Magdalena Island Penguin Tour by Boat from Punta Arenas
Punta Arenas, Chile
- 5 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Enjoy a bucket-list-worthy experience when you discover a Chilean penguin colony—an experience most visitors miss—on this half-day boat tour. Departing from Punta Arenas, travel by boat to Magdalena Island, home to thousands of wild penguins. Cruise past rugged Patagonian scenery en route to the protected nature reserve, and enjoy up-close views of the resident wildlife.
- Enjoy spectacular views of Chile's Patagonian scenery you won't get elsewhere
- Learn all about the penguin colony from your expert guide
- Book ahead of time to avoid missing a much sought-after experience
- Snacks are provided along the way to keep hunger at bay
What's Included
- Boat tour
- Professional guide
- Transfer from the meeting point to the pier
- Transport by air-conditioned minivan
- Snacks
- Gratuities
- Food and drinks, unless specified
- Airport pickup and drop-off
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
- José Nogueira 1255, 6201110 Punta Arenas, Magallanes y la Antártica Chilena, Chile
Your incredible experience will begin directly at the meeting point, located in Jose Nogueira #1255, Punta Arenas, at the office of the local provider. Remember that you have to be at 06:30am at the meeting point.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.Operating hours.6:30 am
Itinerary
After pickup from the meeting point in Punta Arenas, ride in an air-conditioned minivan to the pier. Hop aboard your vessel, and head towards the Strait of Magellan. Observe the water for the protruding fins of wild dolphins—then, arrive at the small and serene Magdalena Island.
Also known as Los Pinguinos Natural Park, the protected reserve has been a breeding site of Magellanic penguins since 1982. Watch thousands of penguins crowding the shore, all in their unspoiled natural habitat.
Disembark and follow your guide down a cordoned-off trail that meanders around the island. Observe hundreds of penguin burrows and gain insights into the behavior of the birds.
Refresh and revitalize with warming coffee and sweet biscuits before boarding your boat for the shore back to the mainland. If you're lucky, capture photographs of sea lions and elephant seals lounging on the shores before returning to Punta Arenas' main square, where the tour concludes.
Also known as Los Pinguinos Natural Park, the protected reserve has been a breeding site of Magellanic penguins since 1982. Watch thousands of penguins crowding the shore, all in their unspoiled natural habitat.
Disembark and follow your guide down a cordoned-off trail that meanders around the island. Observe hundreds of penguin burrows and gain insights into the behavior of the birds.
Refresh and revitalize with warming coffee and sweet biscuits before boarding your boat for the shore back to the mainland. If you're lucky, capture photographs of sea lions and elephant seals lounging on the shores before returning to Punta Arenas' main square, where the tour concludes.
José Nogueira 1255 (Pass By)
1
Isla Magdalena
2 hours • Admission Ticket Included
2
Isla Marta
1 hour • Admission Ticket Included
Punta Arenas (Pass By)
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Infants must sit on laps
- Most travelers can participate
- It is recommended that you wear comfortable, warm clothes and trekking shoes or boots
- Please bring a jacket or sweater, a scarf, hat, sunglasses and water
- Important: Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
- Seasonal product operating October to March
- IMPORTANT INFORMATION: On peak season (Christmas, Holidays, Cruise dates, November to March) the departure time of your tour is at 06:30 am, In case that we don't have more availability, we will be letting you know if we have to reschedule your departure time due availability.
- In case that you are a cruise passenger, once you booked the tour, please contact us to confirm departure availability at 10:00 am.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 66 travelers
Supplied by
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 2 days in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
Rebecca_A
Fantastic trip, brilliant service and really knowledgeable guide. Boat staff were incredibly helpful. Penquins, sea lions, birds, dolphins and whales- brilliant time. Can highly recommend
Reviews
4.2
based on 111 reviews
Rebecca_A, Mar 2026
Fantastic trip, brilliant service and really knowledgeable guide. Boat staff were incredibly helpful. Penquins, sea lions, birds, dolphins and whales- brilliant time. Can highly recommend
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you very much for your wonderful review. We are happy to hear you had a fantastic trip and enjoyed the service, the guide, and the boat crew. It’s great to know you were able to see penguins, sea lions, birds, dolphins and even whales — truly a special experience. Thank you for your recommendation.
debjrooney0120, Mar 2026
We are on a Holland America cruise but this trip was not available from the ship tour offers. Booked thru aviator but run thru Solo Expeditions in Punta Arenas. They were aware of our time in port and easily got us back to the ship in time.
