Chile Scheduled Expedition
Juan Fernández Islands
Birding Expedition
April I 2027
October I 2027
TRIP TYPE
Scheduled
DURATION
9 days, 8 nights
DEPARTING FROM
Santiago
GROUP SIZE (MAX)
8 Guests
ABOUT THIS TRIP
Quest for Island Endemics of the southeast Pacific
A 9-day expedition to the remote Juan Fernández Archipelago, one of the world’s most extraordinary centers of island endemism. This journey explores both Robinson Crusoe and Alejandro Selkirk islands, combining exceptional birdwatching, pelagic wildlife encounters, and spectacular landscapes in one of the most isolated corners of the South Pacific.
From the lush forests of Robinson Crusoe Island to the rugged mountain ridges of Alejandro Selkirk, participants will explore a remarkable diversity of habitats while searching for species found nowhere else on Earth, like the iconic Juan Fernández Firecrown (Sephanoides fernandensis), Juan Fernández Tit-Tyrant (Anairetes fernandezianus), Masafuera Rayadito (Aphrastura masafuerae), and the endemic Juan Fernández Fur Seal (Arctocephalus philippi). The expedition also offers opportunities to observe endemic flora, including giant nalcas, endemic palms, and the beautiful Insularis Orchid (Gavilea insularis).
A series of pelagic crossings between the islands provides access to the rich marine ecosystems of the archipelago, where participants may encounter Stejneger’s Petrels (Pterodoma longirostris), Kermadec Petrels (Pterodroma neglecta), Masatierra Petrels (Pterodroma defilippiana), albatrosses, shearwaters, and marine mammals. Designed for birdwatchers, naturalists, photographers, and adventurous travelers, this small-group expedition offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience one of the most unique and least-visited island ecosystems on the planet.
PRICING
TBA
Per person, double occupancy · small groups of max 8 guests
rEADY FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP?
Itinerary in brief
Private flight from Santiago to Robinson Crusoe Island. The approximately 2.5-hour journey offers spectacular views of the vast South Pacific Ocean, providing a unique sense of the remoteness and isolation of the Juan Fernández Archipelago long before reaching the island. This scenic flight marks the beginning of an unforgettable expedition into one of the world's most remarkable oceanic island ecosystems.
Upon arrival on Robinson Crusoe Island, we will transfer to the coast and board a local boat for a scenic one-hour journey along the shoreline to the town of San Juan Bautista (sea level). This first navigation offers an excellent introduction to the archipelago's rich marine ecosystem, with opportunities to observe pelagic seabirds such as albatrosses and the Kermadec Petrel (Pterodroma neglecta), as well as marine mammals, including the endemic and iconic Juan Fernández Fur Seal (Arctocephalus philippi).
Upon reaching San Juan Bautista, we will check in at our hotel before beginning our first birding excursion. This introductory outing is designed to familiarize participants with the island's unique avifauna and their habitats. Exploring gardens, forest edges, and native vegetation around the town, we will search for some of the archipelago's most emblematic species, including the Juan Fernández Firecrown (Sephanoides fernandensis), Juan Fernández Tit-Tyrant (Anairetes fernandezianus), Green-backed Firecrown (Sephanoides sephanoides), Austral Thrush (Turdus falcklandii magellanicus).
Morning walking into Juan Fernández Archipelago National Park, following the trail to El Yunque (260 m a.s.l.), the highest peak on Robinson Crusoe Island. This scenic hike traverses pristine native forests characterized by giant nalcas (Gunnera sp.), endemic palms (Juania australis), canelo trees (Drimys confertifolia), lush woodland vegetation, and historic naturalized orange groves.
El Yunque provides one of the best opportunities to experience the island's remarkable biodiversity and observe its endemic birdlife in a natural setting. Throughout the hike, we will search for species such as the Juan Fernández Firecrown, Juan Fernández Tit-Tyrant, Austral Thrush, Green-backed Firecrown, and the elusive Short-eared Owl (Asio flammeus). Surrounded by spectacular scenery and native vegetation, this excursion offers an exceptional introduction to the unique ecosystems that make the Juan Fernández Archipelago one of the world's most important centers of island endemism.
In the afternoon, we will hike to the Selkirk Viewpoint (380 m a.s.l), one of the most spectacular points on Robinson Crusoe Island. This excursion combines natural history, breathtaking scenery, and the fascinating story of Alexander Selkirk, the Scottish sailor whose years of isolation on the island inspired Daniel Defoe's classic novel Robinson Crusoe. Along the route, we will visit sites associated with Selkirk's time on the island and learn about his remarkable survival in one of the most remote corners of the Pacific.
The viewpoint offers panoramic views across both sides of Robinson Crusoe Island, showcasing the dramatic contrast between two distinct ecosystems. To the west, the landscape slopes toward the airstrip and is characterized by drier, more open vegetation. In contrast, the island's higher elevations are covered by lush cloud forests and dense native vegetation, creating a striking transition between habitats.
Early morning departure aboard a local boat for a full-day pelagic crossing to Alejandro Selkirk Island. The voyage takes approximately 6–8 hours, depending on sea conditions, and offers excellent opportunities to observe pelagic seabirds and marine mammals in the rich waters of the Juan Fernández Archipelago. Target species include Stejneger's Petrel, White-bellied Storm Petrel (Fregetta grallaria), along with the possibility of encountering beaked whales and other cetaceans.
