Martillo Island, in the Beagle Channel east of Ushuaia, hosts a penguin colony that is among the most accessible in South America. Most boat trips only sail past the island, but a small number of licensed operators run walking visits where a limited group steps ashore with a guide and follows marked paths along the shore. You see Magellanic penguins at their burrows, and, with luck, gentoo penguins and the occasional visiting king penguin, all within a few metres. Walks are tightly capped to protect the birds, so spaces are limited and the experience feels intimate rather than touristy. The tour we link to is a guided penguin walk with an optional navigation add-on, rated well by travellers. Because the walk depends on the breeding season, it only runs for part of the year. Penguins are on the island from around October, and tours are usually offered through the southern summer, so spring is the start of the window. Check exact departure dates for the season when you book.
Understand how the colony works. Magellanic penguins return to Tierra del Fuego each spring to dig burrows, lay eggs and raise chicks, then leave in autumn for open water. Gentoo penguins have been nesting on Martillo Island in smaller numbers for some years. Guides explain behaviour, such as why penguins stand with flippers out to cool down, and keep visitors on the paths and at a respectful distance. You are asked not to touch the animals or leave the route, and the birds often come right up to the edge of the path anyway.
Logistics vary by operator. Some walks leave Ushuaia by road for the Estancia Harberton area and cross to the island in a small inflatable boat, which makes for a longer day of around six hours with time on the road and in the boat. Others sail from the Ushuaia pier and land on the island directly.
Prices are noticeably higher than the standard boat trips because of the limited places and the permit system, so read the description carefully to see whether the walk or just a sailing past the island is included. Book well ahead in the peak weeks of December and January, and keep your passport details handy in case the operator asks for them.
Dress for wind and mud. Waterproof shoes, warm layers and a rain shell are sensible, and a camera strap is a good idea because penguins lead you to crouch and shoot at ground level. Bring snacks and water for the longer versions. If you want a cheaper alternative, the standard Beagle Channel cruises give distant penguin views from the boat in season, but the walk is the real encounter.
What to expect
The experience
A guided landing on Martillo Island with a small group, following marked paths past penguin burrows and along the shore.
Best time
The colony season runs roughly from October through the southern summer, so spring is the start; confirm the final departures for the season with the operator.
How long
Between about three and six hours depending on whether you sail from the pier or travel by road to Harberton first.
Tips
Book early because daily places are capped, wear waterproof shoes and layers, and follow the guide about distance from the birds.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants to be close to penguins on foot rather than watch from a boat.
- Families
- Older children who can follow rules will love it, though the limited places and long day suit patient families.
- Couples
- A memorable shared encounter, best booked early for the best departure time.
- Pair with
- A king crab lunch at Puerto Almanza if your route goes via the coast road.
- Time needed
- Allow a half day or a long afternoon.
Good questions
When are the penguins on Martillo Island?+
Penguins arrive around October and stay through the southern summer, so spring is the start of the season. Tour operators set their own last dates, so check them when you book.
Is it true you can walk among the penguins?+
Yes, but only on licensed walking tours with small groups. Cheaper boat trips sail past the island without landing.
Why is the walk expensive?+
Places are limited to protect the colony and the logistics involve transfers and small boats. That keeps groups small and the visit low-impact.
Can children join?+
Operators set age limits and some require guardians to supervise closely. Check the booking details before reserving.
What should I bring?+
Waterproof shoes, warm layers, a rain jacket, water and a camera with a zoom. Keep your passport details handy in case the operator asks for them.
