Puerto Natales is the heart of southern Chilean Patagonia and the gateway to Torres del Paine National Park, one of the most iconic trekking destinations in the world. However, the town itself is much more than just a base for hikers.
This charming city combines cultural heritage, modern comfort, and Patagonian adventure. Every day, hundreds of travelers arrive by air, land, or sea to explore its historic corners, stroll along the Señoret Channel waterfront, admire black-necked swans, or take postcard-perfect photos at the old pier that recalls the golden age of livestock farming.
Nearby, travelers can hike to panoramic viewpoints such as Cerro Benítez and Cerro Dorotea, or visit the Milodon Cave Natural Monument, a massive prehistoric site where remains of a now-extinct giant mammal were discovered.
Tour options include:
Day hikes and multi-day treks in Torres del Paine
Kayaking and glacier excursions
Navigations through Patagonian fjords
Cultural visits and nature walks around Puerto Natales
For a seamless experience, you can book accommodations, transport, meals, and tours with local providers through BookingPatagonia.travel — your trusted platform for planning a complete Patagonian journey.
The best time to visit is during the southern summer — November to March, when the weather is milder, and all trails and services are available. Shoulder seasons (October and April) offer fewer crowds and still-pleasant weather for trekking.
Most travelers from the EU, US, Canada, Australia, and Latin America do not require a visa for tourism stays under 90 days. However, it’s always best to check with the Chilean consulate in your country before traveling.
The closest airport is Puerto Natales (PNT), which has seasonal direct flights mainly during the high season (October to March). The most reliable route is to fly into Punta Arenas (PUQ) from Santiago (SCL) and continue by bus or private transfer.
Airlines that operate these routes include:
LATAM Airlines (flag carrier, most frequent schedule)
Sky Airline (low-cost)
JetSMART (ultra-low-cost)
To find the best deals, book early, and consider flying into Punta Arenas if dates for Puerto Natales are limited.
Once in Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales, you can reserve buses, catamarans, and private transfers through BookingPatagonia.travel.
Puerto Natales and its surroundings offer a wide variety of affordable lodging options for travelers. You can find hostels, boutique hotels, cabins, container lodges, and small inns, many of which provide excellent service and warm Patagonian hospitality.
All these accommodations can be easily reserved through BookingPatagonia.travel, which works directly with a wide range of local providers to offer verified options that suit every traveler's needs and budget.
Travelers typically arrive in Puerto Natales by bus or airplane. From there, transportation options include:
Buses to the park (e.g., Bus Sur)
Catamaran services (e.g., Pudeto to Paine Grande, Lago Grey Navigation)
Private transfers or rental cars
All these transport options can be reserved via BookingPatagonia.travel.
You’ll find a variety of options in Puerto Natales, from cozy cafes and bakeries to Patagonian-style restaurants offering lamb, guanaco meat, king crab (centolla), and homemade soups.
In the park, boxed lunches (box lunch) and full meals are available at refugios and hotels.
Many meal plans and box lunch options can be booked when reserving your accommodation through BookingPatagonia.travel.
In Puerto Natales, your day typically starts with a hearty breakfast offered at most accommodations, including fresh bread, scrambled eggs, and local jams. During the day, many travelers explore the town or prepare for excursions, often grabbing a light lunch at one of the many cafés or sandwich shops.
By evening, the city comes alive with dining options ranging from casual eateries to refined restaurants serving Patagonian specialties like lamb al palo, king crab (centolla), and guanaco meat, as well as excellent vegetarian dishes. There are also bakeries and food trucks that provide quick and affordable meals.
If you're heading to the park the next day, most accommodations and agencies offer box lunches that can be reserved in advance.
All meal options, including meal plans and lunch boxes for trekking, can be reserved through BookingPatagonia.travel.
Respect nature: Fires are strictly forbidden in non-designated areas. Follow Leave No Trace principles.
Language: Spanish is the official language, but many tourism operators speak English.
Currency: Chilean peso (CLP). Some places accept cards, but cash is recommended for remote areas.
Safety: Very safe for tourists; however, always register park entries and follow instructions from CONAF (National Forest Corporation).
