About 90 kilometers from Ushuaia lies Martillo Island, better known as "the penguin colony," the only one in Tierra del Fuego.
Between October and April, it's possible to see two species of penguins that come to spend their reproductive period on this island in the channel: the Magellanic penguin and the Gentoo penguin, albeit in smaller numbers. Occasionally, you may be surprised by King Penguins.
There are different excursions that take you to see this incredible place.
Some providers start the tour from the commercial pier, passing by some islands until reaching the penguin colony.
Others include the transfer to Puerto Almanza, and from there, the navigation begins. This tour, depending on the company you hire, can be done by sailboat or motorboat.
The last option includes the transfer to Estancia Harberton, from where the navigation starts, and a walk through the penguin colony.
Here are the companies that offer these excursions. Choose the one that best suits your needs.
From April to October, Onashaga Expeditions offers a navigation through the Beagle Channel, visiting the main islands. They visit Bird Island, Sea Lion Island, and the famous lighthouse Les Eclaireurs, and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the mountain range. This tour includes a hike around one of the islands.
Daily departures at 11:30 am and 2:00 pm. Duration 2h 30 aprox.
From october to march, Onashaga Expeditions offers the excursion to the penguin colony.
It starts with the transfer by bus from the city to Puerto Almanza. On the way, you will visit some recreational centers located in the valley. Once in Almanza, we board the boat and visit Lobos Island and Isla de los Pájaros, the Guarani Strait, and finally arrive at Martillo Island where the colony of Magellanic and Gentoo penguins is located.
The navigation lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, and in total, the excursion lasts 6 hours.
There is also the possibility of arriving at Puerto Almanza on your own and sailing from there. It is necessary to book in advance and consult the schedules.
Daily departures at 15 hs.