The King Crab Route & Penguin Watching

The experience

We depart from Ushuaia along National Route N° 3, crossing the vast Fuegian valleys and enjoying a landscape surrounded by mountains, peat bogs, forests, and winter centers. Along the way, we make a panoramic stop to admire the surroundings and capture these unique views in photos. Further ahead, we take Provincial Route J, entering a picturesque road surrounded by ancient forests as we head south toward the coast of the Beagle Channel.

Once there, we are amazed by impressive panoramic views where the sea, the Andes, and the forest come together. Along the Beagle Channel, we can observe marine production areas, such as mussel farming buoys, working boats, and king crab traps. In this region, king crab is known as “red gold.” Following the coastal road, locally known as “The King Crab Route,” we approach the fishing village of Almanza, driving along its only main street until we reach the fishermen’s pier.

From the pier, one of the most special experiences of the journey begins: a navigation aboard a semi-rigid zodiac-style boat. For approximately one and a half hours, we sail through a narrow arm of the channel, surrounded by an impressive natural landscape, until we reach the penguin island. There, we stop to observe and learn about the charming Magellanic and Gentoo penguins, enjoying an unforgettable experience in a wild natural setting.

Finally, we visit a local fisherman’s restaurant to enjoy a delicious lunch prepared with fresh regional products. Surrounded by conversation, Fuegian flavors, and pleasant moments, we share our experiences before returning to the city, taking with us unique memories of this encounter with the coast, wildlife, and gastronomy at the end of the world.