Punta Arenas and Santiago are two of the most popular destinations in Chile. Situated in the far south and far north respectively, the two cities are separated by a distance of roughly 2,200 kilometers. Despite the great distance, the journey from Punta Arenas to Santiago is an epic journey that can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks to complete. For those looking to make the journey, here is a guide on how to get from one city to the other.
Where to Start?
The journey from Punta Arenas to Santiago starts in the far south of Chile. Punta Arenas is a vibrant and bustling port city situated right on the Strait of Magellan. It is the largest city in Patagonia, and it is a great place to experience the culture and natural beauty of the region. In order to make the journey to Santiago, travelers must first make their way to Puerto Natales, a small city situated about 200 kilometers north of Punta Arenas.
What to Do in Puerto Natales?
Puerto Natales is a great place to explore the wonders of Patagonia. The city is situated on the edge of the beautiful Seno de Ultima Esperanza (Last Hope Sound), which is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the world. From Puerto Natales, travelers can also explore some of the region’s iconic national parks, such as Torres del Paine, which is home to some of the highest peaks in the area. After a few days of exploration, travelers can then make their way to the next stop on their journey, Punta Arenas.
Crossing the Strait of Magellan
After a few days of exploration, travelers will then make their way to the Strait of Magellan. This is a narrow stretch of water that separates the mainland of Chile from Tierra del Fuego, an archipelago at the tip of South America. It is a treacherous stretch of water, and it is not recommended to cross it without a guide or a boat. Fortunately, there are a few companies that offer boat tours of the Strait, which will take travelers to the other side in a matter of hours.
Getting to Santiago by Land
Once travelers have crossed the Strait of Magellan, they will then have to make their way north by land. Fortunately, there are a few major highways that connect the south of Chile with Santiago. The roads are winding and mountainous, and the journey can take anywhere from two days to a week, depending on the route taken. The journey is a great way to experience the beauty of the Chilean countryside and to get a taste of the culture of the region.
Alternative Routes
For those looking for a more direct route, there are a few other options available. One of the most popular routes is to take a flight from Punta Arenas to Santiago. This is the most direct way to get to Santiago, and it can take anywhere from two hours to three days, depending on the airline and the route taken. Another option is to take a ferry from Punta Arenas to Puerto Montt, which is a coastal city in the south of Chile. From there, travelers can then make their way north by land or by air.
Conclusion
No matter which route travelers choose, the journey from Punta Arenas to Santiago is an epic adventure that will take them through some of the most beautiful places in the world. It is a journey that will take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, and it is a great way to experience the culture and beauty of Chile. So, if you’re looking to make the journey from Punta Arenas to Santiago, this guide should help you plan your trip.