Elephant Seals
Feb 12–13 ~ Return to Carcass Island with boat excursion to West
Point Island
The freedom from predation and active habitat restoration work by owner Rob McGill has blessed Carcass
with an immediately evident ambiance, different from anywhere else in the Falklands. You will have plenty
of time to explore this very special island with our guide or completely at your own leisure as you choose.
On West Point Island, experience vast numbers of Black-browed Albatross, Rockhopper Penguins, and
superb cliff scenery on our full day excursion. West Point lies off the most northwesterly point of West
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Falkland, west from Carcass about an hour by boat; during the transfer enjoy dolphins and birds swooping
down to feed in the rich seas.
Once on West Point Island you are free to explore the picturesque settlement, stop in for tea, and make your
way to Devil's Nose Cliffs – the wildlife hotspot. A lift across the two miles of gentle track may be available via
Land Rover. On the return journey, conditions permitting, we may circumnavigate West Point Island to give
spectacular photographic opportunities.
Feb 14 ~ Return to Stanley for city tour and museum visit
You’ll bid the outer islands farewell to return to Stanley, capital of the Falkland Islands. The timing of your
charter flight depends on weather and other flight schedules, but will likely be around midday. With a
population of around 2,000, Stanley is the smallest and most remote capital city in the world, in many ways
like an English village from decades ago with the addition of a Government House, a cathedral, and a wide
range of amenities and services. The city is built on a north-facing slope to catch the sun throughout the
year, looking across Stanley Harbor with its wealth of seabirds and trickle of shipping. Stanley’s historical
interest is associated with the great age of sail when rounding Cape Horn was the most daunting nautical
passage on the planet. Some of those ships still lie in the harbor, abandoned after a Cape Horn battering. A
self-guided Maritime History Trail has been set up in Stanley and guidebooks are available from local shops.
Stanley depicts a new vibrant Falklands, and is home to many successful businesses, with deep-sea fishing,
tourism, farming and most recently oil prospecting being the principle earners.
Feb 15 ~ Excursion to Volunteer Point
After about a 2.5-hour drive by Landrover, you’ll arrive at the white sandy beach and turquoise waters of
Volunteer Point, a destination with almost a Caribbeanesque feel to it, but the King, Gentoo, and Magellanic
penguins will bring you back to the Falklands. Discover the largest accessible King Penguin colony in the
Islands outside of South Georgia, containing approximately 1,000 adults. You may also find other wildlife
such as Long-tailed Meadowlarks, Austral Thrush, South American Snipe, and South American Tern, Blackish
and Magellanic oystercatchers, and Upland, Kelp, and Ruddy-headed geese. Enjoy the spectacular scenery as
you traverse the north of East Falkland.
Feb 16 ~ Flights home
Leave Mount Pleasant Airport and transfer to international flights homeward in Santiago, or to Punta Arenas
if you are joining our Antarctic Peninsula voyage.
Feb 17 ~ Arrive home
Black-browed Albatross colony at Steeple Jason Island
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Itinerary Updated: May 2017
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COSTS (all costs are in US dollars)
Cost
Type
Trip Cost, double occupancy
Single Supplement (subject to availability)
Cost per Person
$9,950
$1,400
We reserve the right to charge for cost increases that occur between when we set tour prices and the date of
travel, for example, changes due to the cost of lodging and transportation. If you are a single traveler and
you desire, we will find a roommate for you. If we cannot find you a roommate, we may charge you a single
supplement fee. Single rooms are subject to availability.
Payment Schedule
Payment
Deposit
Second
Final
Due Date
Due now to reserve your space
March 1, 2018
September 1, 2018
Amount per Person
$500
$2,000
Remaining Balance
Payments will be due based on the schedule above. All reservations require a deposit to confirm reservation
of your space. For reservations made after a due date, all past payments will be due with registration. By
sending your initial deposit, you agree to accept our payment schedule and cancellation policy as a contract.
If payments are still outstanding two weeks after the due date, your space may be forfeited.
Cancellations
Until the Final Payment due date, deposits are refundable except for a cancellation fee of $150 per person,
which can be applied toward another tour if reserved within six months of the cancelled trip’s departure
date. Cancellations are non-transferrable. No refunds are given after the Final Payment due date.
Included
• All leaders, transport, landing fees, and permits for all activities unless described as optional.
• Internal flights in the Falkland Islands: Stanley to Bleaker Island, Bleaker Island to Sea Lion Island, Sea
Lion Island to Pebble Island, Pebble Island to Carcass Island, and Carcass Island to Stanley.
• Meals from breakfast on February 2 through lunch on February 16.
• Accommodations for the nights of February 1 through February 15.
• Trip Materials - information about flights, packing, entry and departure requirements, airport
transfers, gratuities, etc.
Not Included
• All airfare (except flights listed as included), airport and departure taxes, and excess baggage fees.
Airfare is approximately $2,000–$2,500 from the USA to Mount Pleasant, depending on origin.
• Passport and visa fees.
• Gratuities: Tipping is, of course, discretionary, however we suggest budgeting about $10 per
participant per day for February 2 to 14 for guides and hotel staff (about $130 total per participant).
