Show More
Magdalena Island Penguin Reserve
Strenuous Activity
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
Your full-day tour begins as you board your transportation for a short drive to the scenic cruise boarding area in Punta Arenas for an approximately two-hour navigation northward in the Strait of Magellan.
Magdalena Island, located in the Strait of Magellan, is one of Chile's largest and most important Magellanic penguin breeding sites with over 100,000 pairs. Sometimes called the Jackass penguin, the Magellenic is the largest species of warm-water penguins, sporting a white chin strap marking, a pink line at their lower jaw and black bill.
Upon arriving on the island, you'll spend nearly an hour observing these whimsical penguins in their natural habitat. You'll spy burrows of breeding pairs sometimes in the middle of a trail or immediately next to the fences that separate you from this whimsical colony. As they're a noisy "bunch," you'll be greeted by squawks and shrieks, some from growing babies just losing their fuzzy coats.
Each year from November through to January, Magellanic penguins, named after Magellan who was the first European to see one, arrive on Isla Magdalena on the Chilean coast to meet and mate.
Points of interest
Magellanic Penguins at Magdalena Island or Otway
Schedule
Special Notes
Rough sea conditions can be experienced on the approximately two hour scenic cruise journey to Magdalena Island; passengers prone to seasickness should take this into consideration.
The island is a reserve and facilities are limited; walking is on mostly flat marked paths. Passengers will disembark via the ramp directly onto shore. Dress warmly and wear sturdy walking shoes. Take along a wind breaker and a cap for protection from the wind.
Transportation may not be air-conditioned.
Tour duration may vary depending on the crossing conditions experienced during the ferry transfer.
Exceptional Value
Book shore excursions with confidence! We offer competitive pricing, friendly service and unmatched destination expertise.
Strenuous Activity
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
Your full-day tour begins as you board your transportation for a short drive to the scenic cruise boarding area in Punta Arenas for an approximately two-hour navigation northward in the Strait of Magellan.
Magdalena Island, located in the Strait of Magellan, is one of Chile's largest and most important Magellanic penguin breeding sites with over 100,000 pairs. Sometimes called the Jackass penguin, the Magellenic is the largest species of warm-water penguins, sporting a white chin strap marking, a pink line at their lower jaw and black bill.
Upon arriving on the island, you'll spend nearly an hour observing these whimsical penguins in their natural habitat. You'll spy burrows of breeding pairs sometimes in the middle of a trail or immediately next to the fences that separate you from this whimsical colony. As they're a noisy "bunch," you'll be greeted by squawks and shrieks, some from growing babies just losing their fuzzy coats.
Each year from November through to January, Magellanic penguins, named after Magellan who was the first European to see one, arrive on Isla Magdalena on the Chilean coast to meet and mate.
Points of interest
Magellanic Penguins at Magdalena Island or Otway
Schedule
Special Notes
Rough sea conditions can be experienced on the approximately two hour scenic cruise journey to Magdalena Island; passengers prone to seasickness should take this into consideration.
The island is a reserve and facilities are limited; walking is on mostly flat marked paths. Passengers will disembark via the ramp directly onto shore. Dress warmly and wear sturdy walking shoes. Take along a wind breaker and a cap for protection from the wind.
Transportation may not be air-conditioned.
Tour duration may vary depending on the crossing conditions experienced during the ferry transfer.