Getting around in the Falkland Islands
MPC covers a large area and with no public transport and few pavements, the distance from family quarters to such places as the families ration shop or Medical centre make travel on foot impractical.
MPC is 35 miles from Stanley, the Island's capital and the journey normally takes about an hour, but considerably longer in bad weather. It is therefore essential for families to have their own transport. While the MPC roads are properly surfaced, off base they are not metalled, rough and invariably badly marked with potholes. Consequently, a Land Rover or other 4 wheel-drive vehicle is the most suitable form of transport. There are a number of methods of acquiring a 4 wheel-drive vehicle. You may be able to buy from your predecessor. If this is not possible, it is advisable to ask someone already at MPC to look out for any vehicles up for sale.
The alternative is to buy in the UK and ship down. Personnel who intend to ship a vehicle to the Falkland Islands should note that unleaded petrol is not available, only diesel. A guide for indulging vehicles to the Falkland Islands can be sent to you on request from the families Officer. A local driving licence is required by all posted to the Falklands for longer than 12 months; this can be purchased from the local police. No test is necessary, only third party, fire and theft insurance is available through the Falkland Islands Company (FIC) in Stanley or at "Rightlines". Road tax is payable as well as a registration and transfer of ownership fee of £30.00. Fuel can be purchased either in Stanley but is mostly obtained on a repayment basis through service sources at the MT Pumps.
Some sections allow their vehicles to be lent out to non accompanied personnel when they are not being used for operational reasons so if you are down for six months this is always an option. There is also a good free bus service for military and civilian staff run between Stanley and Mount Pleasant Complex (MPC) at the weekend and during special occasions.
Driving in the Falkland Islands
Driving is a necessary way to visit many parts of the Falkland Islands. However, you should be aware that there are certain dangers that can make driving extremely dangerous. For example, the road surfacing may change suddenly from metalled tarmac to loose shale and shingle. This means that sudden braking and steering may cause the vehicle to loose traction and skid. Most roads are raised with deep drainage channels at either side to allow rapid water dispersion. There are few crash barriers or road markings. Such dangers are the reason for the strictly enforced 40mph speed limit on rural roads. Due to this speeding fines are incredibly expensive when compared to the fines enforced in the UK and can easily run into hundreds of pounds. If you are caught speeding in theatre, the Royal Falkland Islands Police will endorse your UK driving licence, if you do not have a Falkland Islands counterpart.
To obtain a Falkland Islands licence, you must go to the Police Station in Stanley with a photograph and £5.00.
These plus other factors such as rapidly changing weather, freely roaming animals and the isolated nature of many routes can be challenging even for experienced drivers. On arrival ensure that you attend the driving brief which will provide advice and tips aimed to help you to drive safely in the Falklands.
Heliops
Warrants for R&R may be used to obtain trips to outer islands and remote locations. Further, groups may get together to make a 'helibid' to these locations. It is better to read the rules once you have arrived.
Falkland Islands Government Air Service (FIGAS)
FIGAS operates Islander passenger aircraft that provide internal air services throughout the Falklands. This can cost depending on how it is arranged so please speak to the Mount Pleasant Travel staff and the W & R clerk when you arrive.