Press Release Digest 19th June 2007

FALKLANDS REMEMBERED
15-DAY ANNIVERSARY TOUR
DEPARTS LONDON 29th OCTOBER

Thursday 14th June marked the 25th anniversary of the liberation of the Falkland Islands following the invasion by Argentina on 2nd February 1982. Rather than concentrate on personal tragedies, inspirational war veteran Simon Weston prefers to focus on the incredible achievement by armed forces to secure this remote British enclave and his recent trip back to the islands affirms his belief that “it was right and the lives lost were not lives wasted”. Walks Worldwide’s 15-day land-based itinerary provides a unique insight into island life amongst the wild, untamed landscape, home to an incredible array of wildlife, plus visits the impressive but very different, Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia. Tour departs London 29th October 07 (also 18th February 08).

Arriving in the South American continent there’s an opportunity to explore Chile’s renowned Torres del Paine National Park during a stay at EcoCamp Las Torres. From here, walkers embark on two treks, firstly to the famous Grey Glacier and secondly, a celebrated hike through the Valle Ascencio to the foot of the impressive granite massif of El Paine. Any aches and pains will soon be forgotten back at the eco-camp with a Pisco Sour or two, sipped contemplatively in an awesome location! Next, transfer by air, flying over Tierra del Fuego, to the military airport at Mount Pleasant on East Falkland, an immediate reminder of the 1982 conflict. Visit the historically important Darwin settlement, Pebble Island - the third largest offshore island in the archipelago, Port Howard - for some of the best walking on the islands, Sea Lion Island - a must on any Falklands itinerary for the sheer abundance of wildlife and the tiny capital, Port Stanley. A land-based tour really is the best way to experience the Falklands. Walks Worldwide’s itinerary not only offers time in the ‘bustle’ of Port Stanley but also gives travellers the opportunity to visit all the best highlights of ‘camp’ (the term used to describe all areas outside the capital), the outer islands, with their diversity of wildlife and scenery, as well as the traditional settlements of Darwin and Port Howard. Spend time in each location, getting up early to watch fur seals and penguins come ashore, albatross soaring from its clifftop nest, whilst enjoying sunrise from a deserted and windswept beach - all before breakfast! Being part of a small group allows travellers to appreciate the remarkable experience of getting up close to fearless colonies of penguins (the islands are home to 75% of the world’s Rockhopper and largest population of Gentoo), elephant seals, albatross (70% of the world’s Black-browed Albatrosses), sea-lions and many other wildlife species.

The tour costs £3,950 p/p including scheduled and internal flights, all transfers, accommodation, most meals and expert guiding.