Isla Cachagua, Natural monument on Pacific coast in Zapallar, Chile

Isla Cachagua is a natural monument consisting of a small granite island off the coast of Zapallar that rises from the Pacific Ocean. The rocky terrain is home to various wildlife and forms a distinct ecosystem with the surrounding marine environment.

In 1979 Isla Cachagua was declared a nature sanctuary, and on 27 June 1989 it became a natural monument covering 4.5 hectares. The island lies in the commune of Zapallar, Petorca Province, about 100 m off the Cachagua beach resort and rises to roughly 30 m above sea level.

Locals call it Isla de los Pingüinos, and the islet lies just north of Cachagua beach, about 100 m off the shore. Boat trips run from the Caleta de Zapallar, weather permitting, circling the islet so passengers can photograph seabirds from the water; landing is not allowed.

Landing on the island is forbidden; it is reserved for research with prior authorisation from CONAF. Boat trips that circle the islet and allow photography of the seabirds can be hired at the Caleta de Zapallar when weather permits. The monument lies about 100 m off the northern end of Cachagua beach, reached by Ruta F-30-E.

The island is home to a large colony of Humboldt penguins that come ashore here to breed and rest. This species is found at only a handful of locations along the South American coast, making the site a vital habitat.