La Serena: Damas Island, Penguins, and Marine Wildlife

Elqui Province, Chile



Sail from Punta de Choros to see Humboldt penguins and marine life on Choros Island and to explore Damas Island. Enjoy a typical lunch on the coast of Coquimbo.

Highlights

  • See Humboldt penguins in their natural habitat
  • Cruise around Choros Island and Damas Island in the National Reserve
  • Discover sea lions, South American sea otters, pelicans, and other birds

Description

Discover the marine biodiversity of the coast of the Coquimbo Region on a sailing experience to Choros Island and Damas Island, two highlights of the Humboldt Penguin National Reserve.

The tour begins with a trip to the village of Punta de Choros, where you'll board a boat to explore the waters of this protected area. The boat trip will take you close to Choros Island, home to a large population of Humboldt penguins.

During the tour, you'll be able to observe these birds in their natural habitat and discover the diversity of species that inhabit the reserve. Depending on the conditions, you may also spot cormorants, pelicans, boobies, sea lions, and chungungos, or marine otters.

The area also offers the possibility of spotting bottlenose dolphins, a species typical of the South Pacific. During whale season, there is also the possibility of spotting these magnificent cetaceans from the boat.

The cruise continues to Damas Island, where you can enjoy the coastal scenery and its intensely colored waters. Depending on conditions and permission to disembark, you'll be able to walk some of its trails, relax on the beach, and take photos. When disembarking is not possible, the island is explored from the boat.

Back on the mainland, enjoy lunch at a typical local restaurant and sample some of the local cuisine.

This experience combines sailing, nature, and marine wildlife watching in one of Chile's most important coastal ecosystems, offering the opportunity to discover the Humboldt penguin and other species in their natural habitat.

Includes

  • Round-trip transportation from La Serena
  • Bilingual guide during the sightseeing tour
  • Lunch at a local restaurant
  • Shared boat trip ticket
  • Navigation in Spanish

Excludes

  • Drinks or meals not specified
  • Tips
  • Unspecified extras
  • Insurance

Important Information

  • No previous experience is required to do this activity. The boat trip is subject to weather conditions, wind, and swells. This activity is not recommended on the last day of the trip. There is no disembarkation on Choros Island; the wildlife is observed from the boat. Landing on Damas Island is subject to the conditions and authorization on the day. During the winter season, the amount of wildlife that can be observed may be lower due to nesting and migration periods. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. Dietary restrictions must be communicated in advance.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Frequently Asked Questions

You can see Humboldt penguins, sea lions, South American sea otters, pelicans, and various other marine birds in the National Reserve.
The tour departs from the village of Punta de Choros on the coast of Chile's Coquimbo Region.
Duration varies by operator, so check the tour provider's website for specific cruise lengths.
Yes, the tour offers the opportunity to see Humboldt penguins living naturally within the Humboldt Penguin National Reserve.
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, but it is advisable to check specific age recommendations with the tour operator.
Bring sun protection, water, comfortable clothing, and a camera to capture marine wildlife sightings.
Penguins and marine wildlife can be seen year-round, but check local conditions and seasonal wildlife activity before booking.
No prior sailing experience is needed as the tour is guided by experienced staff familiar with the reserve's waters.
Meal and refreshment inclusion varies; verify details with the tour provider before booking.
Tours can be booked through local tour operators and online platforms offering trips to Punta de Choros and the National Reserve.

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