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Fauna and nature reserve · Punta Arenas, Magalhães e Antártica Chilena
Monumento Natural Los Pingüinos
Ilhas Magdalena e Marta, in the Estreito de Magalhães, where Magellanic penguins breed and sea lions live. Boat visits from Punta Arenas during the season.
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 Los Pingüinos
The Monumento Natural Los Pingüinos comprises two islands in the Estreito de Magalhães, northeast of Punta Arenas: Isla Magdalena, with 85 hectares, and the small Isla Marta. Created as a national park in 1966 and reclassified as a natural monument in 1982, the area is administered by CONAF and protects a breeding colony of the Magellanic penguin.
On Isla Magdalena, a marked path rises from the landing to the lighthouse, inaugurated in 1901, passing among burrows where the penguins incubate eggs and raise chicks. Gulls, cormorants and skuas share the space with them. Visiting rules may change to protect the colony.
On Isla Marta there is a colony of sea lions observed from the boat, with no landing. On some crossings dolphins appear alongside the vessel.
The visiting season usually runs from October or November to March, when the penguins are on the islands. Outside that period the colony disperses at sea and boats do not operate.
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
Between four and six hours of excursion, with about one hour ashore on Isla Magdalena.
Best time
December and January usually have chicks in the burrows. In February and March the young begin to head to sea. Departures depend on strait conditions and can be canceled because of wind.
How to get there
Boats depart from the port of Punta Arenas or nearby piers and take about two hours to reach Isla Magdalena. Visits are only carried out with authorized operators; book in advance.
Tip
Wear waterproof clothing, a hat and gloves: in the strait the wind is cold even in summer. On the island, always stay within the marked path and give way to penguins crossing the trail.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Monumento Natural Los Pingüinos
In which months can you see the penguins on Isla Magdalena?
The season usually runs from October or November to March. Confirm the season dates before booking, as they change every year.
How long does the trip to Isla Magdalena last?
Between four and six hours, including about two hours by boat each way and time on land.
Can you land on Isla Marta?
No. The sea lions of Isla Marta are observed from the boat.