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Wildlife observation · Ancud, Los Lagos
Monumento Natural Islotes de Puñihuil
Three islets on the northwest coast of Chiloé where Humboldt and Magellanic penguins nest. Community boats depart from Puñihuil beach and circle the islands.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Monumento Natural Islotes de Puñihuil
The Islotes de Puñihuil are three small rocky islets off the caleta de Puñihuil, on the northwest coast of the Isla Grande, about 26 km from Ancud. The area was designated a Natural Monument in 1999 and is managed by CONAF.
Two penguin species nest there, the Humboldt and the Magellanic, which makes Puñihuil one of the few places in the world where both share the same colony. The penguin season usually runs from September to March. On the rocks and in the water you can also see the chungungo, the small marine otter, cormorants, gulls and the caiquén.
Visits are made by boat. Locals from the caleta organize outings of around 30 minutes that circle the islets without landing, at a distance that protects the birds. Boats depart from the beach and return to the same point.
In the caleta there are simple fishermen's restaurants, a short trail and viewpoints maintained by CONAF. Offshore, researchers monitor the large whales that feed in these waters part of the year.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
The boat trip lasts about 30 minutes. With the trip from Ancud and a meal at the caleta, allow half a day.
Best time
From September to March, during the penguin season. In the morning the sea is usually calmer; with strong waves the boats do not go out.
How to get there
From Ancud, follow Ruta W-20 toward Pumillahue and, at the indicated junction, turn west to Puñihuil beach, about 3 km ahead. The whole route is about 26 km. There are agencies in Ancud that run the trip with transport.
Tip
Bring a waterproof jacket: it is windy on the boat and cold water splashes. Do not use a drone without CONAF authorization and keep quiet near the islets.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Monumento Natural Islotes de Puñihuil
When can you see penguins in Puñihuil?
The season usually runs from September to March, when the colonies are on the islets. Check before you go, because the boats depend on sea conditions.
Can you land on the islands?
No. Boats circle the islets at a safe distance for the birds, without landing.
Which penguins live in Puñihuil?
The Humboldt penguin and the Magellanic penguin, which nest side by side on the same islets.
How long does the boat trip last?
About 30 minutes, with frequent departures throughout the day when sea conditions allow.