Ushuaia Half day: Martillo Island a Unique Penguin Encounter
Ushuaia, Argentina

Ushuaia Half day: Martillo Island a Unique Penguin Encounter

Outty Ranking 46 5.0 · 2 traveler reviews6.2 hoursFrom $250
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Outty Ranking

46/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 2 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Ushuaia Half day: Martillo Island a Unique Penguin Encounter worth booking?

Ushuaia Half day: Martillo Island a Unique Penguin Encounter is a 6.2-hour experience in Ushuaia, Argentina, from $250 per person. It scores 46 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 5/5 rating across 2 reviews. This booking is non-refundable, so pick your date carefully. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
46 / 100
Rating
5/5 (2)
Duration
6.2 hours
From
$250 per person

An unforgettable journey from Ushuaia to Puerto Almanza, traveling along scenic Route 3 As we make our way through Tierra del Fuego, you’ll enjoy breathtaking landscapes of mountains, native forests, rivers, and the surroundings of the Beagle Channel. Once in Puerto Almanza, we’ll board a boat and navigate the Beagle Channel toward the famous Martillo Island. The highlight of the experience is the opportunity to observe these beautiful animals from the boat, without landing on the island. During approximately 40 minutes of wildlife viewing, the penguins can often approach the boat and swim around it, sometimes coming remarkably close. This creates a truly special opportunity to observe their natural behavior, take beautiful photographs, and enjoy an intimate encounter with the colony in its natural habitat. After the penguin viewing, we’ll return by boat to Puerto Almanza, where you’ll have a moment to relax and enjoy a coffee and alfajor before traveling back to Ushuaia by bus.

What you get

    About this experience

    An unforgettable journey from Ushuaia to Puerto Almanza, traveling along scenic Route 3 As we make our way through Tierra del Fuego, you’ll enjoy breathtaking landscapes of mountains, native forests, rivers, and the surroundings of the Beagle Channel. Once in Puerto Almanza, we’ll board a boat and navigate the Beagle Channel toward the famous Martillo Island. The highlight of the experience is the opportunity to observe these beautiful animals from the boat, without landing on the island. During approximately 40 minutes of wildlife viewing, the penguins can often approach the boat and swim around it, sometimes coming remarkably close. This creates a truly special opportunity to observe their natural behavior, take beautiful photographs, and enjoy an intimate encounter with the colony in its natural habitat. After the penguin viewing, we’ll return by boat to Puerto Almanza, where you’ll have a moment to relax and enjoy a coffee and alfajor before traveling back to Ushuaia by bus.

    What's included

    Included

    • Do not consider the time on the default voucher; the actual time will be confirmed by the agency
    • English and Spanish speaking professional guides
    • Snack: Coffee, tea, or hot chocolate , also homemade croissant
    • Transportation: Round-trip by bus from the tourist dock to Puerto Almanza
    • Boat tour for penguin watching, 40 minutes in front of Martillo Island

    Not included

    • No pick-up from the hotel.
    • Visitors cannot disembark on the island; penguin watching will be from the boat

    What you'll see and do

    1. Canal Beagle

      From this delightful port, we’ll board a custom semi-rigid boat with a capacity for 22 passengers. We’ll sail for 30 minutes through the serene waters of the Beagle Channel, heading toward the famous Martillo Island. This magical place is home to a colony of Gentoo and Magellanic penguins, offering an unforgettable experience.

      30 minutes here

    2. Ushuaia

      Aboard our comfortable buses, we’ll head north along the iconic National Route N°3. Along the way, we’ll take a short break to delve into the rich history of the region before continuing on the picturesque Provincial Route "J." Our destination: Puerto Almanza, a charming fishing village located 70 km from Ushuaia.

      300 minutes here

    3. Martillo Island

      We’ll enjoy 40 minutes of observation from the boat, getting close enough to admire their behavior in their natural habitat—a moment that will leave a lasting impression. Afterward, we’ll return to Puerto Almanza, where you can relax and recharge before heading back to Ushuaia.

      40 minutes here · Admission not included

    4. Ushuaia Cruise Port

      IMPORTANT INFORMATION: Please be advised that the default time published for this tour is 2:30 PM. However, depending on availability at the time of your booking, you will be sent the specific tour time. Availability may vary between the following time slots: 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 2:30 PM, and 4:00 PM. Please note that the meeting time at the pier is always 30 minutes prior to the tour departure. Thank you for your understanding

      Pass by without stopping

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Ushuaia

    Passengers must present themselves at the tourist pier in Ushuaia.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    Passengers must present themselves at the tourist pier in Ushuaia.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
    Languages
    en, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 22 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Azul Latina Travel

