Ushuaia: Gable Island and Penguin Colony With Canoeing

Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, serves as a gateway to the stunning landscapes of Patagonia. Travelers seeking an unforgettable outdoor adventure can embark on the Gable Island and Penguin Colony tour, which promises to immerse them in the region’s natural beauty. From canoeing along the Lasifashaj River and Beagle Channel to observing the charming penguins on Isla Martillo, this small-group excursion offers an opportunity to connect with the wild side of Patagonia. With knowledgeable guides and a focus on the local wildlife and ecosystems, this tour promises an experience that will linger long after the trip has ended.

This experience made our list of the 10 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Ushuaia.

Key Points

• This 9-hour tour offers canoeing along Lasifashaj River, visits to the Isla Martillo penguin colony, and a guided hike on Gable Island.
• The tour costs $395 per person with possible discounts up to 15% and allows for flexible booking and cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
• Participants can expect to see a variety of seabirds, with a moderate likelihood of spotting sea lions, during the nature-focused excursion.
• Pickup from hotels is included, and the tour operates in both Spanish and English with knowledgeable guides.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 5 or individuals with limited mobility, with a maximum group size of 10 for a personalized experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Gable Island and Penguin Colony tour offers an immersive 9-hour experience that typically costs $395.00 per person, though discounts of up to 15% may be available.

This flexible booking option allows visitors to reserve now and pay later, with the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour is limited to just 10 participants, ensuring an uncrowded and personalized nature experience.

Transportation is provided, with pickups from hotels, though guests must be ready in the lobby 10 minutes prior to departure as drivers wait no more than 5 minutes.

Itinerary Highlights

Participants paddle inflatable canoes along the Lasifashaj River and the Beagle Channel, offering a unique vantage point to witness the natural beauty of the region.

They’ll visit Isla Martillo to see penguins at their breeding site, where they can observe the charming creatures up close.

Afterwards, they’ll explore Gable Island with a hot lunch featuring Patagonian wine, soft drinks, and mineral water.

The guided hike through forests and along the marine coast provides opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife, including seabirds and possibly sea lions, all while enjoying the uncrowded nature and scenic views.

Wildlife and Nature Experience

Visitors can expect to encounter a variety of wildlife throughout the excursion. The region is home to an abundance of seabirds, including species such as cormorants, skuas, and kelp gulls. With luck, guests may even spot the majestic sea lions lounging on the rocky shores. The diverse ecosystem of Gable Island and the surrounding waters provides a unique opportunity to observe the delicate balance of nature.

Wildlife Sightings	Likelihood
Seabirds	High
Sea Lions	Moderate
Whales	Low
Otters	Low
Dolphins	Low

The tour offers an uncrowded and scenic naturalist experience, allowing participants to enjoy the pristine Patagonian landscape.

Transportation and Logistics

Typically, pickup is included from the participant’s hotel, though airport and port pickups aren’t available. Drivers will wait no longer than 5 minutes for participants, so it’s crucial to be ready in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.

The transportation provided is efficient, ensuring a smooth start to the adventure. Once everyone is gathered, the group will embark on their journey to explore the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Gable Island and the Penguin Colony.

The logistics are well-organized, allowing participants to focus on the remarkable natural wonders that await them during this immersive excursion.

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Important Information

This excursion isn’t suitable for young children under 5 years old, individuals with limited mobility, or cruise ship passengers, who’d require a private service.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring a change of clothes and rain gear, as the weather can be unpredictable in Patagonia.

The tour operates in Spanish and English, with knowledgeable guides providing insights throughout the experience.

Guests are advised to wait in their hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup, as drivers will only wait up to 5 minutes before departing.

With its focus on nature, wildlife, and scenic vistas, this tour offers an immersive and enjoyable way to explore the Gable Island and Penguin Colony in Ushuaia.

Flexible Booking and Cancellation

Booking this excursion is flexible, allowing travelers to reserve now and pay later.

Visitors can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind when planning.

The Gable Island and Penguin Colony tour has a limited group size of 10 participants, ensuring an intimate and uncrowded experience.

This policy caters to those seeking a hassle-free booking process and the ability to adjust plans if needed.

With the convenience of flexible reservations and generous cancellation terms, guests can confidently secure their spot on this captivating nature and wildlife adventure in Ushuaia.

Group Size and Exclusions

With a limited group size of just 10 participants, the Gable Island and Penguin Colony tour ensures an intimate and uncrowded experience. This small-group format allows for personalized attention from the knowledgeable guides and ample opportunities to fully immerse in the stunning Patagonian wilderness.

However, the tour does have some exclusions. It is not suitable for children under 5 or those with mobility impairments. Cruise ship guests also cannot join this tour and must instead book a private service.

Exclusions	Reason
Children under 5	Safety concerns
People with mobility impairments	Physically demanding activities
Cruise ship guests	Private service required

The tour’s focused group size and thoughtful exclusions create an exceptional and accessible adventure for the right travelers.

Customer Reviews

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Gable Island and Penguin Colony tour, with an exceptional 4.9/5 rating based on 27 reviews.

Reviewers highlight the tour’s knowledgeable guides, great transportation, and excellent value for money. Participants emphasize the enjoyable experience and the opportunity to enjoy Patagonia’s beautiful natural scenery.

The tour provides an uncrowded wildlife and nature encounter, allowing visitors to see seabirds and potentially spot sea lions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

The minimum age requirement for participants is 5 years old. The tour is not suitable for children under 5, as it may pose safety risks and limit the overall experience.

Are Alcoholic Beverages Included in the Lunch?

The tour includes a hot lunch with Patagonian wine, soft drinks, and mineral water. Alcoholic beverages, such as the featured Patagonian wine, are provided as part of the lunch during the Gable Island exploration.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Canoeing Equipment?

Participants cannot bring their own canoeing equipment. The tour provides all necessary equipment, including inflatable canoes, paddles, and life jackets. This ensures the safety and smooth operation of the excursion for all participants.

Is There a Discount for Larger Groups?

The tour operator doesn’t offer group discounts, but participants can save up to 15% on the per-person price. The tour is limited to 10 participants to ensure a personalized and uncrowded experience in the scenic Patagonian wilderness.

What Is the Maximum Weight Capacity for the Canoes?

The tour operator doesn’t specify a maximum weight capacity for the canoes. However, they limit group size to 10 participants, suggesting the canoes can safely accommodate all participants and their gear within reasonable weight limits.

Recap

The Gable Island and Penguin Colony tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife of Patagonia. From canoeing along the Lasifashaj River to observing adorable penguins in their natural habitat, this small-group excursion promises an unforgettable day of adventure and discovery. With knowledgeable guides and a focus on nature, it’s a must-do experience for anyone visiting Ushuaia.

You can check if your dates are available here: