Cruising across the historic waters of the Strait of Magellan from Punta Arenas leads to the protected wildlife sanctuaries of Isla Magdalena and Isla Marta (Los Pingüinos Natural Monument). Isla Magdalena hosts one of the largest Magellanic penguin colonies in South America, supporting more than 60000 breeding pairs that nest across the island during the southern summer.
Walking the dedicated trails on the island brings visitors into close contact with thousands of nesting penguins, while nearby Isla Marta shelters noisy colonies of South American sea lions and imperial cormorants.
| Location | Isla Magdalena and Isla Marta, Strait of Magellan, Chile |
| Activity Type | Island Wildlife Boat Expedition |
| Scale | Over 60000 breeding pairs of Magellanic Penguins |
| Duration | Half Day (4 to 5 hours total) |
| Starting Point | Muelle Prat or Bahía Laredo, Punta Arenas |
| Difficulty | Easy walking on designated island paths |
| Best Season | November to early March (breeding season) |
| Date Visited | December 31, 2021 |
TRAILHEAD AND PLANNING LOGISTICS
Tour catamarans and ferries depart daily from Punta Arenas, either from Muelle Prat in the city center or from Bahía Laredo, located 25 kilometers north of town. The excursion operates strictly between November and early March, aligning with the seasonal presence of the migratory penguins.
Trips are weather dependent, as strong westerly winds along the Strait of Magellan can occasionally cause choppy seas or port closures. Advance booking is recommended, particularly around the busy holiday period.
THE ROUTE AND TRAIL REPORT
Navigation on the Strait: The journey begins with a two hour crossing across the historic Strait of Magellan, famous in maritime history since Ferdinand Magellan first navigated its waters in 1520. Black and white Commerson dolphins frequently ride the bow waves of the catamaran.
Walking Among Thousands of Penguins: Arriving at Isla Magdalena, visitors disembark via a floating gangway onto the pebble beach. A roped walking path leads one kilometer up to the historic red and white San Isidro lighthouse. The island is completely covered in nesting burrows, with thousands of penguins waddling across the path, calling to their mates, and feeding their young chicks.
Isla Marta Sea Lion Colony: On the return voyage, the vessel circles the rocky shores of Isla Marta. While landing is prohibited to protect the animals, the boat cruises near the cliffs to view hundreds of large sea lions lounging on the rocks and diving in the surf.
PRACTICAL TIPS AND ESSENTIALS
Warm Outerwear: The maritime winds on the Strait of Magellan are persistently cold. Pack a windproof jacket, fleece layer, warm hat, and gloves.
Wildlife Etiquette: Stay strictly within the roped path. Penguins always have the right of way; if a penguin crosses the trail, wait patiently until it has passed safely.
PHOTO GALLERY
