We will leave early from our hotel to begin our adventure today.
We will drive about 52 kilometers south to reach the Strait of Magellan National Park, Fuerte Bulnes, built in 1843 during the government of Manuel Bulnes. This was the first Chilean settlement in the territory and led to the founding of Punta Arenas. margin: 0in; ">
The route begins
along the mythical Strait of Magellan,
where it is possible to see a large number of seabirds such as oystercatchers, wild geese, several species of ducks, and
the most famous in Patagonia, the cormorants,
and if we are lucky, perhaps dolphins and sea lions.
Upon reaching the Park,
located at the highest point, we will find the Museum, which houses a modern multimedia exhibition that, through art and science,
explains the processes of land formation and the ways of life that inhabit it and the history of human presence in this part of the world. It has a large terrace where you can appreciate the immensity of the Strait and see the historic Puerto del Hambre, a monument.
Strait of Magellan. Originally founded in 1843, it was the first Chilean settlement in the territory and led to the founding of the city of Punta Arenas 5 years later. Today it is a National Historic Monument.
We will also find
in this Park the Wind Forest Trail.
This trail begins at the O`Higgins Lighthouse
(located behind Fort Bulnes) and crosses a Magellanic Coihue forest that grows perpendicularly due to the force of the prevailing wind. The trail leads to the Strait Viewpoint, from where you can see the passing of boats, birds, dolphins, and whales.
Another trail in the Park is the Coastal Trail . This trail runs through the forests and rocks around the Fort through three strategically located viewpoints that offer unparalleled views of the surrounding landscape.
And finally, we will find the Puerto del Hambre King Felipe City, founded in 1584 by Pedro Sarmiento de Gamboa on behalf of the Spanish crown to take possession and colonize the Strait of Magellan.
This experience at Fort Bulnes is a unique opportunity to learn about the history and importance of this place in the exploration and colonization of southern Chile. It also allows us to enjoy the beautiful coastal views and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Magallanes region and Chilean Antarctica.