Observe Humpback Whales on Carlos III Island in Francisco Coloane Marine Park
- Duration: 3 Days, 2 Nights
- Departures: December to March
- Activity Level: Easy, possible for everyone of any age in general good health
A few years ago, a group of Chilean biologists discovered an until then unexplored feeding ground of Humpback Whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) on the southernmost tip of South America. Every Patagonian summer, these astonishing marine mammals return to an area around Carlos III Island, which is located right in the legendary Strait of Magellan.
Their passion for science and their love for nature has led to the creation of Chile’s first marine protected area, Francisco Coloane Marine Park.
Turismo Aonikenk has been one of the main supporters of this project from its beginning in 2004, because we believe in conservation through science and tourism.
Day 1: Sail the Strait of Magellan – Whale Watching – Carlos III Island
This whale watching adventure begins at 8:00 a.m. from Hospedaje Magallanes in Punta Arenas. The shuttle will pick you up and take you to the embark point, where you will sail the famous Strait of Magellan on board the vessel “Tanu”. On the way, pass Cape Froward, the southernmost point on the mainland of South America. After about eight hours of sailing, arrive to Carlos III Island, where the scientific eco-camp is situated in the heart of Francisco Coloane Marine Park. Here you will stay for the next two nights. Later, explore the pristine ecosystem of the surroundings of the camp and join your guide and one of the scientists on a short walk to the wildlife observatory. Weather permitting, set out for a short excursion to observe whales and seabirds. In the evening, enjoy a lecture about the camps installations, Francisco Coloane Marine Park and its marine wildlife as well as the scientific work done down here at the End of the World. [L, D]
Day 2: Whale Watching – Whale Sound – Santa Ines Glacier
In the morning, plenty of time to observe Humpback Whales, Sea Lions and an array of seabirds including Magellanic penguins, Chilean Skua, Black-browed albatross amongst others. After lunch at the camp at Isla Carlos III, sail through Whale Sound, a scenic Fueguian fjord to the amazing Santa Ines Glacier – what a site! [B, L, D]
Day 3: Whale Watching – Carlos III Island – Punta Arenas
Enjoy some more time to observe the whales and the seabirds of this area. Return to the camp at Carlos III Island for lunch. In the afternoon, begin the return journey to Punta Arenas, where you will arrive at about 8:00 p.m. [B, L]
Included Meals
B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner
Note
All departure times of navigations depend on weather conditions. Changes in the program may occur without prior notice.
Tour Includes
- Transfers according to the program
- Bilingual tour guide (Spanish and English speaking)
- 2 nights accommodation at the eco-camp at Carlos III Island in 2-person dome tents with wood-burning stoves; shared bathroom; sleeping bags, sheets, blankets and towels are provided
- All meals specified in the program (see itinerary: B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner)
- Thermal overall/ jumpsuit for your protection from the Patagonian weather
- Scientific lectures
Additional Costs
- Optional tips to your guide and/ or other people working for you (e.g. the boatmen etc.)
Departures
Price
USD 1,500.- per person
Single Accommodation
Single occupancy is available for 1.5 times the rate stated above (add USD 750.- per person). This surcharge only applies if you explicitly wish and book single accommodation. Single/ solo travellers may share a room/ tent without surcharge