When is the best season to see humpback whales?

The whale season runs from November to March, when humpbacks migrate to feed in the Strait of Magellan.

How comfortable is the EcoCamp accommodation?

The camp offers cozy, dome-style tents with beds, heating, and eco-friendly facilities—simple but comfortable for wilderness stays.

Do I need prior sailing experience?

No. All excursions are guided, and the boats are safe and equipped for Patagonian conditions.

Is this tour family-friendly?

Yes. Children can participate, though it’s recommended for ages 8 and up due to the remote setting.

What should I pack for the expedition?

Warm waterproof clothing, gloves, a hat, binoculars, sunscreen, and a camera are essential for Patagonian weather.

Chile Whale Watching Expedition: 3-Day Humpback Adventure in the Strait of Magellan | Kada Travel

Difficulty
Easy
Duration
3 Days/ 2 Nights
Best season
November to March
Meals
Full Board
Transportation
Van/ Sailboat
Departure from
Punta Arenas
Type Service
Share Service
Language
English/Spanish

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Set sail into the untamed waters of Patagonia on an exclusive 3-day/2-night whale watching expedition, designed for adventurous travelers who seek close encounters with pristine nature. Departing from Punta Arenas, this journey brings you face-to-face with the majesty of humpback whales, playful dolphins, colonies of sea lions, and flocks of seabirds that thrive in the Strait of Magellan. Each evening, return to your cozy eco-camp on Carlos III Island, where sustainable design meets wilderness comfort. Beyond whale watching, discover Santa Inés Glacier’s icy beauty and observe the charismatic Magellanic penguins on Rupert Island. Guided by expert naturalists and navigated aboard a private vessel, this program is the ultimate Patagonian wildlife experience.

Highlights

Santa Inés Glacier – Sail through icy channels to one of the most impressive glaciers in southern Chile.
Humpback Whale Encounters – Observe these giants breaching and tail-slapping in their natural feeding grounds.
EcoCamp Carlos III – Spend two nights in a unique, sustainable camp located in the heart of whale territory.
Magellanic Penguins – Visit Rupert Island, home to lively penguin colonies and pristine coastal scenery.
Marine Safari – Spot sea lions, dolphins, cormorants, and other rich Patagonian marine life.

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This 3-day expedition is more than a whale watching tour—it’s a profound immersion into the raw wilderness of Patagonia. You’ll sail across legendary waters once navigated by explorers like Magellan and Darwin, discovering a fragile ecosystem where glaciers, fjords, and wildlife coexist in perfect harmony. Each day brings a new adventure: from humpback whales feeding just meters from your boat, to hearing the crack of shifting ice at Santa Inés Glacier, and walking among playful penguins on Rupert Island. With comfortable eco-lodging, expert guides, and breathtaking landscapes, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature lovers.

Day 01 :

Punta Arenas – Sailing to Carlos III Island

Your Patagonian adventure begins with a morning pick-up at your hotel in Punta Arenas. Transfer to the port and board your private vessel for a full-day navigation across the Strait of Magellan. The day’s journey takes you through spectacular seascapes where sea lions bask on rocky shores and seabirds glide overhead. As the boat approaches Carlos III Island, keep your eyes on the horizon—this area is one of the world’s best feeding grounds for humpback whales, and the chances of sightings are high. Arrive at the EcoCamp Carlos III, a unique sustainable accommodation built to minimize environmental impact. After dinner, relax in the comfort of your dome tent, surrounded by the sounds of the wild ocean. Overnight at Carlos III EcoCamp.

Day 02 :

Marine Safari & Santa Inés Glacier Exploration

Wake up in the heart of Patagonia and embark on a full-day marine safari. Today’s focus is not only the majestic humpback whales, which often breach or slap their tails dramatically, but also the region’s diverse marine life: pods of dolphins, elephant seals, and flocks of cormorants. Your expert naturalist guide will share fascinating insights into the ecology of the Strait. In the afternoon, continue to the awe-inspiring Santa Inés Glacier, a massive wall of blue ice flowing from the Darwin Mountain Range. Witness icebergs floating serenely in the water as you get close enough to hear the creaks and groans of the shifting glacier. Return in the evening to EcoCamp Carlos III for dinner and a second night under Patagonian skies.

Day 03 :

Rupert Island & Return to Punta Arenas

On your final day, set out on a memorable navigation to Rupert Island, a pristine sanctuary home to Magellanic penguins. Walk carefully along the shoreline paths where hundreds of penguins waddle, nest, and fish in the chilly waters. This is a photographer’s dream, with close-up views of these charming birds and stunning coastal backdrops. Depending on the season, you may also spot dolphins and other seabirds that frequent the area. After enjoying a packed lunch and final moments of wildlife observation, begin your return journey across the Strait of Magellan. By evening, you’ll arrive back in Punta Arenas and be transferred to your hotel, carrying lifelong memories of Patagonia’s marine wonders.