Puerto Natales, Chile Travel Guide

Discover Puerto Natales, the enchanting gateway to Patagonia's natural wonders, offering stunning landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable adventures.

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Puerto Natales

Nestled between the Last Hope Sound and the towering Andes, Puerto Natales is a charming town in southern Chile. This picturesque city serves as the primary gateway to the world-renowned Torres del Paine National Park. Its unique location offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, glistening fjords, and expansive pampas. Whether you're an adventure seeker or a nature lover, Puerto Natales has something for everyone. The city itself is filled with cozy cafes, vibrant street art, and friendly locals who are always ready to share their stories. As you stroll along the waterfront, you'll be greeted by stunning vistas that change with the light and weather, making every moment unique. Puerto Natales is also a culinary delight, with local restaurants offering fresh seafood and traditional Patagonian dishes. Don't miss the opportunity to try King Crab, also known as Centolla, which is a local delicacy. For those interested in history, a visit to the Municipal Historical Museum will provide insights into the region's indigenous cultures and the early settlers. The true magic of Puerto Natales lies in its proximity to natural wonders. From here, you can embark on treks to the Torres del Paine, explore the Milodon Cave, or take a boat trip through the fjords to see glaciers up close. Each adventure offers a unique perspective on the raw beauty of Patagonia, making Puerto Natales a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and excitement.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Puerto Natales.

Best time to visit: November to March for warmer weather and longer daylight hours.
Currency: Make sure to have some Chilean Pesos (CLP) as not all places accept credit cards.
Language: While Spanish is the official language, some locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.
Packing: Bring layers and waterproof gear, as the weather can be unpredictable.
Local delicacy: Try the Centolla (King Crab) at a local restaurant for an authentic culinary experience.
Transportation: Buses are the primary mode of transport to Torres del Paine; book in advance during peak season.
Wi-Fi: Available in most hotels and cafes, but connectivity can be spotty in remote areas.

Explore Puerto Natales: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Puerto Natales

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Mylodon Cave Natural Monument

Explore the breathtaking Mylodon Cave Natural Monument in Chile, where nature’s beauty meets a rich prehistoric heritage.

4.7

Municipal Historical Museum

Explore the rich heritage of Puerto Natales at the Municipal Historical Museum, where history comes alive through captivating exhibits and local stories.

4.6

Last Hope Distillery

Experience the essence of Patagonia at Last Hope Distillery in Puerto Natales, where craft spirits meet breathtaking landscapes.

4.9

Costanera De Puerto Natales, Seno de Última Esperanza.

Explore the breathtaking Costanera de Puerto Natales, a scenic waterfront promenade offering stunning views, local culture, and outdoor activities.

4.7

Best landmarks in Puerto Natales

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Mylodon Cave Natural Monument

Discover the ancient wonders of Mylodon Cave Natural Monument, a breathtaking national park in Patagonia, Chile, filled with history and natural beauty.

4.7

Mesita Grande

Savor the authentic taste of Italy at Mesita Grande, Puerto Natales' premier destination for mouth-watering pizzas and delightful Italian dishes.

4.5

Plaza de Armas Arturo Prat

Discover the vibrant heart of Puerto Natales at Plaza de Armas Arturo Prat, surrounded by stunning Patagonian landscapes and local culture.

4.5

La Mano

Experience the breathtaking La Mano sculpture in Puerto Natales, a symbol of human connection to nature amidst stunning Patagonian landscapes.

4.4

Best restaurants in Puerto Natales

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restaurante La Picada De Carlitos

Experience authentic Chilean cuisine at Restaurante La Picada De Carlitos in Puerto Natales, where flavor meets tradition in a cozy atmosphere.

4.2

Mesita Grande

Discover the flavors of Italy at Mesita Grande in Puerto Natales—where unique pizzas meet local ingredients in a cozy atmosphere.

4.5

LA GUANACA PIZZERIA

Discover the authentic taste of Italy at La Guanaca Pizzeria, where every bite transports you to culinary bliss amidst the beauty of Puerto Natales.

4.6

Restaurante el Bote Cerveza Natales

Discover authentic Patagonian flavors at Restaurante el Bote Cerveza Natales - where culinary artistry meets local tradition.

4.3

Best bars in Puerto Natales

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Mesita Grande

Discover the best gourmet pizzas in Puerto Natales at Mesita Grande, where authentic Italian flavors meet local charm.

4.5

Baguales Brewpub

Discover the flavors of Patagonia at Baguales Brewpub, a cozy gastropub in Puerto Natales serving local craft beers and gourmet dishes.

4.5

LA GUANACA PIZZERIA

Discover LA GUANACA PIZZERIA in Puerto Natales, where delicious pizzas meet the stunning landscapes of Patagonia in a warm, inviting atmosphere.

4.6

Restaurante el Bote Cerveza Natales

Experience the authentic taste of Patagonia at Restaurante el Bote Cerveza Natales, where local ingredients meet a warm atmosphere.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Puerto Natales

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The Singing Lamb - Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite flavors at The Singing Lamb in Puerto Natales, a must-visit bar and restaurant in Patagonia.

4.6

CLUB CALAFATE RESTOBAR

Experience the vibrant culinary scene of Puerto Natales at CLUB CALAFATE RESTOBAR, where local flavors meet a lively atmosphere.

4.5

Ice Bar Natales

Discover the unique Ice Bar Natales, where cocktails meet creativity in a stunning ice-themed environment, perfect for adventurous tourists.

4.5

Bar de PAPURRI DISCOTEQUE

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Bar de PAPURRI DISCOTEQUE in Puerto Natales, where music, dance, and fun await every night.

4.9

Best shops in Puerto Natales

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Pueblo Artesanal. Artesanías De La Patagonia.

