Best of Punta Arenas

Top itineraries and travel advice in and around Punta Arenas
One of the largest cities in Patagonia, Punta Arenas spreads along the edge of the Strait of Magellan and has a fascinating history of trade, fishing, farming and — more recently — outdoor tourism. The walkable city center has scenic plazas and opulent mansions from the 1800s, some of which house museums and upscale guesthouses. Often the first port of call for visitors to Patagonia, Punta Arenas makes a great base for trips into the surrounding wilderness. It’s also the point of embarkation for cruises to Antarctica and other parts of South America

Cruises to Isla Magdalena take you to one of the largest Magellanic penguin colonies in South America: over 120,000 penguins nest here every year. Nearby, on Isla Marta, you can spy hundreds of sea lions along with abundant bird life. For more active adventures, there’s kayaking and horseback riding, as well as mountain-biking along forested and mountain trails. You can also sail around Cape Froward, where you can see glaciers, whales, dolphins and penguins.
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Torres del Paine National Park
Map of Chile: Santiago, Casablanca Valley, & Relaxed Patagonia - 11 Days
Chile: Santiago, Casablanca Valley, & Relaxed Patagonia - 11 Days

On this 11-day tour of Chile, experience several different sides of the country—the capital city, two coastal towns, one of the main wine regions, and stunning Patagonia. Indulge in a food tour of Santiago, and then visit the neighboring, colorful towns of Viña del Mar and Valparaíso. Next, embark on a wine tasting tour of Casablanca Valley before heading to Punta Arenas, the hub of Patagonia. Enjoy several boat tours, hike around the gorgeous glaciers and peaks of Torres del Paine National Park, and visit a Patagonian estancia to close out the adventure.

Santiago, Valparaíso & Patagonia Nature Trip - 8 Days
Map of Santiago, Valparaíso & Patagonia Nature Trip - 8 Days
Santiago, Valparaíso & Patagonia Nature Trip - 8 Days

Immerse yourself in the unique landscapes and culture of Chile. Start your journey in Santiago and head to the Casablanca Valley to indulge in Chilean wine before traveling to the coastal city of Valparaíso to discover its beautiful murals and artsy vibe. Then, get an up-close look at a 150,000-strong penguin colony before heading to the famed Torres del Paine National Park to experience some of the best hiking trails and landscapes the region has to offer.

Hike into the world of Torres del Paine's glaciers and mountains
Map of Torres del Paine National Park: Self-Guided "W" Trek - 7 Days
Torres del Paine National Park: Self-Guided "W" Trek - 7 Days

Conquer Chile's famous "W Circuit" trek on this 7-day self-guided excursion for experienced hikers and the adventurous at heart. Starting in the trekker's paradise of Puerto Natales, you'll set out into Torres del Paine National Park, following the w-shaped route through some of Chilean Patagonia's most spectacular scenery. Pass towering mountains, vast glaciers, and turquoise lakes as you hike the rugged and rewarding 35 miles (56 km) to the base of the magnificent Glacier Grey.

Glacier Grey
Map of Southern Chile: Patagonian W Trek, Wildlife, & Wilderness Adventure - 13 Days
Southern Chile: Patagonian W Trek, Wildlife, & Wilderness Adventure - 13 Days

Conquer the highlights of Southern Chile on this 13-day adventure. After a quick stop to tour Santiago, hop a flight to Punta Arenas for your first glimpse of Patagonia. Then, visit penguins on Magdalena Island and enjoy a wildlife tour along the Straight of Magellan. Next, spend four days discovering the unparalleled beauty of Torres del Paine National Park along the W Trek, the famed Towers to the ice fields of Glacier Grey. The trip concludes with a kayaking excursion out of Pueblo Serrano—with more incredible glacial views along the way.

Welcome to Patagonia!
Map of Explore Chilean Patagonia - 6 Days
Explore Chilean Patagonia - 6 Days

On this brisk, six-day excursion, experience the unforgettable landscapes of Chilean Patagonia. Explore the capital city of Santiago to start, then travel to Punta Arenas to visit Magdalena Island, home to a colony of more than 150,000 penguins. Then, embark on a trek into the famed Torres del Paine National Park, a Patagonian Mecca for hikers. The vacation concludes with a stunning boat trip to Glacier Grey.

