Punta Arenas is said to be the most southerly city on the planet. Prior to the opening of the Panama canal, the city on the Strait of Magellan was an important port shaped by a colourful mix of European immigrants. Luxurious villas owned by the sheep farming barons around the plaza line the city. The view over the colourful rooftops stretches across the Strait of Magellan to Tierra del Fuego. In the Summer people meet at the plaza, where large trees provide some much-welcomed shade.

Tips for excursions

Magdalena Island

The excursion begins with a ferry trip of about an hour over the Straits of Magellan to Magdalena Island. This island is home to unspoilt nature and the habitats of numerous species of animal, including thousands of Magellan penguins and other seabirds which can be observed in their natural surroundings.