Walk with Penguins on Magdalena and Marta Islands in Punta Arenas

Are you looking for a unique adventure during your stay in Punta Arenas, Chile? If so, walking with penguins on Magdalena and Marta Islands is the perfect activity for you. These two majestic islands offer a great opportunity to get up close to Magellanic Penguins in their natural environment. In this guide, we will discuss everything that you need to know about this exciting activity – from the types of penguins and their habitats to the best time of year to visit and useful tips to keep in mind while trekking with these birds.

About Magdalena & Marta Island

Magdalena and Marta Islands are located off of the southern coast of Chile in the Strait of Magellan. Magdalena Island is the larger of the two, stretching 8.2 miles in length and 1.2 miles in width, while Marta Island is just 1.1 miles in diameter. Together, the two islands make up the world’s largest Magellanic penguin colony, with an estimated two million breeding pairs.

The terrain on both islands is fairly similar, consisting of gravel beaches and rocky shores. The surrounding waters are lush with clams, which are the primary food source for Magellanic Penguins. The islands are part of a protected nature reserve, and most areas remain closed to visitors for conservation purposes.

The Magellanic Penguin

Magellanic Penguins are one of the 18 different species of penguins that can be seen around the world. They are medium-sized birds, growing up to 28 inches in length and weighing up to 8 pounds. Thanks to their characteristic black and white patterning, they have become one of the most recognizable species of penguins.

Magellanic Penguins are widely distributed around South America, with the majority of them residing in colonies along the southern coast of Chile and Argentina. During the breeding season – which stretches from October to March – millions of birds migrate to Patagonia, where they dig burrows into sand or rocky soil and lay their eggs. Once the eggs hatch, chicks remain in the burrows for up to two months before venturing out into open water.

When to Go & What to Bring

The best time to observe penguins on Magdalena and Marta Islands is between December and January. This is the peak season for migratory birds, which means that there will be more activity on the island. You should also make sure to bring along your passport, since you’ll need it in order to board the ferry that takes you out to the islands. In addition, make sure you have a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, bug spray, and plenty of water to keep you hydrated throughout the day. Also be sure to bring along comfortable shoes, since you’ll be doing lots of walking throughout the beaches and rocky terrain.

Tours & Guides

The best way to experience Magdalena and Marta Islands is by taking a guided tour. Not only will a guide provide you with insight into the history and culture of these two wonderful places, but they will also be able to show you the best spots for spotting penguins in the area. There are many tour operators in Punta Arenas that offer a variety of different packages that cater to all kinds of interests and budgets.

Punta Arenas Shore Excursion & Cruise Tour

One of the best tours available is Punta Arenas Shore Excursion & Cruise Tour. During this 10-hour tour, guests will have the chance to explore both islands while observing hundreds of Magellanic Penguins as they go about their daily activities. The tour also includes complimentary lunch and snacks, as well as round-trip transportation from Punta Arenas.<

Magdalena & Marta Islands Private Day Trip

If you’re looking for a more personalized experience, then check out Magdalena & Marta Islands Private Day Trip from Punta Arenas. On this seven-hour tour, guests will be accompanied by an experienced local guide who will teach them about the wildlife and geography of these two islands. Guests can also choose the duration and difficulty level of their trekking route depending on their individual interests and preferences. You can book this tour through GetYourGuide.

Other Tour Options

If these two tours don’t fit your needs, there are several other tour operators offering packages to Magdalena & Marta Islands. Be sure to compare different options before booking a tour, as prices can range significantly depending on the length and type of tour offered.

Tips for Trekking with Penguins

When embarking on your journey to Magdalena & Marta Islands, there are a few tips that you should keep in mind in order to ensure that your trekking experience is safe, enjoyable, and respectful:

• Remember that these are wild animals – keep a safe distance from all wildlife during your visit.
• Avoid getting too close to penguin burrows, since it can disturb nests.
• Be sure to leave no trace – pack out anything that you bring in with you.
• Do not feed or attempt to touch any penguins during your visit.
• Stay on designated trails at all times.

Following these simple guidelines will ensure that your visit to Magdalena & Marta Islands is a safe and enjoyable one. Now that you know everything that you need to know about walking with penguins on these two breathtaking islands, it’s time to get out there and start exploring! To make sure that your trekking experience goes as smoothly as possible, book an organized tour today, so that you can get up close to these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat without having to worry about logistical details or safety concerns. Enjoy your adventure!