Experience one of Patagonia’s most iconic wildlife excursions sailing through the historic Strait of Magellan until reaching the famous Magdalena Island penguin colony near Punta Arenas.
The Magdalena Island Penguin Colony Navigation is an ideal excursion for travelers who want to observe Magellanic penguins in their natural habitat while enjoying scenic navigation, wildlife photography and unique landscapes at the southern tip of Chile.
The experience begins in Punta Arenas, where you will sail through the waters of the Strait of Magellan toward the Los Pingüinos Natural Monument located on Magdalena Island. During the journey, you will enjoy panoramic views of the strait and observe Patagonian seabirds.
Once on the island, you will have free time to walk along marked trails among thousands of Magellanic penguins inhabiting the area during breeding season. You may also visit the historic Magdalena Island lighthouse and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the strait.
Magdalena Island is considered one of the most important Magellanic penguin colonies in Chile and Patagonia, with tens of thousands of penguins during peak season.
Duration
Half Day
Approx. 4 to 5 hours including navigation and island visit.
Route
- Punta Arenas
- Strait of Magellan
- Magdalena Island
- Los Pingüinos Natural Monument
- Magdalena Island Lighthouse
What You Will See
- Magellanic penguins
- Strait of Magellan
- Historic lighthouse
- Seabirds
- Patagonian landscapes
- Wildlife colonies
Ideal For
- Wildlife observation
- Nature photography
- Families
- First Patagonia experience
- Travelers looking for low physical demand excursions
Important Information
The excursion has low physical demand and includes simple walks on marked trails on the island.
Operation depends on:
- weather conditions
- wind
- navigation conditions
- maritime authorizations
Recommended items:
- Warm layered clothing
- Waterproof or windproof jacket
- Comfortable shoes
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Hat and gloves
The navigation generally operates between October and March depending on penguin season.
Frequently Asked Questions
The excursion includes navigation, visit to Magdalena Island and free time to explore the penguin colony and marked trails.
The navigation departs from Punta Arenas.
The full experience lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours including navigation and island visit.
Penguin season generally operates between October and March.
Yes. The island has marked trails allowing visitors to observe penguins from very close while respecting conservation rules.
The physical demand is low and suitable for most travelers.
Warm clothing, waterproof jacket, comfortable shoes and protection against wind and rain are recommended.
Yes, although it may be modified or cancelled depending on weather conditions and maritime safety.
The island visit usually lasts approximately one hour.
Reviews
Included
-
Magdalena Island Barge Ticket
Round trip between Punta Arenas and Magdalena Island -
Expert advice and coordination
Personalized guidance and coordination of your experience via phone, email, webchat, WhatsApp, and scheduled video calls. -
Booking Fee – Reservation Management
Administrative costs associated with managing and confirming your reservation, including payment processing and coordinating services with local operators.
Not Included
-
Transfers to the mentioned starting and finishing points.
For questions, go to the How to Get There page in the Torres del Paine section on our site. - Medical, accident or travel insurance
General Conditions
Operation
- Season: From October 01 to March 31
- Only available from Thursday to Sunday
- Check in AM: 07:00 hrs. Departure 08:00 hrs
- Check in PM 13:30 hrs. Departure 14:30 hrs
- Return: 13:00 – 19:30
- Minimum of passengers: 2
- Children from 5 to 12 years old
Observations:
- Subject to weather conditions.
- The use of camera poles is prohibited on Magdalena Island, as this implement affects the penguins, especially when they are in the middle of their reproductive cycle.
Pricing
| Per Person | Price |
|---|---|
| Adulto (mayor de 12 años de edad) en Cabina Turista, Zarpe 08:00 AM | CL$ 100 000 |
| Niño (5 a 12 años) en Cabina Turista, Zarpe 08:00 AM | CL$ 60 000 |
| Adulto (mayor de 12 años de edad) en Cabina VIP con traslado desde su hotel en Punta Arenas, Zarpe 08:00 AM | CL$ 130 000 |
| Niño (5 a 12 años) en Cabina VIP con traslado desde su hotel en Punta Arenas, Zarpe 08:00 AM | CL$ 85 000 |
| Adulto (mayor de 12 años de edad) en Cabina Turista, Zarpe 14:30 | CL$ 100 000 |
| Niño (5 a 12 años) en Cabina Turista, Zarpe 14:30 | CL$ 60 000 |
| Adulto (mayor de 12 años de edad) en Cabina VIP con traslado desde su hotel en Punta Arenas, Zarpe 14:30 | CL$ 130 000 |
| Niño (5 a 12 años) en Cabina VIP con traslado desde su hotel en Punta Arenas, Zarpe 14:30 | CL$ 85 000 |
Commercial Conditions
Cancellation Policies
- Cancellations with 10 days or more before arrival: 90% refund.
- Cancellations with 9 days or less before arrival are not eligible for a refund.
Other Conditions
- Weather Conditions and Force Majeure Cancellations: The operator (service provider) reserves the right to cancel, modify, or reschedule services due to safety reasons, weather conditions, or other circumstances beyond its control. In the event of cancellation, the amount paid will be refunded less a 5% administrative reservation fee (booking fee), which is non-refundable.
- Excursion subject to schedule modification or cancellation due to weather and safety conditions for passengers.
- NO SHOW Delays and no show at the airport or Hotels or excursions are considered NO SHOW and the payment made by the program will not be fully or partially refunded.
Our apply on everything not mentioned before.
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Navigation to Magdalena Island Penguin Colony
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"Well organized and perfectly timed. Crew was knowledgeable, friendly and attentive. Lucky with the weather."