Hache Island

Hache Island, commonly known as “H” Island because of it’s shape, is only accessible through a tour with Tres Marias based in Ushuaia.  You should arrange your tour the day before you want to go although they do take last minute bookings if space is available.  They offer two option to the island, motorboat or sailboat.  Each time I’ve done this trip with them (2012 and 2018) I have gone on the sailboat.  Sailing the Beagle Channel is an experience that only enhances your trip to H Island.

 

On the way to H Island, the crew will sail past another small rocky island in the channel which is home to a group of Sea Lions.  On top and above where the Sea Lions are is a large colony of Imperial Shags.  Be sure to bring a telephoto lense.

 

Once at H Island, there is a bit of a climb up a rocky slope right off the boat because there is no dock.  There is several different routes on the island that the guide will take you on.  Independent travel around the small island is not permitted.  The route the guide takes depends on the location of the nesting Rock Cormorants and how windy conditions are on the island.  The hike can range between 1 mile and 1.5 miles.

 

This is a great island for birding.  Also look for the Calafate Berry.  Legend states if you eat a Calafate Berry, you are sure to return to Tierra Del Fuego.