Excursion to Magallanes Nature Reserve and Club Andino, Punta Arenas

It's common to begin your half-day excursion to explore Patagonia with pick-up from your hotel in Punta Arenas. From there, your guide will drive you 5 miles (8 km) west through several neighborhoods before you hit the paved road to the Magallanes National Reserve. Upon arrival, you'll head out on a scenic trek through the Patagonian forest deep into the expansive 80-mile (20,878 ha) reserve. 

Typically, this initial leg of your journey takes about half an hour, but be prepared to stop and listen to your guide tell you about the diverse native vegetation you may encounter, including romerillo, sarsaparilla, the devil's strawberry, and calafate. Along the way, you might spot various bird species, such as the chunchos, rayaditos, and chercanes flitting between the trees. Wrap up the first leg of your trek by taking in the panoramic views of the De las Minas river valley as it winds toward the Strait of Magellan.

Usually, the second leg of your journey may take you to Club Andino, known for its winter sports and being one of the only ski fields with ocean views. From here, it's common to take the ski lift to a higher peak where you can gaze out on the city, Tierra del Fuego island, and the Darwin mountain range. As your excursion draws to an end, you'll return to Punta Arenas along the same route, a chance to take in the views one last time.