Can You Enjoy Life in Puerto Natales? A Comprehensive Guide

If you are seeking an adventure, then visiting Puerto Natales in the Southern Region of Chile is the ideal choice. This town is famous for its scenic beauty surrounded by stunning mountains, blue glaciers, and clear waters. Many travelers may hesitate to visit it because of various reasons, such as the language barrier or lack of information on the place. Yet, these things never stop a true traveler from exploring, which makes Puerto Natales an innovative destination for those who want to experience unique things. In this blog post, we will answer the question, ‘Can you enjoy life in Puerto Natales?’ and provide you with all the necessary information for an unforgettable journey.

The Location of Puerto Natales

The town of Puerto Natales is located in the Southern Region of Chile. It is situated 247 km away from the city of Punta Arenas in the Chilean Patagonia. If you want to go there, you can fly to Punta Arenas and take a bus or a taxi to Puerto Natales. You can also take a direct bus from Santiago to Puerto Natales with a duration of approximately 26 hours.

The Climate in Puerto Natales

The climate in Puerto Natales is moderate and windy throughout the year, with a maximum temperature of 14 degrees Celsius in summer and 4 degrees Celsius in winter. The best time to visit Puerto Natales is from December to March, as this is the summer season when the weather is most favorable. During this period, the days are longer, and there is less rainfall.

The Accommodation in Puerto Natales

Puerto Natales is a well-developed town with a range of accommodation options. There are various hostels, hotels, and apartments catering to all budgets. The most popular hotels in Puerto Natales are Hotel Costaustralis, The Singular Patagonia, and Altiplanico Sur Hotel.

The Food in Puerto Natales

If you are a seafood lover, then you are in for a treat in Puerto Natales. Fresh seafood is readily available in this town, and you can relish the catch of the day in any of the local restaurants. Additionally, Chilean cuisine is known for being robust and flavorful, with dishes like ‘Empanadas’ and ‘Pastel de Choclo’ that are a must-try. You can also find various international cuisines, such as Italian, Spanish, and Asian.

The Attractions in Puerto Natales

There are several things to do in Puerto Natales, and we have listed some of the top ones below:

Trekking

One of the prime attractions of Puerto Natales is trekking. The town is surrounded by various trekking routes, and you can choose from any of them that fit your capabilities. The most popular ones are the ‘Torres del Paine,’ ‘Base de las Torres,’ and the ‘O Circuit.’

The Ultima Esperanza Sound Cruise

The Ultima Esperanza Sound Cruise is a six-hour boat ride that takes you to the Balmaceda and Serrano glaciers. You can indulge in the panoramic view of the glaciers and the stunning fjords. The boat ride also includes a stop at a local Estancia, where you can relish the succulent ‘cordero al palo,’ which is a traditional Patagonian dish.

The Cueva del Milodon

The Cueva del Milodon is a natural monument located 24 km from Puerto Natales. It is a natural cave of 200 meters in length and 30 meters in height, where the remains of the extinct Milodon were discovered. The cave also houses a small museum that explains the history of the place.

The Conclusion

In conclusion, Puerto Natales is a fantastic destination for adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts and foodies. The town may be challenging to reach, but the experience is worth it. There are affordable accommodation options, great food, and several attractions to keep you busy. So, pack your bags, and embark on a journey of a lifetime, because yes, you can enjoy life in Puerto Natales.

An Insider’s Guide to Enjoying Life in Puerto Natales

Nestled along the southern coast of Chile, Puerto Natales is a remote town that offers incredible experiences to those willing to venture beyond the beaten path. From awe-inspiring natural wonders to its unique culture, this destination has something to offer for every kind of traveler.

Hidden Gems

Apart from the famous Torres del Paine National Park, a lesser-known highlight of Puerto Natales is the Milodón Cave. This massive cave was once home to the prehistoric Milodón, an extinct giant sloth. Nowadays, visitors can explore the cave and learn more about the area’s geological and archaeological history. Another well-kept secret is the historic Puerto Bories, a traditional sheep farming and processing plant that has now been converted into an eco-museum.

Local Cuisine

When in Puerto Natales, indulging in its culinary delights is a must-do. Try the Magellanic lamb, a local specialty that is slow-roasted until it is meltingly tender and well-seasoned. Seafood lovers should grab a bite of king crab, ceviche, or hake fish, prepared fresh from the ocean. Make sure to also visit a local bakery to sample Dulce de Calafate, a traditional berry jam.

Culture Experiences

Puerto Natales is steeped in unique traditions and customs that are fascinating to explore. One highlight is the Tapati Rapa Nui festival, which is held every February and celebrates the Rapa Nui culture with extravagant displays of music, dance, and food. To get a glimpse of indigenous Patagonian culture, visit the Estancia La Peninsula to learn more about the Mapuchean culture and participate in horseback riding, trekking and fishing activities.

Local History

Puerto Natales is a treasure trove of history that dates back to the early 20th century. Visit the Nao Victoria Museum to get a firsthand experience of Magellan’s circumnavigation voyage. A visit to the historic Municipal Museum can also be enlightening as it offers a glimpse of how the town was shaped by the hand of time.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

One thing to try when in Puerto Natales is a sea kayaking adventure in the fjords of Eberhard or Last Hope Sound, paddling through channels, and watching sea lions, dolphins, and whales. A visit to the Balmaceda and Serrano glaciers, part of the Bernardo O’Higgins National Park, will also plenty of natural spectacles. Lastly, make a detour to the Torres del Paine Historical and Cultural Museum or the Sculpture walk, to catch a glimpse of the most unique and esoteric stories about Patagonia’s folklore.

In conclusion, whether you are in search of a peaceful retreat surrounded by Patagonian beauty or want to dive deep into the region’s culture and history, Puerto Natales is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Plan your next trip to Chile and add Puerto Natales to your bucket list.