Punta Arenas: Walk with Penguins on Magdalena & Marta Island

Magallanes Province, Chile



Sail through the Strait of Magellan to Magdalena and Marta Islands and observe abundant marine life. Marvel at the Magellanic penguins on Magdalena Island.

Magellanic Penguin and Patagonian Sea Lion Island Tour in the Strait of Magellan

This guided tour from Laredo Bay explores Magdalena and Marta Islands, ideal for wildlife enthusiasts interested in penguins, sea lions, and marine birds.

Highlights

  • Cruise to Magdalena and Marta Islands through the Strait of Magellan
  • Visit a colony of over 60,000 Magellanic penguins on Magdalena Island
  • Observe more than 1,000 Patagonian sea lions on Marta Island
  • Spot additional wildlife such as cormorants, skuas, dolphins, and occasional sei whales

Description

After check-in, transfer to Laredo Bay port to board speedboats for a 45-minute ride to Magdalena Island. Spend one hour with a bilingual guide exploring the habitat of the Magellanic penguins, the second largest colony in South America with over 120,000 penguins annually.

Weather permitting, continue to Marta Island to see the Patagonian sea lion colony and abundant birdlife including cormorants, skuas, austral seagulls, and Antarctic pigeons. Keep a lookout for southern dolphins, piebald dolphins, and sei whales during the trip.

The tour concludes with a return to Laredo Bay port and transfer back to the original meeting point.

Includes

  • Navigation to Magdalena and Marta Islands
  • Coffee service
  • Bilingual guide
  • Entrance fee to Penguin Island

Excludes

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Food
  • Gratuities

Important Information

  • Not recommended for people with limited mobility
  • Tour is subject to weather conditions
  • Please arrive at the meeting point 10 minutes before the start time

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, bring weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can see over 60,000 Magellanic penguins on Magdalena Island and more than 1,000 Patagonian sea lions on Marta Island, along with cormorants and possibly dolphins.
The tour departs from Laredo Bay port near Punta Arenas in southern Chile.
Tour duration varies; please check the website for current schedules and timing details.
Yes, you can walk near the colony of Magellanic penguins on Magdalena Island during the tour.
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for children interested in wildlife and nature.
The best time is during the southern hemisphere summer months, from November to March.
No special equipment is required, but it’s recommended to bring warm clothing and waterproof layers due to variable weather.
Restroom facilities are available on the boat departing from Punta Arenas.
There is a possibility of spotting dolphins along the cruise route in the Strait of Magellan.
The meeting point is in Punta Arenas city, with transfers provided to Laredo Bay where the boat departs.

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