Why Martillo specifically

Most penguin colonies in Patagonia you observe from a boat or from a fenced viewing platform. On Martillo Island it's different: tourists walk on foot along a trail straight through the colony. Penguins aren't afraid of people and come right up to you.

This works because the island is closed to unauthorized vessels. Only licensed boats from Estancia Harberton have the right to land tourists.

Three species of penguins

Magellanic penguins — the most numerous. Recognizable by the black-and-white stripe across the chest. They live in burrows they dig themselves in the ground.

Gentoo penguins — slightly larger, with an orange beak and white patch on the head. The fastest swimmers among penguins.

King penguins — a rarity. Tall, bright, with orange patches on the neck. Not common, but an encounter with them is one of the most vivid experiences.

When's the best time to go see penguins on Martillo?

Penguins on Martillo Island from mid-October through early April — that's Patagonian summer. Peak numbers and activity — November–January: they're incubating eggs, chicks appear. In February–March the colony gradually thins out. From May through September the island is practically empty, there's no point going. Best window for photographing chicks — late December and first half of January.

We don't recommend planning for May–September: the island is practically empty.

Route and logistics

The day starts in Ushuaia around 9:00 AM. Drive east on Ruta 3 along the Beagle Channel — about 1.5 hours. Along the way we stop at Andris farm (berries, mushrooms, local cuisine) and a fishing village.

From Estancia Harberton to the island — 20 minutes by boat. On the island 30–40 minutes on foot among the penguins. Return to Ushuaia by 7:00 PM.

How much does the boat to Martillo Island cost?

  • Without landing — $140/person: the boat circles the island, you see penguins from on board
  • With landing — $250/person: you walk on foot among the colony

We recommend the landing option — that's exactly what you come to Martillo for.

Guide for the full day — $580 for a group up to 3 people. Boat is paid separately.

What to bring on the Martillo penguin excursion?

A warm jacket — it's cool by the water. Waterproof footwear — on the island you'll encounter puddles and wet areas. A camera with zoom — though penguins come right up to you, zoom will come in handy for chicks in burrows.