Guide to Chilean Patagonia

The Patagonia Region

Patagonia is a region which runs through southern Chile and Argentina....The main attraction in Chilean Patagonia is Torres Del Paine National Park. Attracting over 250,000 visitors each year, the park offers a wide range of sites and adventures for all budgets and travel styles. Check out my Guide and Itinerary for Torres Del Paine National Park here.

Puerto Natales is the town where most busses and tours to Torres Del Paine National Park leave from. You virtually cannot get to Torres Del Paine without first going through Puerto Natales and I recommend spending at least two days exploring the charming town before or after visiting Torres Del Paine.

Getting To Puerto Natales

From the United States, I won't lie - the trip is long and requires several modes of transportation. My journey began with a flight from Washington, DC to New York, NY. I then flew 10.5 hours from JFK to Santiago, Chile. After arriving in Santiago, I took a 4 hour connecting flight to Punta Arenas. The last leg of the trip involved a 2.5 hour bus ride from the Punta Arenas airport to Puerto Natales. From Puerto Natales you are a 3.5 hour bus ride to the entrance of Torres Del Paine National Park.

Best Time to Visit

The Southern Hemisphere experiences summer from November to March. During this time, the weather is mild compared to the rest of the year and ideal for exploring Torres Del Paine National Park and other attractions. I visited in January and experienced mild days with the average temperature around 50-55 degrees Fahrenheit. Nights were cooler and quite windy.

Where to Stay in Puerto Natales

Erratic Rock- Hostel featuring shared and private accommodations. The accommodations are inexpensive and there is very knowledgeable staff of locals and hikers ready to help you plan your adventure. The shared kitchen and eating area is great for meeting other travelers and planning your trip! Next door, their restaurant, Base Camp, offers daily information sessions on Torres Del Paine and rents gear to hikers.

The Singular Patagonia- The Singular Patagonia is an upper-scale property boasting a restaurant, bar, scenic views, and vast history. The hotel was built on the former Puerto Bories Cold Storage Plant and still includes a museum for guests to visit.

Where to Eat & Drink

Puerto Natales is known for its abundance of seafood, specifically a variety of salmon dishes. Lamb is also a must try while in Puerto Natales! Check out some of my favorite restaurants below:

1. Cafeteria Cangrejo Rojo- Try one of the many scallop dishes!

2. Café Kaiken- A little more fancy (for the area) Try one of the great salmon dishes, including the Salmon Ravioli.

3. The Singular Patagonia Restaurant- Located in the Singular Hotel, the restaurant is more upscale and offers high tea, coffee, smoothies, a bar, and high end meals. Try the Lamb!

4. Cervecería Baguales- A great chill hangout spot offering brews, appetizers, and pub food. Great place to meet other travelers and hangout.

5. Base Camp- Located next to the Erratic Rock Hostel, offering pizza, tacos, and other quick bites.

6. La Picada de Carlitos- A casual Chilean BBQ spot.

What to Do While in Puerto Natales

1. Check out the Singular Patagonia Hotel including the museum - museo Historic e Industrial Puerto Bories

2. Shop for Souvenirs- check out the little market called "Pueblo artesanal Etherh Aike." Features local crafters and sellers. Make sure to pick up something made of sheep or alpaca wool. I still wear my pull-over sweater I purchased in Puerto Natales from 4 years ago!

3. Muelle Historico/Monumneto de la Mano- These landmarks are within walking distance from town and offer beautiful sights and scenery.

4. Torres Del Paine Day Tours- It is possible to do a day tour to Torres Del Paine from Puerto Natales, however these tours require a lot of travel time and last 12-15hrs fitting in so much into one day.