PUNTA ARENAS
Punta Arenas is the capital city of the Chilean XII region and the Chilean Patagonia. This city captivates visitors with its pure air and the sophisticated European architecture. It is set on the banks of the Magellan Strait, with sheep farming and port tradition. This is Chile’s gateway to Antarctica.
There are several excursions to explore the main landmarks and points of interest in the region, including natural beauties to be explored by land, sea and air.
There is a wide range of possibilities for visitors to choose from. One of the highlights is the Magellan Regional Museum, a palace that was once home to the Braun Menendez family. The museum showcases the golden times of Magellan and travelers will find an incredible array of artifacts and pieces of furniture used by this family.
This city is the Chilean port of call of the Australis Cruise.
Climate in Punta Arenas
Summer temperatures, from December through February, average 17 ºC / 63 ºF with strong winds.
From March through May, temperatures drop, and June and July are the coldest months with milder winds though, with snow in the south and rainfall in the north.
Springtime weather conditions are variable and visitors have to be ready.
Highlights
Visit Magdalena Island during the penguin season.
Clothing
Comfortable clothes, light rain cape, sunglasses or sunscreen and sunblock protection.
Distances
Magdalena Island 35 km / 22 mi
Puerto Natales 248 km / 154 mi
Torres del Paine 318 km / 198 mi
Santiago de Chile 3023 km / 1878 mi