    Know before you go

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Visitors cannot disembark on the island; penguin watching will be from the boat
    • Appropriate clothing: Thermal clothing, waterproof jacket + fleece, hiking shoes, gloves, warm hat, and sunglasses. An extra pair of socks
    • Meeting point: Ushuaia Tourist Dock.
    • Passengers must arrive 30 minutes before the bus departure time. It is important to wait for the itinerary that will be sent by the agency upon receiving your reservation. This will allow us to confirm the available departure time.
    • IMPORTANT INFORMATION: Please be advised that the default time published for this tour is 2:30 PM. However, depending on availability at the time of your booking, you will be sent the specific tour time. Availability may vary between the following time slots: 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 2:30 PM, and 4:00 PM. Please note that the meeting time at the pier is always 30 minutes prior to the tour departure. Thank you for your understanding.
    • Please be advised that in order to book this tour, you must have the entire day available, as we will not know the available departure time until we receive your reservation. The specific departure time will be provided in the confirmation of your booking, once you receive the itinerary from the agency.
    • From March to October, Magellanic penguins migrate, and only Papuas Penguins remain on the island. They are incredibly beautiful creatures and can be distinguished from Magellanic penguins as the Papuas Penguin is larger, with a red-orange beak and a white band across the top of its head, while the Magellanic penguin has a double black band on its chest and a darker, more classic appearance.
    • The departure may be scheduled either in the morning or in the afternoon. Please note that even if you select a specific time when making your booking, the final departure time will be confirmed based on availability at the time we receive your booking. For this reason, please wait for the agency’s confirmation before assuming the exact departure time of your service.

    Photos

    Ushuaia Half day: Martillo Island a Unique Penguin Encounter, photo 2Ushuaia Half day: Martillo Island a Unique Penguin Encounter, photo 3Ushuaia Half day: Martillo Island a Unique Penguin Encounter, photo 4Ushuaia Half day: Martillo Island a Unique Penguin Encounter, photo 5Ushuaia Half day: Martillo Island a Unique Penguin Encounter, photo 6Ushuaia Half day: Martillo Island a Unique Penguin Encounter, photo 7

    Traveler reviews

    2 verified traveler reviews for Ushuaia Half day: Martillo Island a Unique Penguin Encounter. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
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    Larry_S · January 2026

    The boat brings you right...

    The boat brings you right up to the shore and the penguins are only a few feet away. A beautiful view and picture opportunity. The staff were great. Bring some added layers to put on ahead of the boat ride. It is breezy and cool.

    via Viator

    Danilo F · January 2026

    Exciting

    Alternative walking tour among the penguins, something that must be booked 6 months in advance because it is only operated by a single company accredited by the Argentine environmental authorities. Our tour was by van to Puerto Almanza, a fishing colony at 1:30h from Ushiaia, from there takes a boat that sails 30 min through the Beagle canal and arrives on the banks of the beach of Isla Martillo, one of which the penguins use to bread in the summer. But you can't land, just watch. There's 30 minutes for photos and then comes back. I highly recommend this attraction, offered by any agency.

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    Good to know

    Duration
    6.2 hours
    Free cancellation
    Non-refundable
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    1
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Azul Latina Travel, who run 59 experiences we rank across 7 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 44.5.

    See everything Azul Latina Travel runs

    Why this scores 46

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)75
    Review evidence (18% weight)20
    Booking momentum (14% weight)15
    Value for money (12% weight)43
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)54
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)0

    Ushuaia Half day: Martillo Island a Unique Penguin Encounter: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Ushuaia.

    How much does Ushuaia Half day: Martillo Island a Unique Penguin Encounter cost?

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    Prices start at $250 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Ushuaia usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Ushuaia Half day: Martillo Island a Unique Penguin Encounter take?

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    Plan for about 6.2 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Ushuaia is not rushed.

    Is Ushuaia Half day: Martillo Island a Unique Penguin Encounter worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 46 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 2 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable culture & history in Ushuaia, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Ushuaia Half day: Martillo Island a Unique Penguin Encounter?

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    No. This experience is sold on a non-refundable basis, so only book a date you are confident about. Similar experiences in the city do offer free cancellation if flexibility matters more than price.

    Is Ushuaia Half day: Martillo Island a Unique Penguin Encounter suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 6.2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Ushuaia Half day: Martillo Island a Unique Penguin Encounter?

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    Around 1 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Ushuaia can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

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    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Ushuaia and add a light layer if any part of the 6.2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Ushuaia Half day: Martillo Island a Unique Penguin Encounter start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Ushuaia within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Ushuaia?

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    On Outty we rank every Ushuaia experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Vinciguerra Glacier Trekking and Premium Floe Lagoon, King Crab Route 4WD Off Road with lunch in Puerto Almanza, Tierra del Fuego National Park – Small Groups. Optional Train. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Ushuaia?

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    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Ushuaia?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Ushuaia Half day: Martillo Island a Unique Penguin Encounter?

    +

    Included: Do not consider the time on the default voucher; the actual time will be confirmed by the; English and Spanish speaking professional guides; Snack: Coffee, tea, or hot chocolate , also homemade croissant; Transportation: Round-trip by bus from the tourist dock to Puerto Almanza; and Boat tour for penguin watching, 40 minutes in front of Martillo Island. Not included: No pick-up from the hotel; and Visitors cannot disembark on the island; penguin watching will be from the boat. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Ushuaia Half day: Martillo Island a Unique Penguin Encounter?

    +

    Passengers must present themselves at the tourist pier in Ushuaia. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Ushuaia Half day: Martillo Island a Unique Penguin Encounter offered in?

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    It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Ushuaia Half day: Martillo Island a Unique Penguin Encounter?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Ushuaia Half day: Martillo Island a Unique Penguin Encounter wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Ushuaia Half day: Martillo Island a Unique Penguin Encounter if the weather is bad?

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    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

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