An isolated archipelago with a legendary past.
4.9/5 ⭐Google 660+ Reviews | A+ Better Business Bureau
Overview
The Juan Fernández Islands are a remote archipelago of volcanic origin located approximately 670 kilometers (416 miles) off the coast of central Chile in the South Pacific Ocean. Comprising three main islands—Robinson Crusoe Island (Isla Más a Tierra), Alejandro Selkirk Island (Isla Más Afuera), and Santa Clara Island—this sparsely populated group is a designated UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. It's globally famous for being the real-life setting for the marooned sailor Alexander Selkirk, whose four-year ordeal inspired Daniel Defoe's classic novel, "Robinson Crusoe."
Beyond its literary fame, the islands are an ecological marvel, boasting an extraordinarily high percentage of endemic plant and animal species found nowhere else on Earth. The rugged, mountainous terrain, lush forests, and pristine marine environment offer an unparalleled experience for nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking true isolation and a deep connection with a unique ecosystem. Life on the inhabited Robinson Crusoe Island revolves around sustainable lobster fishing and a small, dedicated tourism industry.
Embark on hikes that trace the steps of the real-life castaway, Alexander Selkirk. The most famous is the trek to Mirador Selkirk, where Selkirk is said to have surveyed for ships.
Tip: Hire a local guide for an interpretive experience and to navigate the trails safely.
Wander through San Juan Bautista, the archipelago's only permanent settlement. This quaint fishing village is the heart of island life. Observe the rhythm of a community connected to the sea and its sustainable lobster fishery.
Tip: Visit the local market, interact with the friendly residents.
The waters around the Juan Fernández Islands are exceptionally clear and teeming with marine life. Explore underwater landscapes, encounter the endemic Juan Fernández fur seal, and discover shipwrecks like the German cruiser Dresden that sank.
Tip: Book with local dive operators in San Juan Bautista.
The islands are a birdwatcher's paradise, home to several endemic bird species found nowhere else. Look for the critically endangered Juan Fernández Firecrown hummingbird, the Juan Fernández Tit-Tyrant, and various seabirds nesting on cliffs.
Tip: Bring high-magnification binoculars and a telephoto lens.
Beyond the Selkirk viewpoint, explore other hiking trails through the Juan Fernández Archipelago National Park. These trails lead through endemic forests of tree ferns and native trees. Pay attention to the distinct flora.
Tip: Some trails require a guide for safety and conservation reasons.
Discover the remnants of the islands, an 18th-century Spanish fort built to deter pirates. You can find gun shells embedded in cliffs near San Juan Bautista from the WWI engagement involving the German cruiser Dresden.
Tip: These sites offer a tangible link to the islands' role in maritime history.
Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia
1 Sailing
Sep 29, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Broome, Australia
1 Sailing
Aug 16, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Oranjestad, Aruba, Caribbean
1 Sailing
Oct 2, 2028
Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Reykjavik, Iceland
1 Sailing
Aug 23, 2028
Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Valparaiso (Santiago), Chile
1 Sailing
Oct 18, 2028
Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Halifax, Nova Scotia
1 Sailing
Sep 24, 2028
Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Reykjavik, Iceland
1 Sailing
Sep 6, 2028
Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Darwin, Australia
1 Sailing
Aug 26, 2027
Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Broome, Australia
1 Sailing
Aug 16, 2027
Aboard
Seabourn Pursuit
From
Buenos Aires, Argentina
1 Sailing
Mar 23, 2027
Our expert consultants and customer service teams are standing by to help with all of your cruising needs.
[Our Cruise Expert] and his team were absolutely amazing to work with! Our original trip was unexpectedly canceled by the airline, so we decided at the last minute to go on a cruis...
Julia K.
I've booked several cruises with [Our Cruise Expert] in the past 15 years and continue to book with her for my family of five. We just returned from a Western Caribbean cruise on...
John C.
Friendly and professional attention by my senior cruise consultant. Perfect assistance. Thank you
Jose M.
I was having some trouble finding the right cruise for the right price as a single traveler, but thanks to [our Cruise Expert] I was able to find it with Cruise Web. Thank you very...
Camille G.
We have worked with [our Cruise Expert] several times and she makes it so easy and a pleasure to work with. She is very knowledgeable.
Linda F.
[Our Cruise Expert] was informative and very pleasant to work with. I'm not familiar with booking travel online and he made my experience pleasant.
Sharon E.
I am working with [our Cruise Expert] as my travel agent...he has been very helpful...he is very informative and knowledgeable about the places that I want to go on my Cruise....I...
Priscilla B.
[Our Cruise Expert] does an exceptional job of planning (with you) and coordinating a trip of your dreams! I can't wait to get started on the next one.
Sheralyn H.
Great working with [our Cruise Expert]! He was a tremendous help and steered us in the right direction every time! Helped us make memories for a lifetime!
Wendy F.
[Our Cruise Expert] always works hard to secure the bookings we have chosen and guides us through the process. She is always available to help and her advise is spot on.
James C.
