Robinson Crusoe Island is one of three islands of the Juan Fernandez archipelago.  The other two islands are Alejandro Selkirk and the small Santa Clara. The archipelago was declared a national park in 1935.

Located some 674 km (411 miles) from the Chilean mainland in the Pacific Ocean, it is here that Alexander Selkirk (Robinson Crusoe) was marooned in 1705 and lived in absolute solitude for 5 years.  His story was the inspiration for Daniel Defoe's classic novel, Robinson Crusoe.

The main village is San Juan Bautista with some 500 inhabitants, engaged mainly in fishing for the incerless lobster.

In 1977 these islands were declared by UNESCO as World Biosphere Reserves, have been considered of great scientific importance because of the endemic species of flora and fauna. Of the 146 native species of plants, 101 are endemic.

The red hummingbird is most famous for its needle-fine black beak and silken feather coverage.

Getting there:
Getting there is part of the adventure. It is a 2 1/2 hour flight on comfortable but small twin-engine planes from a local airport in Santiago.  After landing, board the local taxi-boat for 1 1/2 hour scenic transfer to the only inhabited town, San Juan Bautista.   Flights are not daily and are subject to weather conditions.

Accommodations:
Hosteria El Pangal is located in the village of San Juan Bautista and offers the basic comforts and amenities.  Accommodations have private bathroom. There is a living room with Satellite TV, music and fireplace next to the bar, and there is a dining room specializing in lobster and fish. There are nice gardens, a small swimming pool and great views of Cumberland Bay.

When to go:
Best season is from October through April with the best months within the season: December and January.

What to do:
Robinson is full of legends about battles, conquerors, corsairs and hidden treasures, conserving even today the atmosphere of adventure and mystery. There are plenty of hikes including one to Robinson Crusoe's cave, lots of unique flora and fauna to enjoy. You can also go horseback riding and go fishing, sailing and swimming with the sea lions.

Excursions include the Santa Barbara Fortress and Patriot's Caves, Selkirk's Lookout, Robinson's Cave, Puerto Frances and Playa Arenal.