Magdalena Island, Protected wildlife island in Punta Arenas, Chile
Magdalena Island is a protected wildlife area in the Strait of Magellan near Punta Arenas, rising approximately 26 meters above sea level. The site features rocky shores and low vegetation that create nesting grounds for seabirds.
A lighthouse was built on the island in 1902 to guide ships safely through the strait. This structure marked the beginning of organized maritime safety measures in this remote region.
The island functions as an important breeding ground where visitors witness thousands of birds engaging in natural behaviors across the rocky terrain. Local communities view this place as a symbol of the region's wild nature and scientific importance.
Visits are possible from September through April, and travelers should book tours in advance. The excursion lasts around four hours including transportation from Punta Arenas and requires appropriate clothing for windier conditions.
More than 120,000 penguins return each year between October and March to breed and raise their young. This concentration of birds creates a rare natural spectacle that can only be fully experienced during this window.
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