Highlights of Punta Arenas
Duration: 3 hours
Tour Code: PUN-1716
Discover the highlights of Punta Arenas during a scenic and informative tour of this historic city.
Depart the pier for the scenic drive through Punta Arenas, the capital of the Magallanes Region. Located near the Strait of Magellan, Punta Arenas is the world's most southerly city. Your first stop will be at Cerro la Cruz, where you will take in spectacular views and photo opportunities of the city, Magellan Strait, the port and legendary Tierra del Fuego Island. A visit will also be made at the Maggiorino Borgatello Museum. Founded by Salesian missionaries, the museum provides a comprehensive overview of the region's history, flora and fauna, and the habitat of its indigenous people.
Next, you will continue on for a visit to the Museum of Memories, or Museo del Recuerdo. This open-air museum is located on the grounds of the Patagonian Institute, the research center of the University of Magallanes. Here, you will find antique trains, machinery and relics of the European emigrants who first settled in this remote part of the world. During the drive back towards town, you will pass by a pioneer cemetery featuring avenues of tall cypress and splendid mausoleums. A solemn tombstone marks the place where the last of the now-extinct Ona Indians is buried.
Following your visit, you will re-board your coach for the return drive to the pier.
Please note: There is a long flight of stairs to reach some of the displays at the Maggiorino Borgatello Museum, and most explanations are written in Spanish only.