Gable Island and Penguin Rookery by Canoe
An expedition through the Beagle Channel combining canoeing, a hike on Gable Island, and penguin watching at Martillo Island.
From US$ 500
The experience
We present one of Tierra del Fuego’s most complete and memorable experiences: an epic day of adventure in which we paddle canoes through the waters of the Beagle Channel before landing on remote Gable Island for a hike through its pristine nature. We enjoy lunch at an exclusive refuge with spectacular views and end the day observing Magellanic penguins at Martillo Island. This authentic full-day expedition begins in Ushuaia, from where we travel east along National Route No. 3 before joining the winding Route J, which takes us to the coast of the Beagle Channel.
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The place
Gable Island lies in a remote section of the Beagle Channel, surrounded by mountains, subantarctic forests, and southern waters. Its landscape combines irregular coastlines, peatland, grasslands, native forest, and natural trails with some wet or muddy sections. The island offers broad views of the Beagle Channel, the Fuegian coast, and the mountains of Navarino Island in Chilean territory.
Why we love it
Because it is one of Tierra del Fuego’s most complete experiences. In a single day it combines navigation, canoeing, hiking, history, gastronomy, and wildlife, offering access to remote places in the Beagle Channel far from the conventional circuits.
Included
- Transfers to and from the accommodation.
- Overland transportation to the Canal Beagle coast.
- Specialized guide in Spanish or English.
- Inflatable-canoe crossing.
- Technical and safety briefing.
- Canoeing equipment.
- Rubber boots.
- Waterproof over-pants.
- Life jacket.
- Landing on Isla Gable.
- Guided walk of approximately 4.5 km.
- Motorboat navigation.
- Penguin watching from the boat.
- Entrance to Estancia Harberton.
- Full lunch with drinks.
- Included lunch: appetizer with pickles, olives, cheeses and ham; hake en papillote with lemon butter, rustic potatoes and thyme vegetables; panna cotta with berry jam; mineral water and Patagonian red wine.
- The menu may change and must be confirmed when booking.
Not included
- Walking among penguins on Isla Martillo.
- Landing on Isla Martillo.
- Additional food or drinks.
- Personal expenses.
- Services not specified.
- Gratuities.
What to bring
- Waterproof boots or footwear with good grip.
- Comfortable long pants.
- Waterproof and windproof jacket.
- Thermal clothing and warm layers.
- Fleece or microfleece.
- Hat, gloves and thermal neck warmer.
- Sunglasses.
- Sunscreen.
- Reusable bottle.
- Small backpack.
- Spare pair of socks.
- Waterproof protection for cameras and electronic devices.
Accessibility
The experience is not adapted for wheelchair users and may be difficult for guests with reduced mobility. It includes boarding and leaving canoes and boats, a walk over natural terrain and several hours of activity. Independent mobility and adequate physical condition are required. Guests who do not wish or are unable to paddle may request an alternative route in advance, subject to availability and supplier confirmation.
Recommendations
The day lasts approximately eleven hours, generally from 08:00 to 19:00. Rest well and have breakfast before departure. Please advise in advance of allergies, intolerances or dietary preferences, and also if any guest does not wish or is unable to take part in the canoe section. During wildlife watching, follow the guide's instructions, remain quiet and do not feed or disturb the animals.
Restrictions
Minimum age: 5.|Minors must be accompanied by an adult.|Moderate-intensity canoeing for approximately 1.5 hours.|Moderate-intensity walking for approximately 2.5 hours.|Walking distance: approximately 4.5 km.|Penguin watching takes place from the boat.|No landing or walking among penguins is included.|Not recommended during pregnancy.|Not recommended for guests with reduced mobility.|Guests with heart, respiratory, joint or back conditions should consult before booking.|Life jacket and provided equipment must be used.|The guide's instructions must be followed at all times.|Wildlife sightings and numbers cannot be guaranteed.|An alternative itinerary without canoeing must be requested in advance.
Weather policy
The excursion is subject to weather and sea conditions. The route, order of activities and schedules may change according to weather, time of year, Canal Beagle conditions and group characteristics. If canoeing or navigation cannot be done safely, the supplier may adapt, replace, reschedule or cancel part of the experience. The final decision rests with the guide and boat captain. If suspended, the supplier's current rescheduling or refund policies apply.
Experience details
- Duration
- 10 hours
- Availability
- January, February, March, October, November, December
- Options
- Private, Shared
- Activity level
- Moderate
- Suitable for children
- Yes
- Subject to availability
- Dates depend on availability, the provider or prior confirmation.
LocationUshuaia