Humboldt National Penguin Reserve

It is located 114 kilometers northeast of La Serena and is an area of outstanding natural beauty with islands full of dolphins and unpolluted beaches. This reserve is one of the most beautiful attractions in Chile.

Its 859 hectares are visited each weekend by nature lovers attracted by its exotic marine life, rocky coasts and islands. An hour-long drive takes you to Punta de Choros, an emerging fishing town that has a wide range of restaurants, cabins, campsites and hotels. Punta de Choros is also a diving spot, and has at least two companies that teach scuba diving and rent equipment.

Once in Punta de Choros, the next step is to hire a boat and visit the main attractions of the reserve, Isla Damas, Isla Choros and Chañaral island. On the trip to the islands you can see dolphins, penguins, sea lions and various kinds of birds.

The landscape varies between the desert coast and the rocky coast. The islands have several mountains and beaches with turquoise water; among the highlights is Isla Damas, which has an area of 60.3 hectares. The water is quite cold due to the Humboldt Current. You can camp in the area for a few days after registration in the National Forestry Corporation, Conaf. It is essential to bring fresh water and all equipment needed for camping.

North of Punta de Choros is the Aceituno fishing wharf and the Chañaral island where unique marine life have made their homes, which is why visits to the island have been suspended.

How Much Do We Love This Place?

The Good

• Beautiful beaches
• Great nightlife during summer
• Close to Elqui Valley

The Bad

• Summer vacation destination, outside summer can be boring
• Crowded in the summer

Somewhere Special To Stay

HOTEL	FROM	iCATEGORY
Club La Serena	113 USD
Hotel de la Bahia	143 USD