Torres del Paine at dawn
Map of Chilean Patagonia: Wildlife, W Trek, Ice Hiking, & Kayaking - 11 Days
Chilean Patagonia: Wildlife, W Trek, Ice Hiking, & Kayaking - 11 Days

Embark on an adventure through Chilean Patagonia on this eventful, 11-day trip. Fly into Santiago, and head straight to Punta Arenas. Do a bit of exploration before discovering the region’s native wildlife—visit the Austral dolphins in the Strait of Magellan, the penguins that inhabit Magdalena Island, and the sea lion colony on Marta Island. Then, it’s time to conquer the W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park. Hike to the famed Towers and walk along the ice of Glacier Grey. The trip winds down with a glacial kayaking excursion and a visit to a local estancia.

Glacier Grey
Map of Chile: Santiago, Pacific Coast, Maipo Valley, & Patagonia W Trek - 12 Days
Chile: Santiago, Pacific Coast, Maipo Valley, & Patagonia W Trek - 12 Days

This 12-day Chilean vacation starts in Santiago for some sightseeing, followed by a day trip to the coastal towns of Viña del Mar and Valparaíso. Then, head out to explore the rivers, gorges, and peaks of Maipo Valley. Next, fly to Punta Arenas to begin your Patagonian adventure. Visit penguins on Magdalena Island, take a tour of a working estancia, and spend four, incredible days hiking Torres del Paine's W Trek highlights—Mirador Base Torres, Lake Nordenskjöld, the French Valley, and Glacier Grey.

The mountain landscapes of Patagonia's Torres del Paine
Active Patagonia: Punta Arenas, Puerto Natales & Torres del Paine National Park - 7 Days

Patagonia's natural wonders take center stage on this week-long Chilean adventure. Arrive in the cosmopolitan capital of Santiago, then fly to the country's far south to embark on a series of unforgettable outdoor excursions. Meet the penguin colonies of Isla Magdalena, trek through the spectacular landscapes of Torres del Paine, and travel by boat through the Ultima Esperanza Sound to reach the remote Bernardo O'Higgins National Park.

The mountain landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park
Map of Wonders of Chile: Patagonia, Lake District & Santiago - 14 Days
Wonders of Chile: Patagonia, Lake District & Santiago - 14 Days

Take in rugged mountains, pristine fjords, and lush wine country on this diverse 14-day journey through Chile's greatest highlights. Start in the country's far south, where you'll hike through the wilds of Torres del Paine National Park, visit penguins on the Strait of Magellan, and horseback ride across a traditional Patagonian estancia. Head north to kayak and climb through the spectacular scenery of the Lake District, then wind down with a final three days in Santiago. After a trip filled with activity and adventure, enjoy a change of pace as you explore the vibrant capital and take relaxing day trips to the nearby wine country and colorful villages of the Pacific coast.

Santiago at sunset
Map of Chile: Santiago, Pacific Coast, Patagonia, & More - 13 Days
Chile: Santiago, Pacific Coast, Patagonia, & More - 13 Days

Explore many Chilean highlights in just under two weeks. Arrive in Santiago and embark on a city tour, followed by a day trip to the coastal towns of Viña del Mar and Valparaíso. Then, discover Maipo Valley’s peaks and streams, along with a wine tasting excursion through Casablanca Valley. Then, it’s off to Patagonia to discover the Aysén region, home to beautiful glaciers and stunning marble caves. Next, fly to Punta Arenas to view native wildlife, explore the best of Torres del Paine, and visit a local estancia—before one final evening in Santiago.

One of the stunning turquoise lakes in Torres del Paine National Park
Map of Adventure in Chilean Patagonia: Torres del Paine, Strait of Magellan & Lake District - 14 Days
Adventure in Chilean Patagonia: Torres del Paine, Strait of Magellan & Lake District - 14 Days

Discover the reason so many travelers head south to Chilean Patagonia on this 14-day itinerary. From the turquoise waters of the Lake District to the penguin colonies of Isla Magdalena, this region offers an endless array of natural sites to explore. Get close to the action as you reach out and touch the glaciers of Torres del Paine, kayak alongside sea lions and dolphins in the Strait of Magellan, and hike to the edge of the active Osorno Volcano.

Patagonia
Map of Santiago, Valparaíso & Patagonia Nature Trip
Santiago, Valparaíso & Patagonia Nature Trip

Begin your adventure in the capital of Santiago. Experience the city's culture and culinary delights on a full-day walking tour. Next, head to the coast to immerse yourself in the artsy vibe of Valparaíso before heading out to the Casablanca Valley to taste some of Chile's world-renowned wines. Then, travel south to Punta Arenas to explore the rugged beauty and unforgettable landscapes of Chilean Patagonia. Take a boat out to Magdalena Island, and get a close-up look at the 150,000 strong penguin colony. Then you'll embark on a trek into the famed Torres del Paine National Park, a Patagonian Mecca for hikers. Finally, you'll tour lakes and rivers before finishing with a boat trip to Glacier Grey.