Upon arrival, we will reach Rada La Colonia (sea level), the island's only settlement and gateway to the remote wilderness of Alejandro Selkirk.
After breakfast on Day 4, the expedition begins the ascent from Rada La Colonia to La Cuchara Camp (1,090 m a.s.l.), located at approximately 1,000 meters above sea level in the rugged mountains of Alejandro Selkirk Island. To make the hike more comfortable, the main luggage and camping equipment are transported by local porters, allowing participants to walk with only a light daypack.
The trail climbs through some of the island's most pristine and remote habitats, offering excellent opportunities to discover its unique biodiversity. Along the way, we will explore native forests and search for a variety of birds and endemic plants, including the beautiful Insularis Orchid (Gavilea insularis), one of the archipelago's most remarkable botanical treasures, as well as tree ferns (Dicksonia externa).
Upon arrival at La Cuchara, you will find the camp already set up, with tents, sleeping mats, and inflatable mattresses. The camp is located near a ranger station, which serves as a base for meals and expedition logistics.
The remainder of Day 4 and the entire Day 5 will be dedicated to searching for the Masafuera Rayadito (Aphrastura masafuerae). We will ascend approximately 300 meters above camp into the high-altitude forests where this rare endemic species occurs, maximizing our chances of encountering one of the world's most threatened passerines. These excursions will also provide opportunities to observe the island's unique flora, other endemic birds, and spectacular mountain scenery.
The morning will be devoted to a final search for the Masafuera Rayadito, focusing on the high-altitude forests around La Cuchara and providing one last opportunity to encounter this exceptionally rare endemic species in its natural habitat.
Later in the day, we will relocate to Fardelarios Camp, transferring all tents and camping equipment from La Cuchara (1,090 mts). After dinner, we will undertake a nocturnal excursion to observe Pink-footed Shearwaters (Ardenna creatopus) returning to their nesting colonies under the cover of darkness.
Morning descent from Fardelarios Camp to Rada La Colonia. After lunch in the settlement, we will board the boat for the return crossing to Robinson Crusoe Island. The voyage offers additional opportunities for pelagic birding and marine mammal observations in the waters of the Juan Fernández Archipelago.
After several days of intensive exploration in search of the archipelago's unique wildlife, flora, and birdlife, this day is left free for participants to relax and enjoy the island at their own pace.
Optional activities, arranged independently and at the participant's own expense, may include hiking, exploring the village and surrounding trails, diving, snorkeling, or simply enjoying the unique atmosphere of San Juan Bautista and Robinson Crusoe Island.
After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip for the scheduled flight back to Santiago.
End of the expedition. We hope this journey has provided unforgettable encounters with some of the world's rarest endemic birds and the spectacular landscapes of the Juan Fernández Archipelago.
WHAT MAKES THIS TRIP SPECIAL
Trip Highlights
Explore both Robinson Crusoe and Alejandro Selkirk, the two principal islands of the remote Juan Fernández Archipelago, one of the world's most extraordinary centers of island endemism.
Search for some of the world's rarest endemic birds, including the Masafuera Rayadito (Aphrastura masafuerae), Juan Fernández Firecrown (Sephanoides fernandensis), and Juan Fernández Tit-Tyrant (Anairetes fernandezianus).
Observe the endemic Juan Fernández Fur Seal (Arctocephalus philippi) in its natural habitat along the island's rugged coastline — one of the most iconic marine mammals of the archipelago.
Wander through ancient forests of giant tree ferns and endemic Canelo woodlands, creating a spectacular Jurassic-like landscape found nowhere else on Earth.
Enjoy pelagic crossings between islands with opportunities to encounter Stejneger's Petrel, Kermadec Petrel, Juan Fernandez Petrel, White-bellied Storm Petrel, Masatierra Petrel, albatrosses, shearwaters, and possibilities to see Beaked Whales.
Hike through the native forests of El Yunque Hill, surrounded by giant nalcas, endemic palms (Juania australis), canelo trees (Drimys confertifolia), and unique island flora found only in this archipelago.
Visit the historic Selkirk Viewpoint and learn about the extraordinary story of Alexander Selkirk, the Scottish sailor whose years of isolation inspired Daniel Defoe's classic novel Robinson Crusoe.
PLAN YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE
Dates & Rates
PRICE PER PERSON
TBA
Based on double occupancy · All payments in US Dollars
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
TBA USD
Departures
Group Size:
Trips are guaranteed to depart with a group size of 8 participants. The above price is per person in USD, based on double occupancy. All payments are in US Dollars. Single supplement will be added if single accommodations are requested.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Trip inclusions & exclusions
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- All accommodations
- All meals as stated in the itinerary
- Expert guide services throughout
- Private ground transportation during the tour
- Boat trips to Francisco Coloane Marine Park
- Two ferry rides
- Park entrance fees
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
- Domestic flights (add app. $300 for 3 in-country flight packages)
- Tipping for restaurants and guides
- Travel insurance
- Entrance tax to Chile
- Excess baggage charges
- À la carte dishes, snacks, drinks
- Laundry, telephone calls
- Anything of a purely personal nature
GALLERY
Wildlife & landscapes






Need help planning?
Our team is ready to answer your questions and help you prepare for this unforgettable expedition.