Penguins Watching Cachagua Island in Zapallar From Santiago

Embark on an extraordinary journey to witness the captivating colony of penguins on Cachagua Island, just a stone’s throw from the charming town of Zapallar. This captivating day trip from Santiago offers a unique opportunity to observe these playful seabirds in their natural habitat, surrounded by the stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean. With a private boat transfer and ample time on the island, you’ll learn about the enchanting world of these remarkable creatures. But the adventure doesn’t end there – explore the quaint seaside town and savor a delectable lunch, creating an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure-seekers alike.

Key Points

• Take a 5-7 hour private boat tour from Santiago to Isla Pinguinos Cachagua to observe a penguin colony and explore the towns of Zapallar and Con Con Beach.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, private transportation, a 2-hour penguin observation, and a 2-hour stop at Con Con Beach for lunch.
• Live guides provide commentary in both Spanish and English, offering insights into the penguin behaviors and the history and culture of the Zapallar region.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, and participants are advised to wear appropriate attire and follow safety guidelines.
• Flexible booking options are available, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a "reserve now & pay later" option.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

Penguins Watching Cachagua Island in Zapallar is a 5-7 hour tour that takes visitors to observe the captivating penguin colony on Isla Pinguinos Cachagua.

Priced from $348 per person, the tour includes a private boat trip, 2 hours on the island, and visits to Zapallar and Con Con Beach.

A live tour guide is available in both Spanish and English. Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are free.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, who should plan accordingly.

Participants should bring appropriate clothing and gear, as no alcohol, drugs, or drones are allowed.

Itinerary Details

The tour itinerary begins with a private boat trip from Zapallar Dock to Isla Pinguinos Cachagua, which takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Once on the island, guests will have 2 hours to observe the penguin colony.

Then, they’ll spend 2 hours exploring the charming town of Zapallar.

The final stop is Con Con Beach, where they’ll enjoy a lunch of traditional Chilean empanadas over the course of 2 hours.

Throughout the excursion, a live guide will provide commentary in both Spanish and English.

Included in the Tour

The tour includes several key services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. Participants will receive:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off, providing door-to-door convenience.

• Private transportation throughout the excursion, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey.

• A complimentary snack to fuel the adventure.

• A first aid kit on board, prioritizing safety and well-being.

• Gratuities, which are optional, allowing guests to recognize exceptional service at their discretion.

These thoughtful inclusions demonstrate the tour operator’s commitment to delivering a comprehensive and hassle-free experience for guests to fully enjoy the wonders of Cachagua Island and its captivating penguin colony.

Participant Guidelines

This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to the nature of the activities and terrain involved.

Participants should wear long pants, rain gear, hats, sunglasses, jackets, and sunscreen to protect themselves from the elements.

Drones, alcohol, drugs, and smoking (including in the vehicle) aren’t allowed on this tour.

These guidelines are in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.

Following these simple rules will help make the Penguins Watching Cachagua Island tour a memorable and comfortable experience for everyone.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Travel Time and Distance

Approximately a 1 hour and 55-minute drive separates Santiago Hotel from the picturesque town of Zapallar, the starting point for the Penguins Watching Cachagua Island tour.

This scenic journey takes travelers through the stunning Chilean countryside, offering glimpses of the Pacific Ocean and the region’s natural beauty.

The tour’s flexible booking options make it convenient for visitors, with the ability to reserve now and pay later.

Participants can expect:

• Efficient hotel pickup and drop-off arrangements
• A comfortable private transportation experience
• A seamless journey to the tour’s various destinations
• Ample time to explore the highlights, including Isla Pinguinos Cachagua and Con Con Beach
• A hassle-free experience from start to finish.

Cancellation Policy

Travelers can rest assured that the Penguins Watching Cachagua Island tour offers flexible booking options and a generous cancellation policy.

With a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, customers can book with confidence and receive a full refund if their plans change. This flexibility allows for last-minute decision-making and provides peace of mind for those organizing their trip.

The pay later option further enhances the convenience, enabling travelers to secure their spot without an immediate financial commitment.

Tour Languages

The Penguins Watching Cachagua Island tour offers live tour guides available in both Spanish and English, catering to the diverse language preferences of travelers. This ensures that visitors can fully engage with and understand the fascinating insights about the island’s penguin colony and the surrounding natural beauty.

The tour guides are knowledgeable and experienced, providing:

• Detailed explanations about the penguins’ behaviors and habitat
• Historical and cultural information about the Zapallar region
• Recommendations for the best photo opportunities
• Responses to any questions participants may have
• Seamless communication throughout the excursion

This multilingual approach enhances the overall tour experience, making it accessible and enjoyable for both Spanish and English-speaking guests.

Booking and Payment

Visitors can book the Penguins Watching Cachagua Island tour online, taking advantage of the flexible "reserve now & pay later" option.

The tour costs $348 per person and includes hotel pickup, private transportation, a snack, and a first aid kit. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour is available in both Spanish and English, with a live guide leading the experience. Participants should bring appropriate clothing and gear, as the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

The distance from Santiago to Zapallar is under 2 hours, making this a convenient day trip from the capital.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to See the Penguins?

The best time to see the penguins is typically between September and April, when they’re most active and their breeding season is in full swing. This ensures optimal viewing opportunities.

Can I Book a Private Tour for Just My Group?

Yes, the tour is a private group experience. Guests can book the tour just for their own group and enjoy a personalized excursion to see the penguins on Cachagua Island.

Do I Need to Know Spanish or English to Participate?

Participants don’t need to know Spanish or English to take the tour. The live tour guide is available in both languages, ensuring all guests can fully enjoy the experience regardless of their linguistic abilities.

How Close Can I Get to the Penguins on the Island?

Visitors can get quite close to the penguins on Cachagua Island, as the tour includes a private boat trip to the island. The guides will ensure a safe and responsible viewing experience from designated observation areas.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included in the Price?

The tour price includes all necessary fees and taxes. There are no additional charges not covered in the listed price. Participants can expect a comprehensive experience with transportation, snacks, and a guided visit to the Penguins Island included.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a unique opportunity to observe a lively colony of penguins in their natural habitat, complemented by breathtaking ocean views. With a private boat trip and exploration of the charming town of Zapallar, it’s an ideal excursion for nature lovers seeking a memorable adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: