DEHUROEN

Plizio Visual Lab

Humboldt Penguin National Reserve

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Animal habitat
—°9
Humboldt Penguin National Reserve (Chile)

Weather…

The Humboldt Penguin National Reserve is located on the border between the Atacama and Coquimbo regions in northern Chile. It consists of three main islands: Chañaral, Choros, and Damas, which together cover an area of about 860 hectares of land plus the surrounding marine area. The reserve was established in 1990 to protect the Humboldt penguin, which maintains one of its most globally significant breeding colonies here. Geographically, the region is characterized by dry coastal landscapes and nutrient-rich seawater cooled by the Humboldt Current. Besides the penguins, the protected area hosts a resident colony of bottlenose dolphins, as well as sea lions, marine otters, and numerous seabirds. The ecosystem is highly sensitive to climatic fluctuations such as El Niño and industrial influences in the vicinity. Visitor access is strictly regulated, with landings only allowed on Damas Island under the supervision of the forest authority CONAF to avoid disturbing the animals' reproductive cycles.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C202019171513131314161718
Rain mm1112152117113311

📋 Practical info

📅
Best season
The best time to observe Humboldt penguins is the Chilean summer from December to March, when they breed and raise chicks. During this period, penguin colonies are most active and boat tours run regularly.
🌅
Best time of day
Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for boat trips, as penguins are most active on shore and swimming then. Midday heat often drives animals into shade or water.
📜
Etiquette
Always keep distance from penguin colonies and stay on designated paths and viewing platforms. Landing on the islands is not allowed, and boats must maintain a minimum distance to avoid disturbing the animals.
🎒
What to bring
Binoculars are essential for observing penguins and other seabirds from a distance. Pack a waterproof jacket for the boat trip, as well as sun protection and image-stabilized binoculars for steady views.
🧭
Getting there
The reserve is accessible only by boat, with tours departing from the cities of Caldera or Chañaral. The journey takes about 1 to 2 hours depending on destination; book in advance with a licensed operator.
🦌
What to expect
Penguins can be shy and hide in rock crevices - take your time and scan the coastline carefully. The boat trip itself also has opportunities to spot sea lions and other marine life.

Geography

Coordinates
-29.24000, -71.55000

Facts

  • The reserve hosts approximately 80% of the global Humboldt penguin population.
  • The establishment of the protected area took place on January 3, 1990.
  • Chañaral Island is the largest of the three islands, covering 507 hectares.
  • Blue whales and humpback whales can also be spotted seasonally in the waters.
  • Punta de Choros is the main starting point for boat trips to the reserve.
  • Water temperatures are constant between 13 and 15 degrees Celsius.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Port of CoquimboPort of Coquimbo35 km · NWExplore →
TongoyTongoy36 km · WExplore →
GuanaquerosGuanaqueros37 km · NWExplore →
La SerenaLa Serena41 km · NWExplore →
Port of GuacoldaPort of Guacolda43 km · NEExplore →
Limarí ValleyLimarí Valley62 km · NWExplore →
Los VilosLos Vilos94 km · WExplore →
Elqui ValleyElqui Valley98 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Humboldt Penguin National Reserve (9)

Playa La Ventana🌿 nature

The Playa La Ventana viewpoint overlooks the pristine sandy shore and the sparkling waters of the Humboldt Penguin National Reserve area.

Los Choros Community Beach📍 landmark

Los Choros Community Beach serves as a coastal attraction where visitors often begin their boat tours to see the penguins.

Faro Punta de Choros📍 landmark

The Faro Punta de Choros is a coastal lighthouse guiding local fishing boats and tour vessels navigating the protected waters.

Reserva Marina Islas Choros - Damas🌿 nature

This marine reserve protects the rich coastal waters surrounding the Choros and Damas islands, a haven for dolphins and seabirds.

Playa las tijeras🎡 recreation

Playa las Tijeras is a scenic beach on Damas Island known for its extraordinarily white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

Playa Punta de Choros🎡 recreation

Playa Punta de Choros is an extended sandy shore serving as the primary launching point for expeditions to the nearby islands.

Playa Barrancas🎡 recreation

Playa Barrancas is a quiet, natural beach characterized by gentle dunes and rugged coastal surroundings.

Bien Nacional Protegido Isla Gaviota🌿 nature

Isla Gaviota is a protected national nature reserve, serving as a critical nesting site for marine birds in the region.

CapilLa San Agustín📍 landmark

Capilla San Agustín is a small, traditional Christian chapel providing a place of worship for the local coastal inhabitants.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What animals can you see in the Reserva Pingüino de Humboldt?
Humboldt penguins, sea lions, sea otters, and with luck, bottlenose dolphins.
How do you get to the islands?
From Punta de Choros, fishing boats depart for guided tours around Choros and Damas islands.
Are you allowed to walk on the islands?
Landing and short hiking on marked trails is only allowed on Isla Damas to avoid disturbing the animals.
What is the best time for tours?
Mornings are usually calmer, making the boat ride more pleasant and improving dolphin spotting.
Should you bring a change of clothes?
Yes, it can get windy and wet on the boats. A windproof jacket is highly recommended.
Humboldt Penguin National Reserve: where is it located?
Humboldt Penguin National Reserve is located in Chile.
Humboldt Penguin National Reserve: what is there to see?
Highlights include Playa La Ventana, Los Choros Community Beach, Faro Punta de Choros.
Humboldt Penguin National Reserve: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Humboldt Penguin National Reserve: why is it worth visiting?
The Humboldt Penguin National Reserve is located on the border between the Atacama and Coquimbo regions in northern Chile.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
South America
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in South America
More places in Chile →

Nearby cities

Tongoy — Humboldt Penguin National Reserve (Chile)
Tongoy
A picturesque coastal town renowned for its large bays, beautiful beaches, and extensive oyster farming industry.
Guanaqueros — Humboldt Penguin National Reserve (Chile)
Guanaqueros
Guanaqueros is a traditional fishing village and popular summer destination known for its long, calm bay and exceptional seafood.
La Serena — Humboldt Penguin National Reserve (Chile)
La Serena
Chile's second oldest city, known for its Spanish colonial architecture, beautiful churches, and long sandy beaches.

More places

Port of Coquimbo — Humboldt Penguin National Reserve (Chile)
Port of Coquimbo
A significant port for fruit and mining exports in the Coquimbo Region.
Limarí Valley — Humboldt Penguin National Reserve (Chile)
Limarí Valley
A fertile river valley in the semi-arid north of Chile, known as the 'Green North', appreciated for the cultivation of avocados, grapes, …
Elqui Valley — Humboldt Penguin National Reserve (Chile)
Elqui Valley
A fertile valley on the edge of the Atacama Desert, known for papaya plantations and producing grapes for the national drink, Pisco.
Los Pelambres Mine — Humboldt Penguin National Reserve (Chile)
Los Pelambres Mine
A major copper mine in the Coquimbo Region known for its massive reserves.
Port of Guacolda — Humboldt Penguin National Reserve (Chile)
Port of Guacolda
A specialized port in the Atacama Region, mainly handling coal and mining materials.