Punta Arenas on Foot
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Port
Punta Arenas, Chile
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$129.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximatey 3½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Use this walking tour to get closer to the locals and to appreciate Punta Arenas from a pedestrian perspective. This is a city populated by hard-working immigrant families who have braved the harsh nature of this southernmost end-of-the-world location.
Transfer by van or coach to Bulnes Avenue, where you'll find the Shepherd Monument honoring those who work the land of the local estancias or sheep farms.
A walk takes you past the local cemetery en route to the Maggiorino Borgatello Museum, founded by the Salesian missionaries. This 1,700-square-foot facility offers a comprehensive overview of the region's flora and fauna, the habitat and customs of the indigenous people, and post-settler history.
Head down Bories Street -- the main street leading through the downtown core -- to reach Plaza de Armas. This is the main square, where an imposing statue of Ferdinand Magellan looks towards the strait that bears his name. At the base of the monument sits a figure of a Patagonian native. Legend holds that if you kiss the toe of the statue, you will be immune to seasickness, travel calm waters, and return to Punta Arenas.
Watch for the Town Hall and the Union Club at Plaza de Armas, grouped together with the houses and palaces of the city's founders.
In the upper part of the city, take in the sweeping panoramic view from the Cerro de la Cruz Viewpoint, encompassing the city, the strait and the sprawling landscape of Patagonia.
Finally, enjoy a taste of local flavors with a delicious snack at a pioneer house that has been restored and refurbished and is living a new life as cafeteria
Notes:
It is essential that you wear warm, layered clothing to fully enjoy and participate in this excursion; outer layer should be waterproof and windproof. Bring gloves, a warm hat and a scarf. You must climb a long flight of stairs to reach some of the displays at the Maggiorino Borgatello Museum, and most of the exhibit interpretive panels are written in Spanish only.