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Activity Ushuaia, Argentina

Discover penguins on Martillo Island in the Beagle Channel & more

4.8 (13 reviews) 5 h 30 min Free cancellation
Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Discover penguins on Martillo Island in the Beagle Channel & more

About this activity

Get ready to live one of the most unforgettable adventures at the End of the World.

The Beagle Channel awaits you with landscapes that look like they belong to another planet: snow-covered mountains, crystal-clear waters, and that pure southern air you can only feel in Ushuaia. The journey begins toward Bird Island, where hundreds of cormorants and seagulls greet you from the sky. We continue to Alicia Island to meet the two-furred sea lions, and then to the iconic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse —yes, the one from all the photos!

But the most magical moment comes at Martillo Island : Magellanic and Gentoo penguins walking freely by the sea, curious and calm. Seeing them up close is something you don’t explain —you feel it.

It’s an experience made for those who love nature, photos that tell stories, and journeys that truly move you.

Join the adventure!

Book your spot and discover why Ushuaia is not just a destination —it’s a dream come true.

Half-day Tours Private and Luxury Catamaran Cruises Water Tours Adventure Tours Involves Animals Top Product Low Supplier Cancellation Rate

At a glance

Duration
5 h 30 min
Confirmation
Instant confirmation
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group
Up to 65 people
People per booking
1–30
Guide
English, Spanish
Operated by
Ni Lo Pienses Tour

Ages: Infants (0–2 years) · Children (3–11 years) · Adults (12–99 years)

What is included

Included

  • Included: Bilingual guide (Spanish-English)
  • Included: All Fees and Taxes
  • Included: Insurance

Not included

  • Not included: Food and beverages
  • Not included: Descent to Penguin Island
  • Not included: Transportation from the hotel to the port

Itinerary

  1. Canal Beagle

    3 hours Admission included

    This narrow stretch of sea, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and Patagonian forests, connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific. Sailing through its waters means discovering colonies of sea lions, penguins, southern birds, and the iconic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, in a natural environment of untamed beauty that marks the true “End of the World.”

  2. Isla de Los Pajaros

    40 min Admission included

    Bird Island, also known as Casco Island, is one of the most iconic natural sanctuaries in the Beagle Channel. Majestic imperial cormorants nest on its rocks and cliffs, their colonies bringing the landscape to life with their unmistakable black and white plumage. While sailing, it is also possible to spot giant petrels, black-browed albatrosses, skuas, and seagulls, making this corner of the end of the world a true paradise for bird lovers and photographers.

  3. Faro Les Eclaireurs

    40 min Admission included

    Located on a small rocky archipelago in the Beagle Channel, just 5 nautical miles from Ushuaia, Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse is one of the most photographed landmarks in Tierra del Fuego. Its name means ‘The Explorers’ in French, and it was inaugurated in 1920. It is still in operation today, fully automated.

  4. Martillo Island

    40 min Admission included

    Martillo Island, popularly known as the “Penguin Island,” is a vital natural enclave located in the majestic Beagle Channel in Tierra del Fuego. This small southern territory is world-famous for being home to one of the most important colonies of Magellanic penguins in the region.

    Every year, between October and April, thousands of these migratory birds choose Martillo Island for their breeding and nesting cycle. The island is not only home to the Magellanic penguin, but also serves as a viewing point for the elegant Gentoo penguin, making it a key destination for conservation and wildlife experiences in the southernmost tip of the continent.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

  • Please arrive at the meeting point 30 minutes before departure to check in. If you have any questions, please contact us. The meeting point will be at the Tourist Pier. Staff from our agency will be there waiting for you to start the tour. They will be identified with the name of the incoming agency

End point

  • Please arrive at the meeting point 30 minutes before departure to check in. If you have any questions, please contact us. The meeting point will be at the Tourist Pier. Staff from our agency will be there waiting for you to start the tour. They will be identified with the name of the incoming agency

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel You get back
At least one day before 100%
Less than a day before 0%
  • The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

  • Service animals allowed

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers

  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

  • PLEASE READ CAREFULLY the option you choose when booking! Thank you!

  • The publication indicates a base capacity; however, the final number of passengers may vary.

Traveller ratings

4.8 out of 5 · 13 reviews
5
92%
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2
8%
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Activities, prices and reviews are from Viator. Booking and payment happen on Viator; Vacantier may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Discover penguins on Martillo Island in the Beagle Channel & more

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