Chiloé

Humboldt Currents

Ferry to Chiloé

One day after picking up our rental car in Santiago we were boarding the ferry for Chiloé. We had stayed in Chillán overnight and made good time down route 5. We drove directly onto the ferry and reached Ancud in the early evening. 

Curanto

After locating a hostel and getting some information about the local activities we finally got around to having supper in a popular local restaurant. Jeremy tried curanto, which is the famous dish of Chiloé. 

Pinguineras de Puñihuil

The following day we set out for Puñihuil Penguin Reserve. We had to maneuver an ugly stretch of road to reach the remote section of shore near the southwest tip of the island. Puñihuil is the only known shared breeding ground of both Humboldt and Magellanic penguins.   

Humboldt Penguin

We took a boat out to view three small islands and the intriguing creatures that call them home. Amazingly, we were able to see the two distinct colonies side by side. Large groups hanging out close to the water and others, normally in pairs, guarding the nests and burrowing holes like sentries. I would have loved to stick around for shift change.

Parque Nacional Chiloé

We worked our way south to Chiloé National Park. We hiked all the available trails in a few hours. The park was nice but not spectacular. Still, we enjoyed ourselves despite the swarming horse flies. The highlight was emerging from the forest, walking along the beach and wading into the cold water.  

Mythical Shores of Chiloé

Castro, Chiloé

Life in Castro was good. We were housed right on the water at the Palafito Hostel. When on-site, we spent our time on the spacious deck. Sipping wine, chatting and staring out across the bay to the hills beyond.   

Viviendo el destino

Before leaving we took turns taking a sea kayak into the bay. The view of all the colorful houses on stilts or "palafitos" from the water was an impressive one. 

Asado de cordero

We were fortunate to pass through Nercón during a festival. We stopped in for asado and apple empanadas before hitting the road.