Isla Martillo Penguin Colony
Isla Martillo
A penguin island in the Beagle Channel where thousands of Magellanic and gentoo penguins breed, one of the few places in South America where you can land and see penguins up close.
Isla Martillo lies about 80 km east of Ushuaia and belongs to Estancia Harberton. In summer, over a thousand pairs of Magellanic and gentoo penguins nest on the island, and emperor and king penguins occasionally appear. Landing is only possible on licensed tours, with very few places each day, so during peak season book one or two months ahead. Visitors must follow the designated trail, and the landing takes about 1 hour. If landing spots are full, you can choose a full-day boat tour that circles the island instead. The sea is windy, so bring a windproof jacket and motion-sickness medicine.
Opening hours
Approx. Oct–Apr, per boat schedule
Nearby sights
- Estancia Harberton
- Puerto Almanza
- Lago Fagnano
- Lago Escondido
- Cerro Castor Ski Resort
- Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse
- Tierra Mayor Valley
- Beagle Channel