Checking process was chaotic- they wouldn’t check k anyone in until start time of tour and then it was a bit unorganized. Once that was figured out, we were on buses and on our way to the boat that took us out to the island. Weather was perfect. Team on the boat were wonderful - took good care of us. Walk thru the island was wonderful - penguins were ready to show up for us! On the ride back we stopped to see the sea lions.
Worth the trip, be patient with the check in process…
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you for your review. We are glad to hear you enjoyed the excursion and that everything worked well with your cruise schedule. We appreciate your comments about the check-in process and will work on improving the organization to make the start of the tour smoother. Thank you for your patience, and we are happy you had a great experience with the penguins and sea lions.
JEFFERY_B, Feb 2026
Amazing guide, very knowledgeable and spoke English very well. Tons of penguins out and about. Also, had the chance to see the sea lions on Marta Island.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Thank you very much for your wonderful feedback!
We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed the experience and that our guide made the tour even more memorable. Seeing the penguins in their natural habitat is always something special, and we’re glad you also had the opportunity to observe the sea lions on Marta Island.
We truly appreciate you sharing your experience.
Jaimeson_R, Jan 2026
The best tour operator in the area, quality busses and boats, a great team of staff, and a great excursion! We repeat this one every visit down here!
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thank you so much for your kind words and continued trust in us!
We’re delighted to hear that you enjoy the quality of our buses and boats, as well as the dedication of our team. It truly means a lot to know this excursion is one you choose to repeat on every visit. We look forward to welcoming you again very soon!
Gobinda_S, Jan 2026
Wow!!! this is one of the best tours that we had where we were able to encounter nature and animal so up close. We walked along with Penguins in wild. That is magical. We saw them walking to ocean, bringing fishes for their cubs. It was so much fun.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thank you so much for your wonderful review!
We’re thrilled to hear that this was one of the best tours you experienced and that you were able to encounter nature and wildlife so closely. Walking alongside penguins in their natural habitat and witnessing such special moments is truly magical. We’re glad you had so much fun and created unforgettable memories. We hope to welcome you again soon!
Divya_J, Jan 2026
Sea sickness is real And can hit anyone in different ways. Please carry sea sickness medicine if possible. Lot of people on the boat got sick because the water was very choppy.
The island itself was amazing, we saw lots of sea lions, penguins and different birds. Our guide kept us honest with rules and how to not approach penguins.
They had lot of different teas, trash bags and tissues.
The crew kept an eye on everyone for sea sickness. This was very helpful.
They also took us out of the catamaran to watch the sea lions.
Overall a fun day and definitely worth spending time.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thank you for your review!
We appreciate your comments about the sea conditions and recommend guests bring seasickness medication, as conditions can vary.
We’re glad to hear the crew was attentive and supportive, and that you enjoyed the island, wildlife, and guidance provided during the tour. We’re happy to know you had a fun and worthwhile experience.
Micki_B, Jan 2026
No one owns this activity until you get on the boat. When you check in you get no instructions on how to move forward. You just hope you’re getting on the right bus. There is no guide until you’re on the boat.
The island visit was great. Lots of penguins and seagulls with cute fluffy chicks.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thank you for your feedback. We apologize for the lack of clear instructions during check-in and boarding, and we appreciate you bringing this to our attention.
We’re glad to hear you enjoyed the island visit and seeing the penguins and seagulls. Your comments help us improve our service.
Jeff_L, Jan 2026
Overall, good experience. Staff on boat was great. Very informative and knowledgeable. Tour was on schedule. The only problem I had was that we were a group of 6. We booked the excursion as 3 couples at the same time. When we arrived at the office, we were informed that we were going to be split up in 2 different buses which meant that we would be on 2 different boats. We explained our situation but was told that under no circumstances would they accommodate us. I’m sure that it might have been a small inconvenience but I think that adjustments could have been made so the 6 of us who are traveling together could enjoy this excursion together. Sometimes it’s the little things.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thank you for your feedback. We’re glad to hear you enjoyed the tour overall and that the boat staff was informative, knowledgeable, and on schedule.
