Puerto Natales - Discovering Chile

Travelling to Puerto Natales

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Puerto Natales, a pretty good destination in Chile (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Puerto Natales and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Puerto Natales, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Chile, here's everything to know about Puerto Natales for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Puerto Natales

Puerto Natales is a small coastal city located in the south of Chile, near the famous Torres del Paine National Park. It is known for its breathtaking natural scenery, including snowcapped mountains, glaciers, and fjords. The city serves as a gateway for tourists who visit the national park, and it offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and horseback riding. Puerto Natales also has a bustling waterfront with seafood restaurants, bars, and small boutiques. The city has a rich cultural history, with influences from the indigenous Tehuelche people and European immigrants who settled in the area during the 20th century.

What to visit in Puerto Natales

Sure, here are some of the biggest tourist attractions in Puerto Natales, Chile: 1. Torres del Paine National Park: One of Chile's most popular national parks, Torres del Paine is known for its stunning landscape with glaciers, lakes, forests, and mountains. It's a great place for hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting. 2. Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers: Visitors can take a boat tour from Puerto Natales to visit these impressive glaciers, which are located in the Bernardo O'Higgins National Park. 3. Milodon Cave Natural Monument: This cave is named after the milodon, an extinct mammal that was discovered here in the late 19th century. Visitors can explore the cave and learn about its history and geological features. 4. Puerto Natales Plaza de Armas: This is the main square of Puerto Natales, and it's a great place to relax and people-watch. The square is surrounded by historic buildings and shops selling souvenirs and handicrafts. 5. Museo Histórico Municipal: This local museum houses exhibits about the history and culture of Puerto Natales and the surrounding region. There are displays of artifacts, photographs, and documents that date back to the area's indigenous peoples, as well as to the early settlers and explorers. 6. Mirador Cerro Dorotea: This lookout point offers panoramic views of Puerto Natales and the surrounding countryside. It's a great place to take photos and see the city from a different perspective. 7. Cueva del Milodon Restaurant: Located next to the Milodon Cave, this restaurant offers traditional Chilean cuisine and is known for its fresh seafood dishes. Overall, Puerto Natales is a great destination for outdoor lovers, history buffs, and foodies alike.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Chile, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Puerto Natales.

When to go on holiday to Puerto Natales

The best time to visit Puerto Natales is during the summer months of December to February when the weather is mild with temperatures ranging between 10°C to 20°C. This is the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowded attractions. However, if you prefer quieter surroundings and don't mind slightly cooler temperatures, visiting Puerto Natales during the shoulder season of September to November and March to May is a great option. During these months, the weather is still pleasant with fewer crowds and cheaper prices. It is worth noting that the winter months of June to August are very cold and often experience snow and strong winds. However, this can be a great time to visit if you enjoy winter sports such as skiing or snowboarding.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Puerto Natales

Puerto Natales is located in the southern part of Chile and can be reached by air or bus.
By air: The nearest airport to Puerto Natales is the Presidente Carlos Ibáñez del Campo International Airport in Punta Arenas. From the airport, you can take a bus or a private transfer service that will take you directly to Puerto Natales. The drive takes about 3 hours.
By bus: Many companies offer bus transportation from major cities such as Santiago or Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales. The main bus terminal in Puerto Natales is located in the city center, and it is only a short walk to most hotels and hostels.
It is important to book in advance, especially during high season (December through February), as seats can fill up quickly. However, the bus is a cost-effective and convenient option for getting to Puerto Natales.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Puerto Natales, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Puerto Natales

Here are some typical foods of Puerto Natales, Chile, with a short description for each of them: 1. Curanto - This is a traditional Chilean dish made with shellfish, meat and potatoes, wrapped in large leaves and cooked over hot stones.
2. Cordero al palo - This is a slow-cooked lamb which is roasted over an open fire for several hours, creating a tender and juicy meat that is full of flavour.
3. Centolla - This is a type of crab that is found in the cold waters of the Patagonian region. It is often served as a starter dish, either steamed or in a salad.
4. Empanadas - Empanadas are filled pastries that are popular throughout Latin America. In Puerta Natales, they are often filled with lamb, cheese, or seafood.
5. Asado - This is a traditional barbecue dish that involves the slow-cooking of various types of meats, such as beef, pork or chicken, over an open flame.
6. Calafate berry jam - The Calafate berry is a small, dark purple fruit that is native to Patagonia. It is often used to make a sweet and tangy jam that is often served with bread or cheese.
7. Sopaipillas - This is a type of fried bread that is served as a snack or side dish. It is made from a dough that is fried until it is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
You can find general info about typical foods in Chile here.

