Isla Robinson CrusoeThings to do

Things to do in Isla Robinson Crusoe

  1. A

    Cemetery

    San Juan's Cemetery, at the north end of Bahía Cumberland near the lighthouse, provides a unique perspective on the island's history, with its polyglot assortment of Spanish, French and German surnames - the latter survivors of the sinking of the Dresden.

    Just beyond the cemetery, fur seals frolic offshore beneath a spot where, after missing the German cruiser Dresden, shells from British ships lodged in the volcanic cliffs. The Dresden, however, took enough disabling hits that its captain chose to scuttle it rather than let it fall into British hands.

    reviewed

  2. B

    Aldea Daniel Defoe

    This restaurant/bar, with a worn, salty maritime feel, serves up sandwiches, fish and chips, crab or lobster crepes, and heaping fixed-price meals. It even has a couple of Peruvian and Mexican dishes. While the food may not have an edge on other restaurants in town, it wins in terms of personality.

    It is always smart to reserve ahead at restaurants, especially if more than two people will be dining, or if you desire lobster or more elaborate dishes. If you don't like seafood, you may be in trouble, although basic vegetarian options can be concocted on request.

    reviewed

  3. C

    El Remo

    This a popular gathering spot. It stays open late and serves tasty sandwiches, lunches (fish with a salad usually) and, with advance warning, lobster for two people. Ask to try the homemade murtillado - rum infused with murtillas, a blueberrylike red fruit.

    It is always smart to reserve ahead at restaurants, especially if more than two people will be dining, or if you desire lobster or more elaborate dishes. If you don't like seafood, you may be in trouble, although basic vegetarian options can be concocted on request.

    reviewed

  4. D

    Endémica Expediciones

    Multilingual and cutting-edge, this excellent agency offers scuba diving, hiking, kayaking, fishing and snorkeling trips. Recommended are day trips to lobstering grounds with artisan fisherfolk. Single dives per person cost CH$38,000 to CH$43,000 depending on the number of overall divers. Snorkeling with fur seals costs from CH$65,000. Serious divers (six or more) can do a five-day all-inclusive dive and accommodations package for CH$625,000 per person.

    reviewed

  5. E

    Fuerte Santa Bárbara

    Built in 1749 to discourage incursions by pirates, these Spanish fortifications were reconstructed in 1974. To get there, follow the path from the Cuevas de los Patriotas, or else climb directly from the plaza via Subida El Castillo. From here you can continue to Mirador de Selkirk.

    reviewed

  6. F

    Cuevas de los Patriotas

    Reached by a short footpath from Larraín Alcalde and illuminated at night, these damp caverns sheltered Juan Egaña, Manuel de Salas and 40 other participants in Chile's independence movement for several years after their defeat in the Battle of Rancagua in 1814.

    reviewed

  7. Casa de Cultura & Biblioteca Daniel Defoe

    The uninspired museum and combined library exhibits historic photos, a few plates from the Dresden and relics from colonial days. Guests can reserve a free half-hour of internet use in the library.

    reviewed

  8. Marooned

    A small, personalized operation offering guided hikes in Parque Nacional Juan Fernández. Staff speaks English and can tailor trips for those with interests in history, botany or bird-watching.

    reviewed

  9. Cumberland Restaurant

    Tasty fish sandwiches, grilled snapper and steak and salad are staples at this popular, family-friendly spot. Check out the weekend happy hour with two-for-one drinks.

    reviewed

  10. G

    Ecoturismo Los Colonos de Juan Fernández

    Offers all of the island’s main activities, including diving and fishing. One popular option is the guided boat trip to Puerto Inglés (CH$40,000).

    reviewed

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  12. Casa de Cultura & Biblioteca Daniel Defoe

    Not the most interesting experience, but good for a rainy day, the half library, half museum has a small exhibit of historic photos and artifacts.

    reviewed

  13. H

    Ecoturismo Aventuras

    Offers horseback expeditions, boat tours and guided hikes with negotiable, competitive prices.

    reviewed

  14. I

    El Nocturno

    The Nocturno serves empanadas and large portions of local seafood in a no-frills sports bar.

    reviewed