We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience of your group being split. We understand how important it is to share the experience together, and we regret that we were unable to accommodate your request due to operational constraints. Your comments have been shared with our team for review.
Thank you again for sharing your experience.
Misti_C, Dec 2025
Our first navigation was canceled which we anticipated reading reviews so we were able to rebook for next day and glad we did! The tour was amazing! The host was incredible and so funny.
Response from Host, Dec 2025
Thank you for sharing your experience! 😊
We appreciate your understanding regarding the initial cancellation and are so glad you were able to rebook for the next day. It’s great to hear that the tour exceeded your expectations and that the host made it such a fun and memorable experience. We hope to welcome you again soon!
Angela_N, Dec 2025
The walk to the office brings you to an expeditions office. No announcements were made, no check in procedure. We followed each other to get on a coach, no one knew what was happening the coach went at snails pace, no guide or explanation. When we reached the boat we sat in the coach for a further 20 mins. No one to tell us anything.
However once on the boat Rodrigo was very good full of knowledge and led us to the penguin trail. We also sat on top of the boat roof to take pics of sealions. A wonderful trip but what the agency did regarding information was zero.
Response from Host, Dec 2025
Thank you for taking the time to share your detailed feedback. We sincerely apologize for the lack of communication and organization at the beginning of the tour, as this is certainly not the experience we aim to provide. Your comments regarding the check-in process, transportation, and absence of information have been noted and will be reviewed with our operations team to improve coordination and communication.
We are very pleased to hear that once on board, Rodrigo provided an excellent experience with his knowledge and guidance, and that you were able to fully enjoy the penguin trail and the opportunity to photograph the sea lions. We truly appreciate your honest feedback, as it helps us improve.
John_P, Oct 2025
Prepare for a cold/wet weather. And most of all do not forget your sunglasses. you are going to love this tour. Seeing penguins up close is absolutely amazing.
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Thank you so much for your wonderful review and for sharing such helpful tips! We’re so glad you loved the tour and the incredible experience of seeing the penguins up close. We hope to see you again for another adventure soon!
Stacie_D, Mar 2025
Amazing penguin viewing. Great trip out to the island. Had to skip the second island and cut things short for weather, but so glad we went anyway. Memorable trip! Get the hot chocolate and drink it BEFORE the boat starts moving again!
Cedric_B, Feb 2025
Waters can be extremely rough, expect lots of wind. Path on island is rocky, uneven and steep. Not for people with wheel chairs or walkers. Rodrigo, our guide, was very friendly, helpful, knowledgeable and his English was very good
Bonnie_M, Jan 2025
Everything about this experience was top notch. We were transported in a bus to the boat site. . We got on the boat and had a pleasant ride out to the island. The hour and 1/2 was plenary to make the hike around the penguin area and up to the historic lighthouse. The penguins are very close and there are plenty of them. The sounds and sights of them and the other nesting birds on the island was great. After that we were able to go see the Sea Lions at the other island. Here you are able to go up on top of the boat to view the animals while stationed next to the island. They gave us adequate time to take pictures and then we went back inside for the ride home. Everything was as promised in the description.
Robert_S, Jan 2025
Good excursion on Magdelena Island. Plenty of time for pics. Marta island is really a bust as you are too far from the island to get an idea of the size of the sea lions. Plus between the boat rocking, and everyone jockeying for position, pics are dismal. Strongly suggest you ask people to stay in their first seat throughout the boat excursion. I don't want to fight for my place to sit everytime on the boat....some people lack basic courtesy.
james_c, Dec 2024
This is an amazing experience. To see sealines from a boat close to shore, and walk with the penguins is definately worth doing.
janardhan_c, Dec 2024
Sebastian was a fantastic guide and the tour was well managed. the crew paid a lot of attention to safety.
Jaime_L, Dec 2024
It was a wonderful learning experience. Rodrigo shared his knowledge of Isla Magdalena and Magellanic penguins. The weather cooperated with no windy conditions and a smooth navigation to the island.
cesdls4, Dec 2024
Originally booked at 6:30 AM, as we know the early tours reduce the risk of rain and wind and increase the ability to see both islands. we were switched to 10 AM 3 1/2 hours, as only option, later as a cruise ship came in and took the choice times. 45 minutes late we were finally loaded to the bus and then had to wait another 20 minutes as they unloaded previous passengers off a different type boat so no catamaran, even though it was sitting there at dock. People crammed into smaller boat and only allowed to go one hour on Magellan Island to see the penguins. Never made it to the second island which we later found out the boat just went around it so there is no admission or getting off the boat at that site - of Marta Island. That is where the sea lions are. So, unorganized, not as advertised, and no one was happy. We requested partial refund, and told to talk with Viator- No one was happy with this Grayline tour.
