Robinson Crusoe Island
Chile

Robinson Crusoe Island
This fascinating island takes its name after the novel written by Daniel Defoe which was based on a true story of a sailor called Alexander Selkirk who was marooned on the island in 1704 for four years and four months. However the island is also known as Juan Fernandez, who was the first to discover the island in 1574.

There are two other islands near to Robinson Crusoe called Santa Clara and Alexander Selkirk and all are often grouped into being the called the Fernandez Archipelago with all three islands now protected as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and National Park.

Location
Robinson Crusoe Island is located 570 kilometers off Chile.

Travel Guide
Access to the island is via plane from Santiago de Chile which will transport you to La Punta airport on Robinson Crusoe Island in around 3 hours. From the airport you will then have to take a boat ride to the main town of San Juan Bautista.

Accommodation
There are a couple of places to stay within the town of San Juan Bautista.

Attractions
As well as being an island of natural beauty there are other attractions as well, including:

Robinson Crusoe Cave
It is possible to visit the cave where Selkirk lived for four years while he awaited transportation home. The trip here is by boat and allows you to observe the stunning coastline and wildlife that includes animals such as the entertaining sea lions.
Selkirk Lookout
Selkirk had a lookout overlooking the sea, which he would visit daily in the hope of finding a transport ship to take him home. Once you have hiked up to the top you will be rewarded with superb views.
Santa Barbara Fortress
Here you will find the ruins of the Santa Barbara Fortress which was built around 1749 by the Spanish.
Juan Fernandez National Park
Hiking through the National Park with a guide is one of the best ways to take in the islands rich bird life and observe several species such as the Hummingbird which is endemic to the island. The lush and varied plant life found within the forests is in stark contrast to other areas of the island where volcanic peaks and rugged coastline offer their own charm with beautiful views found all around the island.
Boat Trips
Boat rides around the island allow you to observe many sea bird colonies as well as fur seals and enjoy the rugged coastline that surrounds the islands.
Snorkeling and Diving
Snorkeling and scuba diving in the area is excellent with stunning coral reefs, plenty of underwater activity and good visibility. There is also the chance to visit the German wreck SMS Dresden which was damaged during World War I.

Robinson Crusoe Island Chile

Robinson Crusoe Island
Chile