Isla Damas

A small island reserve accessible by boat from Punta de Choros, home to Humboldt penguins, sea otters, and numerous seabird species. It's one of the region's premier wildlife viewing destinations.

Things to do

• Humboldt Penguin Watching — Observe the endangered Humboldt penguins in their natural habitat, particularly during breeding season when they're most active on the island's rocky shores.
• Sea Otter Spotting — Look for the rare Chilean sea otters swimming near the kelp forests surrounding the island, one of the last remaining populations in South America.
• Seabird Photography Tour — Capture images of cormorants, gulls, terns, and other seabirds that nest and feed around the island's coastal cliffs.
• Guided Boat Circuit Around the Island — Take a ranger-led boat tour departing from Punta de Choros that circles the island for comprehensive wildlife viewing and geological interpretation.
• Kelp Forest Exploration — Observe the underwater ecosystem of giant kelp forests that support the island's marine biodiversity from designated viewpoints or glass-bottom boat views.
• Rock Formation Study — Examine the island's dramatic granite and basalt rock formations that create protected coves and nesting sites for wildlife.

Food to try

• Fresh Ceviche from Punta de Choros — Experience locally-caught fish ceviche prepared with lime juice and local ingredients at restaurants in the nearby fishing village of Punta de Choros.
• Empanadas de Mariscos — Try seafood-filled pastries featuring local catches like sea urchin, clams, or fish, commonly sold at Punta de Choros before boat departures.
• Caldillo de Congrio — Sample this traditional Chilean fish soup made with conger eel and vegetables, reflecting the region's strong seafaring heritage.
• Ulva Salad — Taste dishes featuring edible seaweed harvested from the Coquimbo coast, often prepared as a fresh salad or side dish.
• Picoroco — Try these large Chilean crustaceans, similar to barnacles, steamed or boiled and served as a delicacy in local coastal restaurants.

Local customs & good to know

• Book Tours in Advance — Reserve your boat tour through authorized operators in Punta de Choros the day before, as visitor numbers are regulated to protect the reserve.
• Respect Wildlife Distance — Maintain the required distance from animals as instructed by guides; unauthorized approach to nesting sites or animals is prohibited and can disturb breeding cycles.
• Bring Sun Protection — The island offers no shade and sits in the direct South Pacific sun, so bring high SPF sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses to avoid severe burns during the boat journey.
• Support Local Boat Operators — Use locally-licensed operators from Punta de Choros rather than third-party tour companies to ensure revenue supports conservation efforts and local communities.