Summer wildlife in Ushuaia, penguins in sight!

Summer wildlife in Ushuaia: the incredible moment when thousands of penguins arrive at Martillo Island

Summer in Ushuaia is one of the most fascinating times for those who wish to discover the wildlife of Tierra del Fuego at its best. Between December and March, thousands of penguins arrive at Isla Martillo, making the classic penguin excursion a unique experience in the world.. Seeing how they coexist with other birds and learning about their life cycle is, without a doubt, one of the must-see attractions of the summer season in Tierra del Fuego.

Here we tell you why summer is the best time to experience this adventure, what species can be observed and how to complement the visit with other emblematic excursions in Ushuaia.

¿Why summer is the best time to see penguins in Ushuaia?

During the austral summer, penguins choose the Fuegian coasts to breed, nest and feed their young. During this period, the colony of Hammer Island reaches its highest concentration, offering an unparalleled opportunity to observe them at very close range.

A unique natural spectacle in Argentina

While in winter a large part of the colony migrates to warmer waters, between December and March the island is full of life: adults, juveniles, newborn chicks and dozens of shorebirds living around the nests.

The excursion to Isla Martillo allows a close look at their daily behaviour:

• how they build nests
• how they feed their chicks
• how they interact with each other
• how they defend their territory

This level of proximity is unique in the country and makes the Pinguinera one of the most sought after experiences by travellers from all over the world, along with the better known experience of sailing the Beagle Channel, with its enchanting lighthouse full of legendary myths.

What species of penguins can be seen at Isla Martillo

Isla Martillo is one of the few places on the planet where two species of penguins live together on a stable basis. This makes the excursion even more special for those who love wildlife and photography.

Magellanic Penguin: the most numerous inhabitant of Magellanic Penguins

It is the most abundant species in summer. Magellanic birds arrive in large groups from September, nest in burrows and remain on the island until March. During the activity it is common to see adults entering and leaving their nests or pairs caring for their young.

Papua Penguin: the rare jewel of the Beagle Channel

Much less common and easily recognisable by their orange beak and gait. It is the only breeding colony of Papua penguins in all of Argentina, so photographing them here is a privilege that very few destinations offer.

Other birds and fauna accompanying the route

In addition to penguins, it is possible to see penguins in summer:

• Skuas
• Cooking gulls
• Cormorants
• Petrels
• Sea lions in the distance
• Even, occasionally, Commerson's dolphins in navigation.

This combination makes the Pinguinera a perfect excursion for nature and wildlife lovers.

What a penguin tour is like: from sailing to penguin spotting

The complete experience combines navigation on the Beagle Channel with the disembarkation at Isla Martillo. Along the way you will see lighthouses, mountains, sea lions and cormorants, which makes the journey as attractive as the arrival on the island.

Scenic sailing on the Beagle

The tour includes views of the Les Eclaireurs LighthouseThe Bridges Islands and the natural environment that characterises this region at the southern tip of the continent. Summer, in this natural environment, offers more pleasant temperatures than in previous months, showing the best of these cold lands full of charm.

Once on Martillo Island, the group goes on a sighting supervised by specialised guides who guarantee the safety of the visitors and the protection of the fauna. The proximity to the animals allows for incredible photographs to be taken without altering their behaviour.

Tips for enjoying the Pinguinera in summer

¿What to bring?

In order to enjoy the excursion in total comfort, it is advisable to carry a windbreaker jacket, cap or hood, comfortable footwear, sunscreen and a camera or mobile phone with good battery to make the most of every moment of the tour. It is important to bear in mind that this is an activity for all ages, wildlife watching is an educational and interesting experience for all groups of travellers who want to get to know the Beagle Channel in all its splendour.

To get to know even more of these latitudes, it is important to see if the excursions can be combined in order to optimise travel times and have a better organisation: To see the elegant penguins and a good combination of native flora, we recommend a tour that also includes the Tierra del Fuego National Park.

Ushuaia's summer weather and how to make the most of it

Summer in Tierra del Fuego offers ideal conditions for exploring the region in comfort. Between December and March, temperatures usually range between 10°C and 18°C, with milder days, less rainfall and a thermal amplitude that allows you to enjoy long walks without the cold characteristic of winter. In addition, the days are longer, with natural light extending into the late afternoon, providing more time for hiking trails, sailing the Beagle Channel or adventure excursions.

The mild temperatures make summer the ideal time to visit lagoons, forests, beaches of the Beagle Channel and, of course, see penguins on Martillo Island.

Taking advantage of this pleasant climate is a perfect way to discover the natural diversity of Ushuaia and experience a summer season full of unique landscapes, wildlife in its splendour and unforgettable experiences at the End of the World.Contact us and meet the kings of the Beagle Channel!