Isla Martillo Penguin Walk – Tour from Ushuaia

Located about 90 km from the city of Ushuaia, Isla Martillo is one of the most fascinating spots in the Beagle Channel. Here lives a large colony of Magellanic and Gentoo penguins that return each summer to breed and nest.

This Isla Martillo penguin tour combines nature, navigation and a guided walk with specialized bilingual guides, offering you an exclusive experience: walking among penguins in their natural habitat.

Tour Itinerary

1. Departure from Ushuaia

The tour begins with check-in at the Tourist Pier (Av. Prefectura Naval 410). From there, we’ll travel along National Route Nº 3, passing through the beautiful landscapes of Tierra del Fuego: lenga and coihue forests, peat bogs, and mountains.

2. Arrival at Estancia Harberton

We’ll continue along Route J until we reach the historic Estancia Harberton, the oldest ranch in the area. Here, we’ll board a semi-rigid zodiac boat that will take us across the Beagle Channel to Isla Martillo.

3. Navigation and Penguin Walk

After a 15-minute navigation, we’ll arrive at Isla Martillo, where we’ll enjoy a 1-hour guided walk among the Magellanic and Gentoo penguin colonies.

Your guide will share interesting facts about their behavior, breeding season and the unique adaptations that allow them to thrive at the southernmost tip of the world.

4. Return to Ushuaia

After visiting the penguin colony, we’ll return along the same route, admiring the landscapes of the Fuegian Patagonia and, if the weather allows, a beautiful sunset over the Beagle Channel.

Highlights of the Tour

• Magellanic and Gentoo penguin colony: over 3,000 penguins nest on the island every summer.
• Estancia Harberton: founded in 1886, this is the first ranch established in Tierra del Fuego and a landmark of local history.
• Beagle Channel navigation: enjoy one of the most iconic maritime routes at the end of the world.
• Responsible experience: small groups and controlled access to protect the natural ecosystem.

Useful Information

• Duration: 7 hours (including transportation and navigation).
• Season: from October to March, during the penguin season in Ushuaia.
• Difficulty: low. Not recommended for pregnant women or people with reduced mobility.
• Languages: Spanish and English-speaking guides.
• Important: when Estancia Harberton is open, an entrance fee must be paid separately. The ranch is closed on Tuesdays.

Why Choose Daytours4u

• Local expertise: over 10 years organizing tours in Ushuaia and across Patagonia.
• Certified guides: professional, bilingual, and passionate about the region’s wildlife and history.
• Secure booking: easy online reservations with instant confirmation and multilingual support.

Book Your Isla Martillo Penguin Walk

Experience one of the most unforgettable adventures in Ushuaia — walk among penguins in Isla Martillo and witness their daily life up close.

Limited spots per season – book your Isla Martillo tour with Daytours4u today and make unforgettable memories at the end of the world.

• When is the best time to see penguins in Ushuaia?

The penguin season on Isla Martillo runs from October to March, during their breeding period. Summer offers the best chance to see large colonies and baby penguins.

• Can I visit Isla Martillo on my own?

No. Access to the island is only possible through authorized tour operators, as it is a protected natural reserve.

• What kind of penguins can be seen?

Mainly Magellanic and Gentoo penguins. Occasionally, a few King penguins can also be spotted on the island.

• How do you get to Isla Martillo from Ushuaia?

The tour includes transportation from Ushuaia to Estancia Harberton, followed by a zodiac boat navigation to the island.

• What should I bring on the tour?

Dress in warm layered clothing, wear waterproof shoes, and bring a hat, gloves, and sunscreen. Weather can change quickly in Patagonia.