Embark on an extraordinary journey with us across the waters of the Strait of Magellan to explore the captivating Magdalena Island, a natural haven in the Punta Arenas region. This sailing adventure will immerse you in the stunning beauty and diverse wildlife that inhabit this secluded island.
The Los Pingüinos Natural Monument is situated in the Magallanes and Chilean Antarctic Region, approximately 35 kilometers northeast of Punta Arenas. This protected area is renowned for safeguarding wildlife species such as the Magellanic penguin, Dominican gull, black-browed albatross, and imperial cormorant. At the island's southwestern tip, you'll find both hairy and two-haired sea lions. While the island's vegetation is sparse, various grasses thrive in areas not populated by penguins and southern gulls.
Join us for this unforgettable sail to Magdalena Island and immerse yourself in a realm of natural marvels. From the variety of seabirds to the tranquility of the maritime scenery, every moment offers a deeper connection with the pristine nature of Patagonia.
Secure your spot and set sail on this thrilling adventure!
Tour Description
Embark with us today on an enchanting journey across the waters of the Strait of Magellan to explore the mesmerizing Magdalena Island, a natural haven located in the Punta Arenas region. This sailing adventure will submerge you in the captivating beauty and diverse wildlife that inhabit this remote island.
Our journey begins in Punta Arenas with a check-in at the South Bus Terminal in the city (Av. Colon 842). From there, a shuttle will transport us to the Arturo Prat Pier, where the excitement of this unique adventure starts to build. Whether you opt for a morning departure at 7:00 a.m. or an afternoon start at 1:30 p.m., our team will be ready to welcome you and kick off this exploration.
The highly anticipated moment arrives as we depart from the Arturo Prat Pier. On board, our bilingual guide will provide intriguing insights about the Strait of Magellan and the marvels that await at the Los Pingüinos Natural Monument. Departures are scheduled for either 8:00 a.m. or 2:30 p.m.
Indulge in the sea breeze and sweeping views as you sail the Strait of Magellan. The coastal vistas, featuring rugged cliffs and the expansive ocean, create an unmatched atmosphere of exploration.
We will sail for approximately an hour and a half through the waters of the Strait of Magellan, surrounded by a stunning seascape. Throughout the journey, our guide's narration enriches the experience with fascinating information about the region's flora and fauna.
A highlight of the trip is reaching the magnificent Magdalena Island at approximately 10:30 a.m. or 5:00 p.m. Upon setting foot on Magdalena Island, the grandeur of the local wildlife greets us. The island hosts one of the largest penguin colonies in the area, where these charming residents welcome us with their distinctive behaviors.
We will stroll along the island's trails for about an hour, encountering friendly Magellanic penguins up close. Observing their natural habitats and playful interactions, we capture delightful moments while enjoying their coastal surroundings. Additionally, we will witness the lives of northern gulls, black-browed albatrosses, and imperial cormorants up close. The island is a sanctuary for wildlife, and each moment unveils the harmony of nature.
We will explore the picturesque nooks of this stunning Magdalena Island, capturing its natural beauty with our cameras. From coastal landscapes to seabirds, every corner presents a unique photography opportunity.
After this extraordinary island experience, we will embark once more to head back to the Punta Arenas Pier. The return is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. or 6:30 p.m., concluding a day brimming with discoveries and connections with the region's marine life. Always remember to respect the natural environment and adhere to the guides' instructions to preserve wildlife.
Upon arrival at the pier, we will independently walk from the pier to our hotel in the city.
We invite you to experience the thrill of coming face-to-face with penguins at the Los Pingüinos Natural Monument. Join us and seize the opportunity to indulge in the wonders of Patagonian nature.
Book your adventure now and let the penguins enchant you with their unique charm!
What’s included?
What’s included:
Transfer from the South Bus Terminal to the pier/Port taxes/Entrance to the Penguins Natural Monument.
What’s NOT included:
Drinks or meals not specified/Tips or extras not specified/Entries not specified
Frequently Asked Questions
The best time to visit Magdalena Island and fully enjoy the Magellanic penguin watching experience is between October and March. During this period, the penguins are on the island for nesting, guaranteeing a large number of them and better opportunities for observation and photography. Additionally, weather conditions are generally more favorable for boating and tourism. It is advisable to book in advance during peak season to secure your spot.
The boat trip to the Magdalena Island Penguin Colony typically lasts about 5 hours, including the transfer from Punta Arenas to the dock. The tour includes round-trip boat transportation, entrance to the Los Pingüinos Natural Monument, a tour guide specializing in local nature and wildlife, and free time to explore the island's marked trail. Comfortable clothing suitable for the wind and low temperatures typical of southern Chile is recommended.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your Magdalena Island boat trip in advance, especially during peak season (southern summer, October to March) when tourist demand is highest. Boat capacity is limited due to environmental conservation and safety regulations, so booking early guarantees your spot. You can easily book through the BestChile.Tours website or contact them by email. This way, you'll secure your excursion and be able to plan your trip efficiently.
During the boat trip and visit to Magdalena Island, tourists can observe a large colony of Magellanic penguins, the main attraction of the Los Pingüinos Natural Monument. It's also possible to spot seabirds such as cormorants and gulls, as well as sea lions along the coast. The landscapes of the Strait of Magellan and the island offer breathtaking views, ideal for photography and enjoying Patagonian nature in its purest form. This is an unmissable excursion for ecotourism and wildlife enthusiasts.
To comfortably enjoy the boat trip to Magdalena Island, we recommend bringing waterproof clothing, a windbreaker, a hat, gloves, and comfortable, closed-toe shoes, as the weather is often cold and windy. It's important to protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and sunglasses, despite the low temperatures. We also advise bringing a camera and binoculars to observe and capture the details of the wildlife. The excursion is suitable for the whole family, but it is not recommended for people with reduced mobility due to the terrain.
PRICES 2026-2027
Tourist Cabin In The Morning
Includes: Transfer From The South Bus Terminal To The Pier/Port Taxes/Entrance To The Penguins Natural Monument.
- Start Time: 07:00
- Languages: ESP,ENG
- Duration: 6 hrs
- Operation Days: Every day
From
ARS 252.463
per person
Tourist Cabin In The Afternoon
Includes: Transfer From The South Bus Terminal To The Pier/Port Taxes/Entrance To The Los Pingüinos Natural Monument.
- Start Time: 13:30
- Languages: ESP,ENG
- Duration: 6 hrs
- Operation Days: Every day
From
ARS 252.463
per person
Vip Cabin In The Morning
Includes: Pick Up From And To Hotels In Punta Arenas/Transfer From The Southern Bus Terminal To The Pier/Port Taxes/Entrance To The Penguins Natural Monument/1 Snack Per Person.
- Start Time: 07:00
- Languages: ESP,ENG
- Duration: 6 hrs
- Operation Days: Every day
From
ARS 328.202
per person
Vip Cabin In The Afternoon
Includes: Pickup From And To Hotels In Punta Arenas/Transfer From The South Bus Terminal To The Pier/Port Taxes/Entrance To The Penguins Natural Monument/1 Snack Per Person.
- Start Time: 13:30
- Languages: ESP,ENG
- Duration: 6 hrs
- Operation Days: Every day
From
ARS 328.202
per person
Price per person based on a booking for 2 people. Prices may vary depending on the date and number of travelers.
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