Sailing and Hiking Isla Damas : Humboldt Penguin Reserve
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Sailing and Hiking Isla Damas : Humboldt Penguin Reserve

Active
(9 reviews)
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

You will get to know one of the most beautiful islands on the southern Pacific coast and one of the areas with the greatest diversity of marine species. The borders of the Green North of Coquimbo and the beginnings of the driest desert in the world: the Atacama stand out for having attractive landscapes and settlements of former seamen considered the most experienced fishermen in Chile "Los Choros, Pieles Rojas, Changos and Camanchacas". You will navigate and get to know three magical islands: Gaviotas, Choros and Damas and enjoy its incomparable geography, beaches and diversity of plants and cacti together with its attractive fauna of penguins, dolphins, sea birds, otters and sea lions. You will be able to walk through Isla Damas, a place with a fascinating beauty of numerous beaches and desert flora. The current Humboldt Penguin National Reserve generated in ancient times the construction of the first and last rafts made with sea lion skin.

Available options

Sailing and Hiking Isla Damas : Humboldt Penguin Reserve

Pickup included

What's included

Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle
Humboldt Penguin boat and reservation ticket

Detailed itinerary

1

Views of the foundational terraces, bell towers and monuments of the old town and the revolutionary Plan Serena

2

You will get to know this surprising geological sanctuary and smuggling port in the colony that stands out for its numerous geological formations and that teaches the evolution of the continent's coast since the Quaternary

3

We will ascend the Buenos Aires slope where in ancient times families and groups of bandits and rustlers lived, descendants of indigenous fishermen and pirates who assaulted the shops in the colony, being highly feared by the authorities of the time.

4

We will arrive at the Quebrada de Los Choros and learn about the native flora and fauna of cacti and semi-arid flora together with the fauna of guanacos, foxes and birds of this beautiful basin and underground river to later visit the picturesque mud and totora houses of this town considered one of the oldest in Chile that was also the conquest camp of Pedro de Valdivia

5

We will arrive at this fishing village located at the tip of the continent in front of the Gaviotas, Choros and Damas Islands. From its Cove we will begin the navigation to the Islands of the Humboldt Penguin National Reserve

6

After setting sail from Punta de Choros, sailing and exploring the varied geography and marine fauna of Choros Island (1 hour) and spotting its beautiful and varied seabirds, Humboldt penguins, sea lions and sea otters, we will head to Damas Island (descent not confirmed by the presence of avian flu) where you can appreciate its beautiful landscapes of beaches, cacti and flowers as well as its different formations and geographical units where the amazing human and animal figures that appear on the rocks stand out (45 minutes of navigation). In low season the descent on Damas Island is from Thursday to Sunday for 1 hour.

7

We will have lunch in a restaurant specializing in fish and seafood, a menu based on different options for starters, background and dessert with a soft drink included.

8

We return to La Serena to the passenger accommodations

What's not included

tips

Available languages

Guide guide
EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.2
9 reviews
5★
6
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About La Serena

La Serena is a coastal city in northern Chile known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and clear night skies. It's a popular destination for both relaxation and stargazing, offering a mix of modern amenities and traditional charm.

Top Attractions

Elqui Valley

A picturesque valley known for its vineyards, pisco production, and clear night skies. It's a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

Nature Full day Moderate

La Serena Beach

A popular beach with golden sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half day to full day Free

Fuerte de La Serena

A historic fort built in the 17th century to protect the city from pirate attacks. It's now a museum showcasing the city's history.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pisco Sour

A traditional Chilean cocktail made with pisco, lemon juice, sugar, and egg white.

Drink Contains alcohol

Empanadas de Pino

Fried or baked pastries filled with a mixture of ground beef, onions, raisins, olives, and hard-boiled eggs.

Snack Contains meat and gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking in Elqui Valley Surfing at La Serena Beach Sunbathing at the beach Spa treatments Visiting museums Attending local festivals Swimming Snorkeling

Best Time to Visit

December to March (summer)

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, long days, and the best conditions for beach activities. The city is lively with festivals and events.

18°C to 28°C 64°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Spanish
  • Widely spoken: English (limited)
  • English: Limited

Currency

Chilean Peso (CLP)

Time Zone

CLT (UTC-4)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

La Serena is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty theft and scams.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure
  • • Avoid walking alone at night
  • • Use reputable taxi services

Getting there

By air
  • La Florida Airport • 10 km from city center
By bus

Terminal de Buses de La Serena

Getting around

Public transport

Micros are the primary mode of public transport in La Serena. They are affordable and frequent but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, Cabify

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro Peñuelas

Day trips

Valparaiso
150 km • Full day

A vibrant port city known for its colorful houses, street art, and historic funiculars.

Marmotero Beach
30 km • Half day

A secluded beach known for its clear waters and relaxed atmosphere.

Festivals

La Serena International Jazz Festival • January Fiesta de La Serena • October

Pro tips

  • Visit the beach early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cool breeze
  • Book a stargazing tour in advance, especially during peak season
  • Try local seafood dishes like ceviche and grilled fish
  • Explore the Elqui Valley for a mix of nature, wine, and pisco tasting
  • Use local transportation like micros to get a feel for the city
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 18-65
1
Childs
Age 3-9
0
Infants
Age 1-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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