NarcisaMaria_D, Dec 2024
Only got to visit Magdalena Island but not Marta island. Communication was very poor.
Was a bit disappointing!
Aparna_B, Nov 2024
Where else can you get to see a penguin habitat in the world? That’s what makes this trip unique. The penguins are really cute
Alexis_M, Oct 2024
Great time with penguins. Puked on the way back. Sebastian and crew were kind & good hosts. Recommend, but take some Dramamine for the ride.
Sergii_L, Apr 2024
Penguin are ok, tour operator is MUST AVOID ON ALL COSTS!
First of all they changed our tour time last minute and stated that because of the weather. All our future plans was broken because of that. What was the surprise when we find out that there was actually a tour on time we booked, so this tour operator just decided to move our time for their needs and lie to us
Organization is awful - you will constantly wait for something and loose your time because of their disorganization
At the end they stoped responding to our messages and refused to refund our tour.
Moreover we found out that tour is OVERPRICED and Viator refused to pay the difference with their "Lowest price guarantee" program even when I gave them all the details and proofs of lower price on other website.
So dont book this tour unless you want to be scammed and do not book high priced tours via Viator because they will not help you with refund if anything is wrong and their Lowest price guarantee program do not work at all
George_B, Mar 2024
Great sunrise and both islands were very interesting. The penguins and the seals were impeccably behaved.
Boat crew was great. The tour guide was excellent with a mix of good information and humour.
mary_C, Feb 2024
While the ticking off of individuals, most had paid but some had reservations only then had to negotiate currency and form of payment, by one person with a pen and multipage list inside the office before boarding 3 busses took way longer than expected, the trip was totally worth it! The guide was excellent: extremely knowledgeable and did not just rattle off some memorized script but instead tailored descriptions to what was available and questions of passengers, in both English and Spanish. The boat crew was considerate, helpful and good humored. The island is fascinating and the nesting penguins and gulls did not disappoint- the penguin parents and their young were fun and fascinating. The walk is gentle and the view fantastic. An abrupt change in weather made for a rough return but my pressure wristbands warded off sea sickness. I have great pictures and wonderful memories and highly recommend.
Daniel_M, Jan 2024
This is a must if visiting Punta Arenas. We found everything well organized and clear. Our drivers and guides were excellent and we found the pace and amount of time for each stop was appropriate. The scenery is amazing - we had great weather - and the penguins are super cute and entertaining.
Georgy_C, Dec 2023
I highly recommend this tour. We were really lucky with the weather. We could see sea whales and dolphins from the deck of the boat on our way to Magdalena island. Penguins are absolutely incredible. You can watch them very close. We also saw sea lions on the island of St Martha. It was an incredible experience that i highly recommend.
david_z, Mar 2020
Interesting trip. saw lots of penguins close-up on the short island walk. Watched sea lions on shore from the boat for about 15 minutes, also interesting. Our seating area was somewhat cramped but tolerable. We heard some people on the trip paid about $40.00 less per person than we did. Not sure how we could have gotten that price. Overall, worth doing.
Carrie_F, Mar 2020
Tour itself was great. Our guide Sebastian and driver Placido were knowledgeable and helpful. Tourboat crew were also excellent. We saw sea lions, cormorants at Isla Marta and lots of Magellanic penguins on Isla Magdalena.
Our problems were prior to beginning the tour. We were on a cruise ship that arrived in port at 6:15 am. No taxis, Ubers or other vehicles were available to get us from the ship to the tour office and starting point (8 kms) away. We managed to flag down a nice person who drove us in. We tried to phone all the telephone numbers that were provided by both Viator and the local company but there was no answer at either number. This is very poor customer service and problematic. We could have easily missed the entire tour. Proper contact information should be provided and possibly more information if customers are arriving on a cruise ship.
RVerginia, Feb 2020
Fantastic! The boat ride was excellent and being among the Magellana Penguins was GREAT! The excursion was as described.
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