In Tierra del Fuego it is possible to see the world's second-biggest penguin, the King Penguin. The biggest one is found in Antarctica and is the Emperor penguin. Standing up, the King Penguin measures up to 1 meter (39 inches), and can weight up to 18 kg (40 lbs).

The private reserve "RESERVA NATURAL PINGÜINO REY" is the only one in South America, and provides a unique opportunity to observe and photograph these beautiful creatures.

Experience the penguins in their natural habitat

The reserve's habitat is their home, this is where they develop their life cycle naturally and freely. Their location depends on the reproductive status and weather, so some days they are closer and others further from the observation area. The observation area separates the penguin and the visitors by a big wall. This is to avoid stressing the penguins or interfering with their behavior. The minimum distance for observation is 50 meters, so bring binoculars and/or a camera with a good lens.

Interesting facts about the King penguin

Like the Emperor penguin, the King Penguin do not build nests, Instead, they stand upright, and incubate the egg on the top of their feet. Unlike the Emperor penguins, the King penguin parents take turns incubating the eggs. If the male’s body reserves become insufficient to sustain himself before the female returns, he will abandon the egg, and abandoned eggs are usually not replaced.

King penguins breed on many of the sub-Antarctic islands between 45° and 55°S. The reserve is located on 53°, and is one of the places where they come to breed.

King penguins walk slowly and do not hop. This is why their habitat is usually on islands or peninsulas with a more flat terrain.

Location

Bahía Inutil (Useless Bay) is located on the East side of the Tierra del Fuego island. There are two ways to get there: crossing with a ferry via the two villages on Tierra del Fuego: Porvenir or Sombrero, and then drive to the reserve.

When is it open for visitors:

During spring, summer and autum in Patagonia. To get the exact months and schedule, please check the website. You can organize the trip yourself by driving there, you just have to buy the tickets beforehand. The tickets can be bought directly on the reserve's website https://www.pinguinorey.com. You can also do an organized tour, there are many to choose from in Punta Arenas.

Photo credits: Aurora Fernandez