See the salt flats and volcanoes of Chile's Atacama Desert
Map of Ultimate Chile Adventure: Cities, Wine Country, Deserts & Mountains - 15 Days
Ultimate Chile Adventure: Cities, Wine Country, Deserts & Mountains - 15 Days

Feed your adventurous soul with this 15-day tour of Chile. Begin in Santiago with bike tours of the city and visits to Chile's wine country for tastings of its best varietals. Then, it's off to the Andes Mountains and the Atacama Desert, where you'll travel through the mystical Moon Valley and swim in saltwater lagoons. Fly south to Patagonia to see the penguins of Magdalena Island in Puntas Arenas, then close the trip by hiking the mountains and glaciers of Torres del Paine National Park.

Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia
Map of Best of Southern Patagonia - 15 Days
Best of Southern Patagonia - 15 Days

This 15-day trip combines outdoor attractions around Chile and Argentina's spectacular far south, also known as Patagonia. You'll start with penguins, horses, and glaciers before entering Torres del Paine National Park for three days of guided tours. Then head across the border for Los Glaciares National Park where you'll go ice trekking and partake in several jaw-dropping trails near Mt. Fitz Roy.

Patagonia's Torres del Paine National Park
Map of Patagonia & Atacama Desert - 10 Days
Patagonia & Atacama Desert - 10 Days

Explore regions on both ends of Chile's latitudinal spectrum with this 10-day itinerary. After getting a taste of Santiago, fly north to the Atacama desert—an oasis in the driest part in the world known for geysers, moonscapes, and starry skies. Then fly all the way south to Patagonia's Punta Arenas where you'll meet a penguin colony before finishing in Torres del Paine National Park for a range of activities and wildlife viewing.

Los Cuernos, Torres del Paine
Map of Chilean Highlights: Patagonia, Santiago, & the Pacific Coast - 12 Days
Chilean Highlights: Patagonia, Santiago, & the Pacific Coast - 12 Days

On this 12-day Chilean vacation, explore three regions of the country—the capital city, Patagonia, and the Pacific Coast. Begin with some sightseeing in Santiago, and head to Patagonia the next day. Enjoy the waterfront promenade of Puerto Natales before venturing to Torres del Paine National Park. Spend an adventurous five days exploring the park’s highlights—Las Torres, Los Cuernos, Lake Nordenskjöld, the French Valley, Lago Grey/Glacier Grey, and more. Visit a Patagonian estancia, and go on a historical kayaking excursion. Then, return to Santiago and head out to the vibrant coastal towns of Viña del Mar and Valparaíso, a colorful grand finale.

Torres del Paine National Park
Map of Chile Grand Tour - 13 Days
Chile Grand Tour - 13 Days

Is it possible to experience the highlights of a famously diverse and beautiful country like Chile in just under two weeks? In this instance, yes. Over 13 days you can visit all the wonderous sites that have graced the covers of travel magazines for years. You get it all: the northern Atacama Desert, Patagonia—even the far-flung mystical island of Rapa Nui, better known as Easter Island to us foreigners. So pack a bag, get your hiking rear ready, and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.

Torres del Paine National Park
Map of Chile Grand Tour: Santiago, Atacama, Torres del Paine & Easter Island - 14 Days
Chile Grand Tour: Santiago, Atacama, Torres del Paine & Easter Island - 14 Days

Discover the incredible diversity of Chile's landscapes on this action-packed two-week adventure. Get to know the vibrant capital of Santiago, then head into the arid and otherworldly environs of the Atacama Desert. Venture south to Patagonia to hike to the towering peaks of Torres del Paine National Park before flying across the South Pacific to explore the mysterious icons and windswept coastlines of Easter Island.

Torres del Paine National Park
Discover Chile's Lake District & Patagonia - 14 Days

Make your way around a series of unforgettable natural attractions — including national parks, mountain peaks, icy glaciers, penguin colonies, pristine lagoons, and more — on this two-week tour around Chilean Patagonia and the Lake District. Bookended on both sides with a few days in the bustling capital city of Santiago, the itinerary takes you first to Patagonia and the cities of Punta Arenas and Puerto Natales, gateway to Torres del Paine National Park. Move on to the Lake District, side-tripping to the mythical island of Chiloé. Trek through native forests to waterfalls and marvel at volcanoes before heading back to Santiago, where the trip comes to a close.

