Step onto the island that inspired Daniel Defoe's classic novel — Robinson Crusoe Island (Isla Más a Tierra) is one of the most remote, jaw-dropping archipelagos on Earth. A private charter from Santa Clara delivers an extraordinary day of endemic wildlife, volcanic landscapes, and total seclusion.
What to expect
A private or small-group charter boat departs Santa Clara for the 90-minute crossing to Robinson Crusoe Island, where a certified CONAF naturalist guide escorts you through the national park. You'll visit Alejandro Selkirk's cave — the real castaway's refuge — trek through cloud forest bursting with endemic flora, and observe Juan Fernández fur seal colonies at close range on the volcanic shoreline. The afternoon offers time to explore San Juan Bautista village, the island's sole settlement, for local seafood and langosta (spiny lobster) before the return crossing.
Good to know
The crossing takes approximately 90 minutes each way; confirm all-aboard time carefully and allow a 2-hour buffer. Park entry must be arranged via CONAF in advance. Private charters from Santa Clara should be booked at least 4–6 weeks ahead given limited vessel availability.