Punta Arenas

Punta Arenas is the southernmost city on Earth, overlooking the Straits of Magellan. Situated astride one of the world's historic trade routes, its prosperity has risen and fallen with that trade.Today, Punto Arenas reflects a great mix of cultures, from English sheep ranchers to Portuguese sailors, and it remains an utterly fascinating testament to the Chile's rich history. Punta Arenas is also the starting point for excursions to some of the most spectacular scenery in the world.

Attractions

Once a stop for sailing ships rounding Cape Horn, Punta Arenas is the largest city in lower Patagonia. Local museums, housed in former mansions, honor the area´a cultural and natural history. Savor seafood specialties or seek out wood and shell carvings in the duty-free zone. Explore the town and its history and enjoy stunning views over the Strait of Magellan to fabled Tierra del Fuego. Discover the scenic Patagonian countryside and visit a local sheep farm. The highlight is the Magellanic penguin rookery at Otway Sound.

Shopping

Leather goods, sheepskin, hand-woven rugs and hand-knit sweaters are good buys. The main shopping area is around Plaza de Armas. Some stores close between 1:30 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. A duty-free zone (Zona Franca) is located a 15-minute taxi ride from town. It offers imported goods such as crystal, Lladro figurines, cigarettes, cameras and perfumes at duty-free prices.

Food

Seafood and lamb are your best choices here. Empanadas, the delicious turnovers, go well with a glass of Chilean wine or the national drink, pisco sour. You can dine in rustic seafood restaurants or the more refined hotel restaurants, such as the José Nogueira, Cabo de Hornos or Los Navegantes.

Currency

Chile's national currency is the Chilean Peso ($).

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