Punta Arenas, Chile
Punta Arenas is a charming city located in the southern tip of Chilean Patagonia. It's a fascinating destination known for its beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and diverse wildlife.
Trip to Punta Arenas, Chile
Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration
Take a morning flight to Punta Arenas and then check into your accommodation. After resting for a while, take a stroll around the city and explore the city center. Explore the Plaza de Armas square to see the statue of Ferdinand Magellan, the explorer for whom the world’s largest ocean was named. Visit the beautiful pink Palacio Sara Braun, which is now a museum exhibiting local Patagonian history. You will also see the Municipal Cemetery, the burial place of many of this city’s most important historical figures and explorers. You can visit Paseo Bosque and enjoy some time surrounded by nature.
Day 2: Penguin Colonies at Isla Magdalena
Catch a morning ferry from the harbour to Isla Magdalena. The island is a breeding spot for around 60,000 penguins that you can see from up close. It is an unforgettable face-to-face encounter with these beautiful animals, and it is a must-do experience for nature lovers. The guided tours assist with the visit to the island.
Day 3: Torres del Paine National Park
Travel by car or bus (200 km) to one of Chile’s most stunning national parks, Torres del Paine. The park features a range of rugged mountains, peaking glaciers, and an array of wildlife to spot. From hiking, biking, kayaking to nature walks, you are likely to engage in outdoor activities to enjoy the stunning scenery of the Andes and Patagonia.
Day 4: Relaxing Day
Today you can have a relaxing day, take some time to recharge and explore the city at your own pace. Indulge in some retail therapy and visit the local shops, markets, and stores such as the Zona Franca shopping mall to indulge in some shopping. You can also sit back and explore the nearby surroundings to experience the natural beauty of the area around you.
Day 5: Horseback Ride through Patagonian Countryside
Horseback riding tours are easily accessible from Punta Arenas, featuring different opportunities to enjoy the scenery: stretching through Patagonian countryside and lake lands through Cerro Guido, Sierra Dorotea, and the ‘Zona de Estancias’ area. You will be guided by the experienced locals, providing an experience that will be full of memories yet another.
Day 6: Penguins in Seno Otway
Start your day by taking a tour from Punta Arenas to a penguin reserve at Seno Otway. The endangered Magellanic penguins nest at Seno Otway in between September and March and are an unusual sight so close to a city! You will be given a guided tour to see their burrows, learn about their lifecycle, and watch penguin activities. Later, you can drive to Puerto Natales (250km), the entry point to Torres del Paine.
Day 7: Exploring Puerto Natales
Enjoy the day exploring the little town of Puerto Natales before your evening flight back home. You can relax by the dock, walk through town, and visit the local markets. You could take a hike in nearby forests, or enjoy a seafood meal in the local bars. Later in the evening, catch your flight back home to relish your Punta Arenas, Chile experience.
