Explore Robinson Crusoe Island in Chile

In the late 1700s, writer Daniel Defoe wrote a fictional story about an English adventurer named Robinson Crusoe who ended up shipwrecked on a remote island. Crusoe befriended animals, fought off cannibals, and built a small island sanctuary for himself using foraged tools. Robinson Crusoe was such a smash hit that the name of the book’s main character is still synonymous with adventure to this day.

To the great delight of modern adventurers, historians believe that Daniel Defoe may have been inspired by a real life Scottish sailor named Alexander Selkirk who was shipwrecked for 4 years on an uninhabited island off the coast of Chile which is now known as Robinson Crusoe Island. Robinson Crusoe Island is home to verdant plants, unique animals that evolved in isolation, and lovely mountains that are often shrouded in clouds. Visitors must board a small seaplane to reach the island, but the rugged beauty of the terrain is certainly worth the journey.

Visitors can sign up for numerous excursions on Robinson Crusoe Island including kayaking, snorkeling, and fishing. You will certainly cherish paddling past a family of fur seals sunning themselves on a rock. Nature lovers never tire of scanning the horizon for the elusive Juan Fernandez Firecrown Hummingbird. With a slim black beak and vibrant red feathers, the Firecrown is a magical sight.

If you work up an appetite while you’re out adventuring, Robinson Crusoe Island’s main settlement— the town of San Juan Bautista—is home to some delectable eateries that serve delicious fresh lobster. Lobster is such an important staple on Robinson Crusoe Island that visitors have been known to have their seat on an outgoing seaplane usurped by a shipment of live lobster headed to Santiago.

Travelers do have the option to stay overnight on Robinson Crusoe Island. Thankfully, they don’t have to dwell in a dank cave as Crusoe did in Defoe’s book. Hostal Petit Breuilh offers cozy accommodations that make guests feel as though they are spending the night at a dear friend’s house. Hostel Petit Breuilh visitors can count on eating plenty of lobster along with other fresh seafood. You just might willingly surrender your seat on the next outgoing seaplane after a few joyful, relaxing days on Robinson Crusoe Island.

Those with a taste for adventure and a love of sweeping natural beauty will adore Robinson Crusoe Island’s unique wildlife, volcanic peaks, and pristine water that is ideal for sailing, swimming, and exploring.