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A single Magellanic penguin standing on a rocky shore looking back.

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Magdalena Island Lighthouse (Faro Isla Magdalena)

Built in 1902, this historic navigation landmark stands at the highest point of Magdalena Island.

Photo: tour listing on Viator

Scottish engineer George Slight built this red and white tower to guide ships through the Strait of Magellan. Today, it serves as the endpoint of the island's 800-meter roped walking trail.

Because conservation rules limit your visit to exactly one hour, you should pace your walk. Plan to spend about 25 minutes at the summit exploring the structure and reading the CONAF displays before heading back to your boat.

Tourists on a boat observing sea lions near a rocky cliff.
Photo: tour listing on Viator
01

Lighthouse Exterior & Panorama

10 min360-degree views

This striking red and white iron-and-concrete tower offers 360-degree views of the Strait of Magellan. It is a fantastic backdrop for photography. You can easily capture the Magellanic penguins in the foreground with the lighthouse standing behind them.

Many penguins gathered on a field with a lighthouse in the background.
Photo: tour listing on Viator
02

Interpretive Center

10 minIsland history

The attached lighthouse keeper's house operates as a small shelter managed by CONAF. Inside, you will find informational plaques detailing the maritime and ecological history of the island. Take a few minutes to read these displays while escaping the Patagonian wind.

Tourists and boats near a penguin colony on a rocky coast.
Photo: tour listing on Viator
03

Park Ranger Station

5 minCONAF Rangers

This is the operational base for the CONAF rangers who live on the island. They monitor the penguin population and strictly enforce conservation rules. If you speak Spanish, ask the highly knowledgeable rangers about the current nesting season's statistics.

Book a Catamaran Tour

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Magdalene Island Catamaran Tour Walk Among Magellanic Penguins5 h from $140
catamaran tourfrom $140 on Viator
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