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).

Juan Fernández Firecrown Juan Fernández Tit-Tyrant Juan Fernández Fur Seal Kermadec Petrel San Juan Bautista
Overnight: San Juan Bautista Town – Lunch, Dinner

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.

0 to 380 m / 0 to 1,250 ft
El Yunque Selkirk Viewpoint Endemic Palms Short-eared Owl National Park
Overnight: San Juan Bautista Town – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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.

Stejneger's Petrel White-bellied Storm Petrel Beaked Whales Pelagic Crossing Alejandro Selkirk
Overnight: Rada La Colonia – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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.

1,000 to 1,400 m / 3,280 to 4,600 ft
Masafuera Rayadito La Cuchara Camp Insularis Orchid Tree Ferns High-altitude Forests
Overnight: La Cuchara Camp – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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.

Masafuera Rayadito Fardelarios Camp Pink-footed Shearwater Nocturnal Excursion
Overnight: Fardelarios Camp – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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.

Pelagic Birding Rada La Colonia Robinson Crusoe Island
Overnight: San Juan Bautista Town – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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.

San Juan Bautista Optional Activities Hiking Diving Snorkeling
Overnight: San Juan Bautista Town – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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.

Santiago End of Trip Breakfast
Transfer: Airstrip to Santiago – Breakfast
WHAT MAKES THIS TRIP SPECIAL

Trip Highlights​

01
Two Principal Islands

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.

02
Rarest Endemic Birds on Earth

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).

03
Endemic Juan Fernández Fur Seal

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.

04
Jurassic-Like Ancient Forests

Wander through ancient forests of giant tree ferns and endemic Canelo woodlands, creating a spectacular Jurassic-like landscape found nowhere else on Earth.

05
Pelagic Crossings & Seabirds

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.

06
El Yunque Hill Hike

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.

07
Selkirk Viewpoint & Historic Legacy

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

Apr I 2027

9 Days · Max 8 guests

Oct I 2027

9 Days · Max 8 guests

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

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

Booking Information
Trip Registration
To secure your reservation for this trip, please fill out our online registration form. Upon receipt, an initial deposit of 30% of the total trip cost will be requested. The settlement of the remaining balance must be completed no later than 90 days before the departure date.
Currency
US Dollars
WeTravel
Credit Cards
Bank Transfer
Available
In either case, the commissions are to be assumed by the client.
Cancellation Policy
To cancel a booking, provide written notice to Far South Expeditions. The cancellation becomes official on the date received.
120+ days before departure
A refund of 70% of the deposit will be issued.
119 – 91 days before
Deposit remains non-refundable, further payments returned in full.
90 days or fewer prior to the departure date
No refund of any kind is available.
Applies to all pre-tour and post-tour extensions. Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended.
Important Advisory
Weather Considerations
Ferry & Boat Trips
All ferry crossings and boat trips are subject to change due to Patagonian weather. Delays or cancellations may alter your itinerary.
King Penguin Reserve
The reserve may be closed if mandated by authorities or during severe weather with winds exceeding 90 km/h.
Reminder: Kindly ensure the final balance is settled by the due date to maintain your reservation. We appreciate your patience and flexibility in all circumstances.

Need help planning?

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

TRIP MAP

Route overview

1
Santiago
33.4489° S, 70.6693° W · Arturo Merino Benitez Airport
1
Robinson Crusoe Island · Arrival & Birding
Days 1 – 2
Santiago
33.4489° S, 70.6693° W · Arturo Merino Benitez Airport
Day 1 Meeting & flight to Robinson Crusoe
Robinson Crusoe Island
33.6400° S, 78.8500° W · Juan Fernandez Archipelago
Day 1 Arrival & boat trip to San Juan Bautista
San Juan Bautista
33.6370° S, 78.8260° W · Main settlement
Days 1 – 2 Hotel base · Firecrown & Tit-Tyrant
El Yunque Hill
33.6400° S, 78.8600° W · 260m a.s.l.
Day 2 Native forests · Endemic birding
Selkirk Viewpoint
33.6450° S, 78.8300° W · 380m a.s.l.
Day 2 Alexander Selkirk history · Panoramic views
2
Alejandro Selkirk Island · Pelagic & Rayadito
Days 3 – 6
Pelagic Navigation
~33.7800° S, 80.7800° W · 6-8 hrs crossing
Day 3 Stejneger’s Petrel · Beaked Whales
Alejandro Selkirk Island
33.7800° S, 80.7800° W · Masafuera
Day 3 Remote oceanic island · Endemic wildlife
Rada La Colonia
33.7600° S, 80.7900° W · Fishermen’s Cove
Day 3 Settlement & gateway to the wilderness
La Cuchara Camp
33.7400° S, 80.8000° W · 1,090m a.s.l.
Days 4 – 5 Base camp · Masafuera Rayadito search
Fardelarios Camp
33.7300° S, 80.8100° W · Higher elevation
Day 6 Nocturnal Pink-footed Shearwater observation
3
Return & Departure
Days 7 – 9
Return Navigation
~33.7800° S, 80.7800° W · Pelagic crossing
Day 7 Back to Robinson Crusoe Island
San Juan Bautista · Free Day
33.6370° S, 78.8260° W · Robinson Crusoe Island
Day 8 Optional hiking, diving, snorkeling
Santiago — End of Expedition
33.4489° S, 70.6693° W · Arturo Merino Benitez Airport
Day 9 Return flight
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