Ancud and the Puñihuil Penguin Colony on Chiloé Island (full day from Puerto Varas)
Early departure to drive south and out toward the Pacific, where we cross the straights of Pargua by ferry to the Island of Chiloé. Upon arriving on the island we drive to Bay of Caulin. Here we can experience the fascination of untouched nature, silence and solitude. . Swans and other birds can be easily watched and when the tide is out you can search for shells and crawfish on the ground of the tideland – as the locals do. Afterwards we continue to the former capital Ancud. Here we shall take time to walk and explore. Rustic homes and traditional, colorful fishing boats offer ample photo opportunities in Ancud. We will look at the historic Spanish forts, and a wonderful market filled with local traders and artisans selling souvenirs. Chiloé is an island full of legends and superstition, and the locals whisper that century-old monsters roam the night and sail upon elaborately painted ghost ships, frightening even the bravest of fishermen. From Ancud we continue on to the northern coast of the island, where we visit the WWF World Wildlife Fund penguin colony, one of the few places where Magellan and Humboldt penguins live and breed together. A trip in a zodiac brings us amongst the small islands of the penguin rookeries. Depending on weather conditions, we might observe a sea lion colony as well. Arrival back in Puerto Varas late evening.