Lake Pehoé, Torres del Paine National Park
Map of Chile Grand Tour: Santiago, Torres del Paine & Easter Island - 15 Days
Chile Grand Tour: Santiago, Torres del Paine & Easter Island - 15 Days

Outdoor adventurers rejoice—this curated 15-day itinerary immerses you in the unparalleled natural beauty of Chile. First, you'll head to the far north of the country and tour the otherworldly landscapes of the Atacama Desert. Then it's off to Patagonia and Torres del Paine National Park, home to the most awe-inspiring mountains and unspoiled nature in Chile. You'll then finish the journey far west in the Pacific, amid the mysterious stone idols of Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island.

Laguna de los Tres
Map of Santiago & Patagonia: From Chile to Argentina - 13 Days
Santiago & Patagonia: From Chile to Argentina - 13 Days

Few other places in the world can compete with the wild, jagged mountains, incredible glaciers, and enormous panoramas of Patagonia. On this ultimate 13-day adventure, enjoy the best of the region. Following a quick tour of Santiago and a day along the coast, fly to Chilean Patagonia. Embark on the famed W Trek, a four-day hike that covers the furthest reaches of Torres del Paine National Park. Then, bus over to Argentinian Patagonia to view Perito Moreno Glacier and iconic Mount Fitz Roy.

Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia
Map of W Trek & Central Chile Adventure - 14 Days
W Trek & Central Chile Adventure - 14 Days

It's unlikely you'll ever pack so much culture, nature, and adventure on a two-week holiday then you will with this 14-day Chilean itinerary. It starts with a culinary tour of Santiago, where you'll delve into the culture of the city one bite at a time. Then it's off to Torres del Paine, one of Chile's premier national parks and a must-visit destination for trekkers from across the globe. You'll then head to northern Patagonia to experience less-visited but equally beautiful Aysén region. Pack your winter gear, because things are going to get cold on this intrepid adventure you won't soon forget.

Lake Pehoe, Torres del Paine National Park
Map of Best of Chile - 9 Days
Best of Chile - 9 Days

Explore two spectacular regions of Chile where few travelers venture on this 9-day itinerary. After checking out Santiago, you'll fly to the Atacama desert—an oasis in the driest part in the world known for geysers, salt flats, and starry skies. From here, head to Patagonia where you'll experience Torres del Paine National Park via a range of activities while staying in a fully sustainable EcoCamp.

Cuernos del Paine in Torres del Paine National Park
Map of Santiago & W Trek Adventure - 10 Days
Santiago & W Trek Adventure - 10 Days

If you're looking to explore Chilean culture and experience the rugged landscapes of Patagonia, then this itinerary is right for you. Start your adventure in the capital city of Santiago and explore the city's markets, skyscrapers, and parks. Next, head to the coast to experience the vibrant and colorful cities of Valparaíso and Viña del Mar. Then, venture south to Patagonia for a visit to Torres del Paine National Park - one of the most beautiful protected areas in the world. Here, you'll head out on a 4-day version of the famed "W" circuit trek to take in the stunning beauty of Patagonia on foot.

The Moon Valley, Atacama Desert
Map of Chile's Beaches & Natural Wonders - 12 Days
Chile's Beaches & Natural Wonders - 12 Days

Stretching thousands of miles in length, Chile can feel a world away with its mountains, glaciers, deserts, and rugged coastline. This 12-day trip hits the highlights with a series of unique guided tours. Move at a relaxed pace as you make your way from the Atacama Desert in the north, to Patagonia in the south. You'll also make urban stops in Santiago, Valparaiso, and upscale Viña del Mar for two days of beachy fun.

Moai statues on Easter Island
Map of Chile Highlights Adventure - 14 Days
Chile Highlights Adventure - 14 Days

The secret's out: Chile is one of the most naturally beautiful countries in Latin America, which places it high in the running for one of the most naturally beautiful countries in the world. This two-week adventure covers three of its most incredible regions. The first major stop on the itinerary is the northern Atacama Desert, which is famous for its lunar landscapes, steaming geysers, and expansive salt flats. Then it's off to Torres del Paine, the most-visited national park in Chilean Patagonia. Finally, you'll visit Rapa Nui, or Easter Island as its commonly known, to discover the secrets of its great stone idols.