Is Puerto Natales an expensive destination for tourists?

Puerto Natales can be considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists, especially during high season. Prices for accommodation, food, and activities can be higher than in other parts of Chile. However, the cost of living may be lower than in other countries, so it depends on where you are coming from. It is advisable to plan your budget carefully, and book your accommodation and tours in advance to get better prices. Additionally, you may want to consider traveling during the shoulder season (late March to early May or September to early December), when prices are lower and there are fewer tourists.

Where to find accomodation in Puerto Natales

The best areas to find accommodation while visiting Puerto Natales, Chile are: 1. Downtown Puerto Natales: This is the most convenient area to stay in, as it offers easy access to shops, restaurants, and Puerto Natales' waterfront area.
2. Barrio Bellavista: This is a quiet and residential area, offering great views of the city and the mountains.
3. Barrio La Península: This area is located on a peninsula between the Señoret Channel and the Last Hope Sound, offering stunning views of the surrounding water and mountains.
4. Barrio Miraflores: This is a residential area located near the Milodon Cave Natural Monument - a popular tourist destination.
5. Puerto Bories: This is an eco-village located a few kilometers outside of Puerto Natales, offering unique and sustainable accommodation options.
You can check hotel prices at Puerto Natales here:
Booking.com

Is Puerto Natales a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, generally Puerto Natales is considered a safe place for tourists. However, just like any other city in the world, it is important to take common sense precautions to ensure your safety while traveling. It is recommended that you use a money belt or a hidden pouch to carry your money and passport, avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded or touristy areas. Additionally, be sure to research any potential scams or tourist traps in the area and avoid them. Overall, Puerto Natales is a beautiful destination with friendly locals, and you should have a safe and enjoyable trip as long as you take the necessary precautions.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Chile here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Puerto Natales.

What type of travelers will enjoy Puerto Natales the most?

Puerto Natales is a versatile destination that can be enjoyed by tourists of all types such as couples, young people, and families. It is primarily known for its proximity to the world-renowned Torres del Paine National Park and the stunning nature surrounding it. Hiking and trekking enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the park's trails with its breathtaking landscapes, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and turquoise lakes. Additionally, families can also enjoy outdoor activities such as kayaking, horse riding, or cycling. The town of Puerto Natales is also a charming place with a reasonable range of dining and shopping options, so it can be an excellent destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway or those looking for a cultural experience in Southern Chile.

How to get around Puerto Natales

In Puerto Natales, the most common way to move around is by walking, as the town is relatively small and easy to navigate. Alternatively, you can rent a bike or a car to explore the surrounding areas, such as Torres del Paine National Park. Public transportation options, such as buses and taxis, are also available.

What to see around Puerto Natales

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Puerto Natales: 1. Torres del Paine National Park: This is probably the most popular day trip destination from Puerto Natales. The park is famous for its stunning mountains, glaciers, and lakes.
2. Milodon Cave: This is a popular attraction located about 24 kilometers north of Puerto Natales. The cave is named after the giant ground sloth fossils that were found here in the early 20th century.
3. Sierra Dorotea: This is a beautiful mountain range about 15 kilometers from Puerto Natales. Visitors can take a climb the mountain and enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the area.
4. Puerto Prat: This is a small village located about an hour's drive away from Puerto Natales. It is known for its beautiful beach and clear waters.
5. The Last Hope Fjord: Located about an hour and a half away from Puerto Natales, this beautiful fjord is a great place for a relaxing boat trip.
6. Balmaceda Glacier: This is a glacier located in the Bernardo O'Higgins National Park, about 4 hours away from Puerto Natales. Although a long journey, it's definitely worth considering if you have more time, since it offers breathtaking views.
For every travel information about Chile you can click here.

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