This exclusive tour is designed to allow you the chance to discover the most interesting sites in the area at your own pace with the comfort and privacy of your own vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide.

Fort Bulnes in the Strait of Magellan Park

We will start the day with a one-hour drive south of Punta Arenas to arrive at Fort Bulnes, located in the Strait of Magellan Park, offering fascinating insights into both the motivations of the region’s predominantly Eastern European settlers and the struggles of the remarkably resilient indigenous inhabitants. Founded in 1843 under the command of President Manuel Bulnes, the fort was abandoned and burned down six years later, due to the challenging living conditions and the harsh terrain. In 1943, the fort was reconstructed and it was fully restored in 2002.  As you explore the grounds, learn about the original construction of the buildings, manufactured from logs, dirt and bricks made of grass. See the small church and chaplain’s quarters, and visit the jail, post office and stables. Discover the barracks and log cabins at this historic military outpost and imagine living within its defensive walls as you enjoy fabulous views of the Strait of Magellan!

Lookout at Cerro de la Cruz Hill

Then, we will return to Punta Arenas and visit Cerro de la Cruz Hill, where you will enjoy panoramic views of the city, Strait of Magellan, and Tierra del Fuego.  Here, you will have an opportunity to have lunch (not included).

Plaza de Armas

Next stop, the city’s Plaza de Armas, where you will see a statue of Ferdinand Magellan gazing out to the Strait, which features a number of figures at its base, including a mermaid and an indigenous male whose leg and foot dangle down the base. His foot has been touched so often that the bronze is burnished a shining gold. Legend has it that touching his foot is good luck and means you will return someday to Punta Arenas.

Waterfront

After strolling around the plaza, which also contains various handicraft stands for souvenir shopping, we will head to the Costanera, a boardwalk along the Strait of Magellan.

Sara Braun Municipal Cemetery

Lastly, we will visit the Sara Braun Municipal Cemetery. The cemetery tells the story of the early settlers to the area. The beautiful mausoleums of the wealthy rival those of the Recoleta in Buenos Aires.  Here you will find the tomb of the Indio Desconocido or “Unknown Indian.” His body was found on an island in 1929 and brought here. Rumors began that he had miraculous powers so people started leaving money at the grave asking for special favors. The money was collected and eventually a bronze statue was placed on his grave.  The last member of the Selk’nam indigenous tribe is also buried here.

Please note:

(1) The order of sites visited may vary.

(2) The weather can vary from one minute to another.  It is recommended that you bring a jacket or rain coat.