Ancud

Sports & the Outdoors

Water sports such as sailing or sea kayaking are popular in Ancud. There are several fishing and trekking possibilities as well. Along the coastline you can see dolphins, penguins, and often whales from the safety of the area's picturesque beaches. Perhaps the best outdoor excursion in the Ancud area is a visit to Punihul (www.pinguineraschiloe.cl). Located 29 km (18 mi) southwest of Ancud, the three small islets here are home to a colony of Humboldt and Magellanic penguins along with a variety of other birds and wildlife.

Austral Adventures (Lord Cochrane 43. 65/625-977. www.austral-adventures.com) has a 50-foot vessel, the Cahuella, that takes visitors on extended trips throughout Chiloé.

Chepu Adventures (Chepu. 9/379-2481. chepuadventures@gmail.com) offers kayaking, bird-watching, fishing, nature walks, and more.

Chiloe Indomito (Chacao. 9/509-3741. www.chiloeindomito.com) offers guided hiking and naturalist trips in northern Chiloé along the western coast.

Richard Dodge (9/097-6480. Richard.dodge@gmail.com) is a travel consultant, guide, and translator.

Rios Magicos (7/621-1859. www.riosmagicos.com) runs fly-fishing, bird-watching, trekking, and canoeing trips.