Ushuaia: Gable Island and Penguin Colony with Canoeing

Ushuaia Department, Argentina



Discover one of the wildest places in the Beagle Channel on an adventurous day of canoeing, hiking, and boating. See penguins and look for sea lions, as you make your way through the Beagle Channel.

Beagle Channel Canoeing and Penguin Watching Tour from Ushuaia

This full-day active excursion from Ushuaia combines canoeing, hiking, and wildlife viewing, ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive Tierra del Fuego experience.

Highlights

  • Paddle inflatable canoes along the Beagle Channel
  • Take a motorboat to Isla Martillo to see penguins
  • Visit Gable Island and enjoy a hot Patagonian lunch

Description

The tour departs eastward from Ushuaia via National Route No. 3 and Route J, reaching the Beagle Channel coast where you prepare to paddle inflatable canoes toward Gable Island. Participants use rubber boots, over-pants, and life jackets for safety and comfort.

Following the route once used by native peoples, you paddle through the channel until arriving at a refuge on Gable Island. Here, you will have a hot lunch accompanied by Patagonian wine, soft drinks, and mineral water.

After lunch and coffee, the excursion continues with a hike across Gable Island, an uninhabited area featuring remains from the Yámana civilization and early settlers. The hike offers an opportunity to connect with the region’s natural and cultural history.

Next, a motorboat takes you to Martillo Island, where you spend approximately 20 minutes observing penguins at their breeding site. The boat then returns to the mainland, where your vehicle will be waiting to transport you back to Ushuaia.

Includes

  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off
  • Canoeing equipment
  • Entrance fee to Harberton Ranch

Important Information

  • Cruise ship passengers cannot join this regular tour and must book a private service to fit cruise schedules

Easy Cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

It is recommended to bring warm, waterproof clothing and a camera. Book in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on this active excursion.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes paddling inflatable canoes along the Beagle Channel, visiting the penguin colony on Isla Martillo by motorboat, and exploring Gable Island with a Patagonian lunch.
The tour departs from Ushuaia, Argentina, heading east via National Route No. 3 and Route J to the Beagle Channel coast.
Yes, the tour provides all necessary safety gear and instructions, making it suitable for beginners who want to paddle in the Beagle Channel.
You can observe Magellanic and gentoo penguins at Isla Martillo, as well as other typical Tierra del Fuego coastal wildlife.
Yes, a traditional hot Patagonian lunch is included during the visit to Gable Island.
The tour is a full-day activity that lasts several hours, departing in the morning and returning in the late afternoon; check the website for exact timings.
Participants are provided with rubber boots, over-pants, and life jackets, but it’s recommended to dress in warm, layered clothing suitable for Patagonian weather.
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, but children should be comfortable with canoeing and outdoor activities in cool weather.
The route involves paddling inflatable canoes along the Beagle Channel coastline, combined with motorboat transfers to Isla Martillo and Gable Island.
The tour operates primarily during the warmer months in Argentina; check the website for seasonal availability and schedules.

Trusted local guides, read by millions every month

  • 26.2M page views a month across the network
  • 180+ destination guides worldwide
  • 2006 online since

We are part of the My Guide Network

My Guide Argentina is part of the global My Guide Network of Online & Mobile travel guides. We are now in 180+ Destinations and Growing.

Nearby Destinations

Add to your trip

Add your travel dates so we can place this on the right day, or save it for later.