Punta Arenas is the town that visitors to Torres del Paine usually fly into, but it's also a destination in itself, attracting wildlife enthusiasts keen to spot two different species of penguins and humpback whales. Located on the shores of the historic Strait of Magellan and from where Shackleton planned his rescue mission, there are several good quality, centrally located hotels, some lovely boutique hotels and terrific seafood restaurants.
Hotel Almasur, previously the 'Rey Don Felipe', is set back a little from the hustle and bustle of the centre on a quiet road, but still only a five-minute walk from the main square of Punta Arenas and the Strait.
A 4-star refurbished classic of the city, it's a comfortable and convenient resting spot. The helpful staff will ease the stress of travelling and recommend some great eateries nearby. There is Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, as well as a gym and a spa. The breakfast is very good too!
A centrally-located hotel, right on the main square, with views of the Magellan Strait. It's a five-minute walk from the bus station, port, and main high street for restaurants.
Cabo de Hornos has a polished, business-like feel to it and is a perfect base for those looking for something classic and comfortable. The food is not outstanding, but there are lots of other options on your doorstep.
Situated right on the main square, this hotel is in a fantastic central location, just five minutes walk from the main street of restaurants and cafes, the bus station and the port.
It has a slightly less polished feel than the other upmarket hotels in the town but is in a beautiful old building with more character than the other upmarket options.
The modern one of the bunch, Hotel Dreams is characterised by its glassy architecture and bustling, large hotel feel. There is a clear emphasis on fun with live evening performances, a fantastic Sky Bar on the eleventh floor and the southernmost casino in the world (in Chile, at least).
Guests can also relax in the hydra spa and swim in the infinity swimming pool which flaunts the hotel's privileged views of the Strait of Magellan and Tierra del Fuego and the Mirador Hill ski slopes beyond.
Many of the hotels in Punta Arenas are located right on the central square near to the main street full of restaurants. The smaller, more characterful hotels tend to be a little further out, but offer a peaceful refuge from the hustle and bustle, and a more unique experience.
Our favourite location in the city. A quirky 1920s heritage house in the foothills of Cerro de la Cruz with lovely views over the Magellan Strait.
Yegua Loca is furnished with authentic vintage furniture and decorations, refurbished by hand by the hotel's friendly owners and each room is themed on a traditional Patagonian trade.
It's only a few minutes walk from the main street and the waterfront, and is next to the walkway to Mirador de la Cruz where you can take in panoramic views of the city and Magellan Strait.
Review:
Each Punta Arenas hotel is very distinct and with its own character. I love the view and traditional feel at Yegua Loca and would recommend anyone who wants to feel like they're truly in Patagonia stays there.
Carys Siney Senior Patagonia & Polar Regions Specialist
A great budget option for travellers who want to be well-located between the main square and the cemetery and not too far from some good restaurants and the Strait of Magellan.
The rooms are compact, but perfect for a short stay in the city and with the friendly hotel staff, you'll feel well looked after.
Clean and comfortable, the Carpa Manzano offers few surprises, as would be expected at this price point. Guests, however, repeatedly note the particularly helpful staff that work here.
It is a little out of town – fifteen minutes from the main square and a fifteen-minute drive from the airport. The dining area is lovely and open, with views over the town. Although the rooms are basic, they have everything you need.
There are regular daily buses from Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales for around $20 USD per person.
From Puerto Natales, you can reach Torres del Paine by bus, or join a group that departs from Natales (most of them do). If you want to stay in one of the luxury hotels in Torres del Paine, most of them include transfers all the way from Punta Arenas.
If you want to be within walking distance of shops, bars and restaurants then staying near the central plaza is ideal.
For better views, or more peace and quiet you might prefer one of the more peripheral hotels (still only 10-15 minutes from the centre). If you're taking a cruise, it's often nice to be located close to the pier, so anywhere near or to the west of the central plaza is ideal.
Yes, contrary to popular belief, there are some wonderful excursions from Punta Arenas, most notably an incredible humpback whale feeding area that can be visited as a one, three or seven-day trip by boat, and also a very special King Penguin colony, the only one outside of Antarctica.
There are also some interesting local attractions including museums, a microbrewery, a cemetery and some viewpoints to walk to.
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Next we'll discuss the options, shortlist the best trips for you and present you our impartial recommendations.
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