Robinson Crusoe Island Castaway

Day 1 Arrive to Robinson Crusoe Island (L,D)

From Santiago fly to Robinson Crusoe Island, one of three main islands in the Juan Fernandez Archipelago about 600 km off Chile's coastline. Arriving late morning, drive along El Arenal beach keeping a look out for fur seals along the coastline. Pass by El Padre bay and continue towards Cumberland Bay, the location of your exclusive lodge, Robinson Crusoe Island resort, in time for your gourmet lunch featuring traditional dishes like lobster and golden crab. The afternoon is free today for you to explore the grounds and get acquainted with your new home.

Day 2 Selkirk Viewpoint and San Juan Bautista Village (B,L,D)

Enjoy a buffet breakfast before setting out for your first excursion on the island. Start a fairly challenging four and a half hour trek up to Selkirk Viewpoint where it is said that Alexander Selkirk looked out into the distance in search of a rescue ship. Alexander is said to have been the inspiration for the character of Robinson Crusoe in Daniel Defoe's famous novel Robinson Crusoe. He was reportedly abandoned by his captain on the uninhabited island after a dispute in 1704, and survived there for 4 years before being rescued. The spectacular views are a great reward for the hard effort, and you can see remains of a shack Alexander used to protect himself from the weather changes during long walks. Lunch is served in Mirador del Selkirk hostel. 

This afternoon embark on a leisurely walk visiting the historical landmarks of San Juan Bautista Village, the only settlement on the island with just over 500 inhabitants. See the Patriotic Caves, the Santa Barbara Fort, and the remains of Acorazado Dresden, a German battleship sunk to avoid capture in 1915 in Cumberland Bay. Peruse the local artisan shops on the island before heading back to the lodge for dinner.

Day 3 Sailing and Marine Adventures (B,L,D)

This morning you set out on a marine adventure! Observe the island's marine fauna and lobster fishing along the coastline. Sail around to see how this industry helps to feed those on the island. After lunch back at the hotel, you set out this afternoon for a snorkeling or scuba diving activity. Robinson Crusoe Island is world famous dive destination. Swim with fur seals and curious sea lions and explore beautiful underwater volcanic cliffs and caves.  Amateurs are welcome to try diving, which is limited to a maximum depth of 15m and are run by qualified PADI instructors.

Day 4 Horseback Riding to El Yunque (B,L,D)

This morning set out on horseback  on a trail that winds through native forest that begins at the foot of the Cerro Yunque. After about three and a half hours, arrive to the Plazoleta del Yunque, the highest summit on the island. Here you will find the ruins of the Dresen crew members. Return to the hotel for lunch.

Enjoy an afternoon walk on Centinela Hill through endemic forest lined with fruit and cinnamon trees before returning to the hotel for dinner.

Day 5 Return Home (B)

Return to Santiago today, or extend your stay for a few more nights.