Laguna Capri at the base of Mt. Fitz Roy
Map of Patagonia Adventure for Couples - 14 Days
Patagonia Adventure for Couples - 14 Days

This two-week itinerary explores Patagonia's most breathtaking sites at a relaxed pace while staying in comfortable accommodations. Kick off in Chile's capital before continuing south to Torres del Paine National Park for glaciers, turquoise lakes, and thrilling day hikes. Finish across the border in Argentine Patagonia for more glaciers and a secluded mountain lodge with a variety of outdoor activities, not to mention iconic views of Mt. Fitz Roy.

Torres del Paine
Patagonia Trekking & Vineyards -12 Days

Ever dreamed of embarking on an unforgettable mountain trek in Patagonia? Then this active 12-day itinerary is perfect for you. The journey begins with a tour of Santiago and the port city of Valparaiso, with a delicious wine tour in between. Then you'll head south to Patagonia and arrive at one of the greatest trekking sites in the world: Torres del Paine National park. Here you'll embark on the iconic W Trek, and spend five adventure-filled days amid the park's lakes, valleys, and glaciers. By the end of this excursion, you'll truly be able to say you did Patagonia right.

Wonders of Chile
Map of Wonders of Chile - 13 Days
Wonders of Chile - 13 Days

This 13-day itinerary covers the major highlights found in and around the Andes, including the northern Atacama Desert, the central Lake District, and Torres del Paine National Park. There's even a break to do some wine tasting in Chile's famous vineyards. This is a partial road trip, so you can set your own schedule and explore however and wherever you like.

Summer blooms in Torres del Paine
Map of Patagonia Adventure for Couples - 15 Days
Patagonia Adventure for Couples - 15 Days

Explore Patagonia's most breathtaking sites at a relaxed pace while staying in comfortable accommodations on this 15-day itinerary. Kick off in Chile's capital before continuing south to Torres del Paine National Park for glaciers, turquoise lakes, and thrilling day hikes. Finish across the border in Argentine Patagonia for more glaciers and a secluded mountain lodge with a variety of outdoor activities, not to mention iconic views of Mt. Fitz Roy.

Guanacos in Torres del Paine National Park
Map of Atacama Desert & W Trek Excursion - 11 Days
Atacama Desert & W Trek Excursion - 11 Days

Explore Chile's beautiful extremes on this 11-day itinerary. After getting a taste of Santiago, fly north to the Atacama desert—an oasis in the driest part in the world known for its geysers, moonscapes, and starry skies. Then, travel south to Patagonia's Torres del Paine National Park to challenge yourself on the W-trek, a world-famous route that will take you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes the park has to offer.

Chile Highlights Adventure - 12 Days
Map of Chile Highlights Adventure - 12 Days
Chile Highlights Adventure - 12 Days

This 12-day itinerary combines ancient culture and ancient landscapes with the profound natural beauty of Chilean Patagonia. From the northern deserts of the Atacama region to Torres del Paine National Park, you'll experience the full-spectrum of Chile's natural beauty. This also includes a jaunt to Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island. Here you'll walk in the footsteps of ancient cultures and marvel at the great stone idols—the moaia—that were built to honor ancient tribal chieftains and which still stand today.

Moon Valley in San Pedro de Atacama
Map of Chilean Deserts & Towers Excursion - 10 Days
Chilean Deserts & Towers Excursion - 10 Days

Experience Chile's beautiful extremes on this 10-day journey. Begin your adventure in the Atacama Desert - a region characterized by its lunar landscapes, geysers, salt flats, and starry skies. Next, head south to Patagonia to experience Torres del Paine National Park. Here, you'll enjoy an in-depth exploration of the park's natural beauty, including a hike to the base of the iconic towers, and an up-close look at the majestic Grey Glacier during a boat tour.

Los Torres in Torres del Paine National Park
Map of Santiago & Modified W Trek Adventure - 9 Days
Santiago & Modified W Trek Adventure - 9 Days

Discover the best of Chile's urban and natural landscapes on this 9-day adventure. Begin with a cultural exploration of Santiago on a full-day city tour. Next, head to the Maipo Valley to take in its stunning mountain landscapes while sipping Chilean wine. Then, venture south to Patagonia for a visit to the iconic Torres del Paine National Park. Here, you'll embark on a 4-day version of the famed "W" circuit trek—a multi-day hike featuring some of the park's most breathtaking scenery.