• We can arrange divergent airport transfers and extra hotel nights for an extra cost.
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•
•
•
Emergency medical and evacuation insurance, but it is required for you to purchase. For more
information see www.cheesemans.com/travel-insurance
Trip cancellation insurance. For more information see www.cheesemans.com/travel-insurance
Items of a personal nature such as laundry, telephone calls, medical costs or hospitalization, room
service, alcoholic and other beverages, and items not on the regular menu, etc. If you have special
dietary needs, please indicate them on your Reservation/Release Form.
SIGN UP
Please contact us first to check availability, reserve your space, and obtain a Reservation/Release Form. To
confirm your reservation, we require a deposit and signed form from each participant.
Cheesemans' Ecology Safaris
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.cheesemans.com
Skype: cheesemansecologysafaris
Phone: (800) 527-5330 or (408) 741-5330
Fax: (408) 741-0358
OTHER DETAILS
Climate
Daytime temperatures are generally 40 to 50°F (10 to 15°C). Wet, penetrating cold is not usually a problem,
but you will need to protect against almost constant wind and sea splash, especially when riding in the
Zodiacs. Mittens, warm hat, layers of clothing, parka, and waterproof outer garments are necessary.
Fitness Level
This safari requires the ability to hike moderate distances, perhaps up to three miles, with small elevation
gains. To visit Steeple Jason, you must be able to easily get in and out of a Zodiac and climb over boulders
while carrying your gear. Please contact us if you have any health concerns that may make this trip
challenging.
Transportation
You’ll travel by bus, land rover, small boat and small plane. Repacking and leaving some luggage temporarily
in Stanley may be necessary as there will be strict luggage weight limits and space on flights. More
information will be provided in the Trip Materials.
Accommodations
The accommodations vary among the islands and outside communication is limited. Our lodging on Steeple
Jason consists of one large room shared with other Cheesemans’ travelers and one shared bathroom for all
participants.
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Flights
International airfare is not included in trip costs, but internal flights in the Falklands are included. Detailed
logistical information and the contact information for our recommended flight-ticketing agent are included
in the Trip Materials we will send you. Please let us know if you are arriving earlier or staying later.
Flights you (or a travel agent) book: Arrive in Santiago, Chile (SCL) by February 1. Continue to Stanley,
Falkland Islands (MPN) via Punta Arenas, Chile on February 2 on a once-weekly LAN Airlines flight. Depart
from Stanley on February 16 to Punta Arenas if you are continuing onto the Antarctic Peninsula expedition,
or to Santiago to catch flights homeward.
Flights we book for you: Flights from Stanley, Falkland Islands to Bleaker Island, Bleaker Island to Sea Lion
Island, Sea Lion Island to Pebble Island, Pebble Island to Carcass Island, and Carcass Island to Stanley. The
cost of these bookings is included in the tour cost.
Seasickness
Don't let a fear of seasickness scare you away! For all but the most sensitive, seasickness is rarely a problem in
this region. It’s a good idea to bring medication if you get seasick or are unsure, but you may find that you do
not need it after a couple days once you have your “sea legs.” Even those who have experienced seasickness
reported that the incredible wildlife and overall experience were well worth the temporary discomfort. Read
our suggestions for coping with seasickness at www.cheesemans.com/seasickness and contact us if you
have any concerns.
Conditions
• Non-smoking policy: We have a strict non-smoking policy. Smoking is not permitted at any time or any
place during our tours.
• Maximum time in nature: We try to spend as much time in nature as possible, sometimes resulting in
long days but giving you a more in-depth experience.
• Itinerary route: The itinerary route, stops, and plans are subject to change by unforeseen circumstances
beyond our control, such as weather or road conditions.
• Additional forms: For some of our tours, you may be asked to fill out additional forms (e.g., medical
questionnaire).
• Medical conditions and travel risks: Travel to remote places is exciting, but it is important to
understand and accept the risks, both medical and logistical. Minor medical problems can usually be
treated, but because we are often far from medical facilities, there can be no expectation for immediate
medical treatment or evacuation, even in cases of trauma. Anyone with health problems needing close
medical supervision should not consider going on this tour. Bring enough medication for the duration of
the trip for any chronic medical needs, since pharmacies are usually not available. When you send your
deposit and signed Reservation/Release Form, you certify to us that you do not knowingly have any
physical or other conditions that would create a risk for yourself or for other trip participants.
Conservation
Cheesemans' Ecology Safaris is passionate about conserving the precious regions to which we travel and we
have supported many conservation efforts over the years. By visiting these areas, we contribute to
sustainable conservation of these valuable wildlife habitats. We urge you to support conservation
organizations that protect and restore natural habitats and write letters to tourism and government
agencies to promote work in preserving wildlife. We aim to make all our trips carbon neutral by splitting the
cost of carbon offsetting with our participants. For your convenience, the optional donation amount for your
half of the carbon offset will be indicated on your invoice. We source high quality offsets through
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Itinerary Updated: May 2017
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CarbonTree Conservation Fund, a non-profit we helped found, supporting pioneering forest conservation in
the Valdivian Coastal Reserve, a Nature Conservancy project (http://bit.ly/valdivia_tnc).
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Itinerary Updated: May 2017
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