Exploring Punta Arenas: A Gateway to Antarctica

January 9, 2025. Punta Arenas, Chile

We have arrived at the end of the world, well not quite but at least that is what they call it. We anchored off the coast of Punta Arenas, Chile, a gateway port to the Antarctica. We were off the ship by 8 am and walked 4.5 miles to the ferry dock. The plan was to board the ferry and traveled to Magdalena Island. After the walk, which was incredibly scenic along the bay, we were disappointed to find out there was no room in the ferry for us. This was the result of a last minute decision and lack of planning but when you travel a lot this is bound to happen. We were already imagining hanging out with the Magellanic pinguins which inhabit Magdalena Island in the thousands this time of year. There is a reason to comeback here!

We walked back and into the city, found Wake Up Café and stopped for coffee and a sandwich, we were shocked by the bill in a pleasant way, a latte, a cappuccino, and two croissant sandwiches for $13 dollars! I can get used to this, I had settled on a five dollar cash tip expecting the bill to be $20 so this may not be the largest tip of the day but perhaps the largest percentage wise.

We walked around the city, almost 11 miles for the day, our highlight was the Santuario Maria Auxiliadora. This Catholic Church was immaculate inside and out and we experienced a very large nativity display around the entire sanctuary. It was by far, the most intricate and large nativity scene we have ever scene. We bought water and local chocolates and sat at the park to watercolor.

We noticed the city has a number of dogs that are very well fed, despite being loose on the street. We had a small one come by and sit with us as I painted.