South America & the Chilean Fjords

  • From AU$12,045
  • |
  • 18 Days
  • |
  • 8 Guided Tours
  • |
  • 4 Countries

Punta Arenas, Chile

  • Historic mansion with ornate architecture

Punta Arenas was founded as a penal colony by Chile in 1848. Nestled amid spectacular mountain vistas on the eastern shores of the Brunswick Peninsula, it played host to mariners crossing the continent by ship. Europeans followed, searching for newly discovered gold and establishing vast swaths of sheep farms locally and throughout the surrounding region. Over time, Punta Arenas became one of Chile’s most important ports as, before the opening of the Panama Canal, it laid on the northernmost transcontinental shipping route.

Shore Excursions

Shore excursions vary by each itinerary and are subject to change.

Bronze statue of explorer amidst trees

Punta Arenas by Foot

Discover the frontier spirit of Punta Arenas, the largest city in southern Patagonia.

Included
Sailing ship mast with rigging ropes

Punta Arenas & Magellan’s Discovery

Explore the world’s most southerly city and discover the history of the globe’s first oceanic circumnavigation.

Red and White Passenger Ferry on Open Water

Magdalena Island & Penguin Reserve by Boat

Sail one of the world’s most southerly straits to explore the islands of the Los Pingüinos Natural Monument.

Flock of sheep grazing in a field

Patagonian Farm Experience

Learn about the lives and work of the Chilean sheep farmers that settled the distant lands of southern Patagonia.

Historic cannons overlooking scenic landscape

Strait of Magellan Park

Explore the majestic scenery of the Strait of Magellan and learn about the history of its early settlements.

Magellanic penguin in natural habitat

Magdalena Island & Penguin Reserve by Catamaran

Cruise to Magdalena Island to observe one of the world’s largest colonies of Magellanic penguins.

Historic mansion with ornate architecture

Heritage of Patagonia

Gain insight into Punta Arenas during visits to a museum, a historic mansion and a panoramic viewpoint.

Soaring condor over mountain landscape

Condors of Patagonia

Admire the majestic Andean condor, the largest flying bird in the world, in its natural habitat.

Scenic city plaza with statue and trees

Punta Arenas Sights & Patagonian Asado

Experience the iconic sights of Punta Arenas and savor the taste of a delicious lamb asado, or barbecue.

Historic cannons overlooking scenic lake

Hike Magellan’s Strait Park

Lace up your hiking shoes as you set out to explore the Strait of Magellan Park and Fort Bulnes.

Shore excursions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.