Robinson Crusoe Island

The volcanic Juan Fernandez Island chain is internationally recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. On Robinson Crusoe Island, 64% of the flora is endemic and 11 bird species are unique. Most visitors come to the archipelago to observe flora, fauna, scuba dive in the deep blue sea and climb its mountains for spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean.

Most trips will start from the town of San Juan Bautista on Robinson Crusoe Islands. Due to the fragility of the park, most hikes need to be organised and led by locally registered guides.

According to legend, Scottish Royal Naval officer Alexander Selkirk was marooned by his captain on an uninhabited island, later known as Robinson Crusoe Island, for four years and four months. Each day, he would hike four kilometres to this lookout and search the horizon for a rescue ship. His story of survival and adventure was widely publicised after his return to England, and eventually became a source of inspiration for writer Daniel Defoe's fictional character Robinson Crusoe.

The hike is not difficult, taking two hours of steady uphill trekking. At the end, hikers are rewarded with an amazing view of the island and the Pacific Ocean. Start the hike in San Juan Bautista and follow a trail that will take you through the steep slopes of Cerro Yunque. You have arrived when you see the plaque in honour of Selkirk.

The best time to visit the archipelago is between October and February. It’s important to note that there are strong winds in October and cancelled or delayed flights are common. You can travel to the Islands by boat through a company called Transmarko. This vessel has capacity for 12 passengers in mixed accommodation. The trip takes approximately 40 hours in total and goes out once a month, usually during the last week. If you want to travel by ship, you must make reservations in advance.