Toubkal Trekking

Walk with Penguins on Magdalena & Marta Island in Punta Arenas

When someone says “Punta Arenas,” most people imagine a chilly breeze, maybe some glaciers, perhaps a llama or two. But what they should picture is a waddling army of tuxedoed cuteness: the Magellanic penguins of Magdalena and Marta Island. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to get side-eyed by a penguin who clearly has better things to do, welcome to your new favorite day trip. Walk with Penguins on Magdalena & Marta Island in Punta Arenas is really worth it!

Getting There: The Journey of the Seasick

The trip kicks off with a boat ride from Punta Arenas, and it’s… let’s call it “brisk.” The Strait of Magellan is gorgeous but doesn’t care much for your stomach. Those prone to seasickness are encouraged to pregame with ginger, Dramamine, or at least a solid pep talk. But once you hit the islands, it’s all worth it. Really.

Magdalena Island is the star of the show — basically Penguin Las Vegas, minus the neon lights. The island is home to over 120,000 Magellanic penguins during breeding season (October to March), which means you’re outnumbered. Significantly. It’s their island. You’re just visiting.

So, What’s the Deal with These Penguins?

These aren’t your polite, zoo-dwelling penguins. The Magellanic penguins are full-on wild and have places to be. They waddle purposefully from their burrows to the shore like they’re late for a meeting. They honk like tiny, feathered donkeys. And if one stops to look you up and down, don’t take it personally — they’re just judging your choice of footwear.

Visitors walk a roped-off path to keep respectful distance (which the penguins sometimes honor). It’s basically a reverse safari. You’re the one in the enclosure, and the penguins roam freely, peering at you like, “What’s this creature doing on my turf?”

Marta Island: Where Sea Lions Yell at You

Once you’ve overdosed on penguin magic, the boat continues to Marta Island, which isn’t for walking — unless your idea of a good time is playing tag with territorial sea lions. Instead, you’ll stay onboard while hundreds of barking, blubbery beasts sunbathe, nap, and occasionally shout things that sound suspiciously like insults.

The sea lions are loud, proud, and deeply uninterested in your camera. You’ll also spot cormorants, skuas, and maybe even a dolphin or two if the sea gods are feeling generous.

Dress Code: Windbreaker Chic

Don’t be fooled by the sun peeking out — the wind in Patagonia is basically its own living entity, and it is extra. Dress like you’re going to be stranded on a cold, stylish planet: layers, windproof jackets, and a hat that won’t blow into the ocean five minutes in.

Oh, and comfy shoes. You’re walking among penguins. Respect the moment with proper footwear.

The Takeaway: Come for the Penguins, Stay for the Existential Joy

There’s something life-affirming about standing on a wind-blasted island at the edge of the world, surrounded by creatures that couldn’t care less about your Instagram. The penguins of Magdalena Island are not there to perform — they’re just living their best life. And watching them reminds you, maybe you should too.

So go. Get honked at by a penguin. Be humbled by a sea lion’s roar. And remember: in Punta Arenas, you’re just a tourist. The penguins are the locals.