The Best Places To See Penguins In The Wild in 2023

Whether it’s due to their comical waddle or their unique look, we humans love penguins. In fact, when assessing zoos, people tend to flock to see the penguins. Learning about penguins in their natural habitat is certainly better than seeing them in a zoo, though.

Thankfully, in 2023, there are many amazing locations that provide holidaymakers with a reliable spot to see penguins in the wild, but also a lovely destination for them to enjoy an amazing holiday, too. After all, most people probably don’t want to base their entire holiday around penguin spotting, but it’s a great thing to do to take a break from beach-based activities or fishing deep out at sea.

Witnessing penguins in their natural environment is certainly one of life’s most amazing experiences, particularly if you adore the aquatic flightless birds. While you can fall in love with penguins through shows like Pingu, documentaries like March of the Penguins and BBC docs with David Attenborough, and popular casino games like Penguin Vacation, seeing them in their home and witnessing them in the flesh is a truly unbeatable experience. Thankfully, given their popularity with people, there are some fantastic places to see penguins in the wild in 2023. Let’s take a look at some of the best destinations below.

The Falkland Islands is packed full of penguins

An ideal spot for a variety of wildlife, including penguins and other birds, the Falkland Islands is home to five species of penguins and is a go-to spot for people who want to see these excellent animals up close. Located several hundred miles off the southern coast of Argentina, the Falkland Islands offers a selection of ideal features that provide penguins with the perfect home, such as its rugged coastline and untouched waters. When you’re there, the species of penguins that you’re likely to see are gentoo penguins, Magellanic penguins, macaroni penguins, king penguins and rockhopper penguins, all of which have a range of different characteristics and features. You’re almost guaranteed to see a huge selection of other wildlife, too, making the Falkland Islands a highly desirable location for many people.

The Galápagos Islands is a glorious location

Home to a selection of wildlife, Ecuador’s Galápagos Islands are thriving with an array of natural beauty. Also home to a wide selection of other animals and life that is unique to the area, penguins can be spotted there with ease as you embark on a guided tour or a relaxing cruise. Known as Galápagos penguins after being named after the islands they inhabit, these delightful creatures can be spotted in one of the most wild locations on Earth. For many people, a trip to the Galápagos Islands is hard to beat.

Chile’s Humboldt Penguin National Reserve is filled with penguins

The clue is in the name, but the Humboldt Penguin National Reserve is a stunning destination that is home to the island’s native penguins, Humboldt penguins. Although venturing to the reserve from Chile’s capital city of Santiago will take you around six hours, it’s most definitely worth the journey. A welcoming environment, you’ll be able to gain a glimpse into the lives of these truly amazing creatures, with a number of boats and excursions ready to take you on an unforgettable tour of this wonderful home for penguins.

Antarctica’s Snow Hill Island is a top destination

Snow Hill Island in Antarctica is a surefire way of seeing one of the most famous species of penguin, the emperor penguin. While this more rural escapade isn’t for everyone, you’re likely to be exposed to a huge selection of glorious creatures in one of Earth’s most wild locations.

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