Whale Watching in Chile 2024-2025

Chile's vast Pacific coastline, spanning over 4,000 kilometers and showcasing pristine, untouched landscapes, offers a stunning setting for whale and dolphin watching. Several baleen whale species can be seen near the shore as they migrate between the warmer breeding grounds in the north and the nutrient-rich feeding grounds of Antarctica. From Chile's shores, you can spot migrating blue, gray, and humpback whales.

Best Time to See Blue Whales

From December to April, the Corcovado Gulf becomes a haven for marine life, particularly blue whales, which feast on the abundant krill in the nutrient-rich waters. While blue whales can occasionally be spotted year-round, the Chilean summer months are the best time for whale watching, as rough winter waters make sightings more difficult. During these months, the gulf teems with sea mammals, offering a remarkable experience for visitors eager to witness these magnificent creatures up close. Though it’s uncertain how long they have frequented the gulf, today, anyone can embark on a whale-watching trip during this prime season for an unforgettable adventure.

Key Viewing Locations

Key locations include La Serena and Chañaral de Aceituno, where coastal trips often combine wildlife viewing with penguins, fin whales, bottlenose dolphins, and, between December and March, humpback and blue whales. In the Chiloé Archipelago, both shore and boat-based whale watching offer exceptional opportunities to spot blue whales, especially around Melinka Island and the Gulf of Corcovado. Further south, in Punta Arenas, tours explore the fjords of the Francisco Coloane Marine Park, where humpback whales and dolphins can be seen. Longer cruises departing from Punta Arenas venture into the Antarctic, where whale sightings on feeding grounds are common during the summer months.

Whale-watching Trips

One of the best spots for whale watching in Chile is the Corcovado Gulf, while the Strait of Magellan is another excellent location. Tour companies offer guided whale-watching tours from regions such as Punta Arenas, Pucon, and Puerto Montt. These tours provide an educational and fascinating experience, with knowledgeable guides who share extensive information about the whales and their behaviors, making the trip both informative and unforgettable.

The Corcovado Gulf

The Corcovado Gulf attracts wildlife enthusiasts with its rich variety of marine life, including blue whales, humpback whales, dolphins, and orcas. Located near the Humboldt Current, which brings nutrient-rich waters, the area supports a diverse ecosystem filled with krill and fish, drawing in these majestic marine mammals. In addition to whales, visitors can also spot otters, fur seals, and penguins, making the region a remarkable destination for nature lovers seeking an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Marine Animals in the Gulf

Apart from blue whales, other marine animals that can be seen in the Corcovado Gulf include humpback whales. They usually visit between July and November every year. Orcas can be seen during the summer, and dolphins can be spotted throughout the year. Penguins, sea otters, and seals are abundant in the area, making the Gulf diverse in terms of wildlife habitat that caters to all animal lovers and nature enthusiasts.

History

It is not clear how long blue whales have been visiting the Corcovado Gulf, but the discovery of these creatures started in the mid-2000s. Researchers tracked the whales through electronic tags and identified a feeding ground for blue whales in Chile. Afterward, there has been an increase in tourism, and visitors come worldwide to see the blue whales up close in the Gulf.

Whale-Watching Tips

Whales are most easily spotted in clear weather and calm seas, making morning tours particularly advantageous due to typically lower wave activity. For optimal visibility, it’s best to secure a seat at the bow of the boat. If you are prone to motion sickness, choosing a larger, more stable vessel is recommended. Additionally, smaller boats like Zodiacs and rafts may not be suitable for young children or pregnant women due to their limited stability.

What to Wear

Even on warm days, ocean temperatures can be quite chilly, so it’s a good idea to bring a windbreaker or at least a sweater. Choose long pants and closed-toed shoes with non-slip rubber soles for added comfort and safety. Additionally, safeguard yourself against harmful UV rays by applying sunscreen and wearing a sunhat and sunglasses during your time at sea.

What to Bring

Bringing binoculars and a camera with a telephoto lens will greatly enhance your chances of spotting and photographing marine mammals. Remember to pack extra batteries, as you'll likely need them. Given the possibility of splashes, particularly on smaller boats or kayaks, consider using a waterproof sleeve or zip bag to protect your phone and camera gear. While it's not necessary to pack snacks—many large catamarans and sailboats provide food and beverages on board—smaller Zodiac boats usually only offer a basic supply of water during the tour.

Photography Tips

Capturing a picture of a whale requires patience, observation, and quick reflexes. Start by studying the whale's behavior; for instance, when feeding, whales often cause a frenzy among diving birds, signaling a potential lunge. Focus on areas with the most bird activity, as the whale may surface suddenly. For action shots like breaching, look for key signals, such as a whale arching its back before diving, which indicates a good chance for a tail shot. Although breaching can be unpredictable, if it happens once, be ready for a second. Lens choice is essential as well. A wide-angle lens captures the whale in its vast environment, while a shorter focal length lens allows for easier tracking and focusing on closer action.