Penguin Walk: Navigation and observation of marine fauna on Martillo Island.
Discover Magellanic and Gentoo penguins in their natural habitat. A 7-hour trip through Harberton Ranch, a boat trip on the Beagle Channel, and a guided walk among the penguins on Martillo Island.
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Reserve your spot!
Spaces for this experience are limited and fill up quickly during peak season. Reservations are coordinated directly with our operations team through our inquiry channel. We will confirm availability and coordinate all the details to ensure you have an organized and safe experience.
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Itinerary
Penguin Walk Itinerary
From Ushuaia we head to Estancia Harberton, traveling through stunning landscapes along National Route 3 and Route J. A full day of nature and adventure.
Departure from Ushuaia
Arrival at Harberton Ranch
Navigation to Martillo Island
Walk among Penguins
Return to Harberton Ranch
Return to Ushuaia
Included in the TourHarberton Ranch — the oldest ranch in Tierra del Fuego
The tour departs for the estancia, founded in 1886, the first permanent non-indigenous settlement on the island. The historical context and the landscape of the Beagle Channel set the stage for a day unlike any other in Ushuaia.
Navigation in a semi-rigid boat to Martillo Island
A fifteen-minute boat ride across the Beagle Channel separates Harberton from the island. The channel's icy water and the southern horizon create an anticipation that the penguins ultimately confirm.
Walking among penguins — just meters away, without cages or fences
The one-hour guided walk among Magellanic and Gentoo penguins is one of the most immersive wildlife experiences in the world. The animals don't move—they are the ones who dominate the space.
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Information to keep in mind
A unique day with the southern fauna in its habitat. Everything you need:
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Tour Details
Duration
7 hoursDifficulty level
EasyAge
All ages -
Requirements
- Durable and non-slip footwear
- Waterproof jacket
- Dress in layers, wear a hat and thermal gloves
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
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Includes
- Bilingual guide
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Does not include
- Entrance to Harberton Ranch
- Boarding fee
- Food and drinks
- Transfer to the hotel
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Route Penguin Walk
«"I highly recommend packrafting on the Olivia River. It's a low-intensity activity, ideal to combine with other, more challenging excursions. Leo, our guide, was very friendly and easy to work with, and the group made it even better. The scenery is beautiful, the food was delicious, and I really had a great time."»
Experience a unique encounter with penguins. Book your tour to Isla Martillo and discover the magic of Tierra del Fuego's wildlife!
Reserve your spot!
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Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I get to Estancia Harberton if transportation is not included?
Harberton Ranch is located approximately 85 km from Ushuaia via Route 3 and Route J. You can arrive by car, rent a vehicle in town, or arrange a private transfer separately. When you book via WhatsApp, we will confirm the meeting point and the exact departure time of the boat from Harberton.
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Are there additional costs for admission to Harberton Ranch and the boarding fee?
Yes. The entrance fee to Estancia Harberton and the Isla Martillo ferry fee are paid separately on-site. Prices are updated each season—please check when booking for the current rate. It's important to bring cash, as there isn't always a payment terminal at Harberton.
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What time of year is the walk best, and when can you see the penguins most?
The season runs from October to March. Magellanic and Gentoo penguins are active on the island during these months, with nests, eggs, and chicks hatching depending on the time of year. The best months to see chicks are December and January. Outside of the season, the island is deserted and landings are not possible.
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Which experience to choose? Compare penguin and sailing options
They all sail the Beagle Channel — the difference is how close you get to the penguins
| Penguin Walk | Beagle Channel | Penguin Colony | Harberton + Isla Gable | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ⏱ Duration | 7 hours | 3.5 hours | 5 hours | 10 am |
| 🐧 Contact with penguins | Walk between the colonies | Does not include | Catamaran sightseeing | Walk between the colonies |
| 🏝 Island landing | Yes — Hammer Island | No | No | Yes — Hammer Island |
| 📊 Difficulty |
Easy |
Minimum |
Minimum |
Easy |
| 👤 Age | All ages | All ages | All ages | All ages |
| 🎯 Ideal profile | Walking among penguins, direct contact | See the canal and the lighthouse, short excursion | See penguins without leaving the boat | History + wildlife + gastronomy, all included |
| ✅ Includes | Harberton + semi-rigid boat + 1-hour walk among penguins | Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse + Lobos Island + seabirds | Martillo Island (from boat) + Lighthouse + Lobos Island | Harberton + Gable Island + Hammer Island + lunch |
| 📅 Penguin season | October to March | All year | October to March | October to March |
Which one suits you best?
Penguin Walk
5.0
from
Reserve your spot!
Spaces for this experience are limited and fill up quickly during peak season. Reservations are coordinated directly with our operations team through our inquiry channel. We will confirm availability and coordinate all the details to ensure you have an organized and safe experience.
Your reservation has been added to the cart
Your reservation has been added to the cart. To confirm your booking, you must complete the purchase within the next 24 hours.
Penguin Walk
Observe Magellanic and Gentoo penguins in their natural habitat during a unique sailing trip through the Beagle Channel and Martillo Island.