Explore Pueblo Artesanal in Puerto Natales, a shopping haven for authentic Patagonian crafts and vibrant local culture.

4.4

Mall Chino Moda

Explore Mall Chino Moda in Puerto Natales for unique home goods reflecting the charm of Patagonia's vibrant culture and craftsmanship.

3.9

One Aco Outdoorshop

Explore Patagonia with style and confidence at One Aco Outdoorshop, your one-stop destination for quality outdoor gear in Puerto Natales.

4.4

PASEO SELKNAM

Explore the vibrant Paseo Selknam in Natales—where shopping, dining, and outdoor adventures meet in the stunning Magallanes region.

4.6

Explore Puerto Natales on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Puerto Natales, mapped for you.

Puerto Natales Essentials

Puerto Natales is located in the southern part of Chile's Patagonia region. The nearest major airport is Presidente Carlos Ibáñez del Campo International Airport (PUQ) in Punta Arenas, approximately 250 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a bus, which takes around 3 hours, or hire a taxi for a more direct route. Additionally, there are regular bus services from other Patagonian towns such as El Calafate in Argentina, which is a popular route for those combining their visit with a trip to Los Glaciares National Park.
Once in Puerto Natales, the town is small enough to explore on foot. For trips outside the town, such as to Torres del Paine National Park, there are several bus companies offering regular services. Taxis are available and can be a convenient way to get around, though renting a car offers more flexibility for exploring the surrounding areas at your own pace. Bicycles can also be rented for those who prefer to explore on two wheels.
The official currency in Chile is the Chilean Peso (CLP). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and for bus fares. ATMs are available in Puerto Natales, but be aware that some may charge fees for withdrawals. It's wise to have some local currency on hand when you first arrive.
Puerto Natales is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 133 to reach the police, 131 for medical emergencies, and 132 for the fire department. The local hospital, Hospital Dr. Augusto Essmann, can handle most medical issues. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies in town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress in layers and be prepared for sudden weather changes. Avoid wearing overly flashy jewelry. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. While there are no specific religious practices you need to be aware of, it is always polite to be respectful. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. A simple 'Hola' suffices. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies such as lamb and king crab. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Puerto Natales like a local, visit the local markets such as the Feria Artesanal, where you can buy handmade crafts and fresh produce. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss out on trying the local lamb barbecue, known as 'asado'. For a unique experience, take a boat trip to the Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers, or explore the cave of the Milodon, a prehistoric giant sloth.

When is the best time to visit Puerto Natales?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Puerto Natales

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Puerto Natales. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
- GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dyohs]
- YesSí
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vor/deh nah-dah]
- Thank youGracias
  [grah-syahs]
- Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lamento
  [pehr-dohn/lah-mehn-toh]
- How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
- Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byen. ee too]
- Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
- I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tyen-doh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-reeah behr ehl meh-noo, pohr fah-vor]
- I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
- I would like to pay, pleaseQuisiera pagar, por favor
  [kee-syeh-rah pah-gahr, pohr fah-vor]
- Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
- Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
- Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
- Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico!
  [yah-mah ah oon meh-dee-koh]
- I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh]
- I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]
- I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goos-tah-reeah kohm-prahr]
- I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy meer-ahn-doh]
- How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
- That's too expensiveEso es demasiado caro
  [eh-soh ehs deh-mah-syah-doh kah-roh]
- Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?
  [pweh-dehs bah-hahr ehl preh-syoh]
- What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
- It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
- Half past (10)Y media (10)
  [ee meh-dee-ah (diez)]
- MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
- EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
- YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
- TodayHoy
  [oy]
- TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
- 2Dos
  [dohs]
- 3Tres
  [trehs]
- 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
- 6Seis
  [seys]
- 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
- 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
- 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
- 10Diez
  [dyehs]
- Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
- What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syon]
- Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksy-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ....)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah)]

History of Puerto Natales

Puerto Natales was officially founded on May 31, 1911. The area was initially discovered by European explorers, but it wasn't until the early 20th century that the town was established to support the burgeoning sheep-farming industry. The establishment of the Sociedad Explotadora de Tierra del Fuego played a significant role in the town's early development.
During the early 20th century, Puerto Natales became a crucial hub for the sheep farming industry. The town's economy flourished as it became a primary point of export for wool and mutton. Large estancias (ranches) were established around the area, contributing to significant economic growth and the development of local infrastructure.
The region around Puerto Natales has been inhabited by indigenous groups for thousands of years, primarily the Kawésqar and Aonikenk peoples. These groups lived a nomadic lifestyle, relying on the abundant natural resources of the area. Their rich cultural heritage is still evident today through various local traditions, artifacts, and museums.
In recent decades, Puerto Natales has transformed into a gateway for adventurers heading to the Torres del Paine National Park. The town's strategic location and stunning natural landscapes have made it an essential stop for tourists seeking outdoor activities like trekking, kayaking, and mountaineering. This shift has brought about significant changes in the local economy and infrastructure.
During World War II, Puerto Natales played a unique role as a neutral port that provided refuge for ships from various nations. The town's remote location made it a relatively safe haven during the global conflict. This period also saw an increase in the town's strategic importance for maritime activities.
Puerto Natales hosts a variety of cultural festivals that celebrate its rich heritage. One of the most notable events is the 'Fiesta de la Patria,' which showcases traditional music, dance, and cuisine. The town also celebrates 'Día del Pescador,' honoring its maritime roots with boat parades and seafood feasts.
In recent years, Puerto Natales has become a focal point for environmental conservation efforts. Various local and international organizations have been working to protect the pristine landscapes and diverse ecosystems of the region. Initiatives include sustainable tourism practices and conservation projects aimed at preserving the area's natural beauty for future generations.