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Picture of Magallanes, Chile

Travel Guide for
Magallanes

Chile

Cool, windy, subpolar oceanic

Introduction

Magallanes, in southern Chilean Patagonia, is a gateway to wild landscapes where the Andes meet vast steppe and icy fjords. This remote region, once traversed by Magellan and explorers of old, blends European influences with deep-rooted indigenous heritage, creating a unique cultural tapestry. October brings crisp spring weather—expect cool temperatures, fresh winds, and the occasional rain, perfect for outdoor adventures with friends.

Visit the lively city of Punta Arenas for vibrant dining and historic mansions, then explore Torres del Paine National Park with luxury lodges, private guides, and gourmet meals. Embark on a high-end cruise through the fjords, spot penguins on Magdalena Island, and savor world-class Patagonian lamb with your group amid breathtaking scenery.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleTravelling with friends

Dates06-13 October 2025

BudgetHigh budget

AccommodationHotel, villa

Interests and Activities:

outdoor adventuressightseeing and toursvolunteeringgastronomyfestivals and eventsarts and culture

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Picture of Magallanes, Chile

Key Facts

Location

Magallanes y la Antártica Chilena

Currency

Chilean Peso (CLP)

Religion

Roman Catholicism

Population

166,533

Language

Spanish, some English

Electricity

220V, 50Hz, type C/L

Time zone

UTCCLT (UTC-3)

Country code

+56

Internet access

Good coverage; 4G in cities, Wi-Fi common

Climate

Cool, windy, subpolar oceanic

See More Chile Facts

Language:

Spanish

  • hello

    hola (oh-lah)
  • goodbye

    adiós (ah-dee-os)
  • yes

    (see)
  • no

    no (no)
  • how much

    ¿cuánto cuesta esto? (kwan-to kwes-ta es-to)
  • please

    por favor (por fah-vor)
  • thank you

    gracias (grah-see-as)
  • excuse me

    disculpe (dees-kool-peh)

Map

Logistics

To reach Magallanes, Chile, the fastest and most comfortable option is flying. Major airlines offer frequent flights from Santiago to Punta Arenas, the region’s capital, with a travel time of under four hours. Charter flights and private jets are also available for a luxury experience, perfect for groups of friends traveling together.

Long-distance buses from other Chilean cities are an adventurous alternative but much slower and less comfortable than flying. Ferries connect Punta Arenas to Puerto Williams for exploring remote southern areas, though schedules depend on weather, especially in October. Be mindful that strong Patagonian winds or storms can occasionally cause flight or ferry delays in early spring.

Weather

Magallanes, Chile, has a cool, windy climate year-round, with temperatures rarely exceeding 15°C (59°F). Summers (December–February) are mild and breezy, while winters (June–August) can bring chilly winds and occasional snowfall. Rapid weather changes are common, so it’s best to dress in layers for sightseeing and outdoor adventures.

From October 6 to October 13, expect springtime conditions: crisp air, frequent clouds, and gusty Patagonian winds. Daytime temperatures average 4–11°C (39–52°F), with long daylight hours for enjoying tours, volunteering, and arts events. Extreme weather is unlikely this week, but brief rain showers and strong winds may occur, so pack suitable gear.

Food & Drink

Magallanes delights visitors with its Patagonian lamb roasted over open fires, king crab (“centolla”), guanaco steak, succulent seafood, and calafate berry treats. Popular drinks include regional craft beers and Chilean wines. Local specialties highlight the fresh, wild nature of the region.

In Punta Arenas, try fine dining at La Yegua Loca or Restaurante Damiana Elena, both offering gourmet local fare and stylish atmosphere. For cocktails with a view, head to Shackleton Bar at Hotel Cabo de Hornos or La Taberna Andina, while Wake Up Café serves excellent desserts and Patagonian coffee blends.

Tipping is customary—leave around 10% unless service is already included. Menus generally cater to meat-lovers; vegetarians should check in advance. Fine ingredients and a vibrant dining scene make Magallanes perfect for a memorable, upscale friends’ getaway.

A picture of Empanada

Empanada

Empanadas are a beloved Chilean snack, featuring a flavorful filling of meat, onions, olives, and hard-boiled egg, all...

A picture of Cazuela

Cazuela

Cazuela is a delightful Chilean stew that typically includes chunks of meat, corn, rice, potatoes, and vegetables, all...

A picture of Chorrillana

Chorrillana

Chorrillana is a hearty and indulgent Chilean dish composed of French fries topped with pan-fried beef, onions, and...

A picture of Pastel de Choclo

Pastel de Choclo

Pastel de Choclo is a traditional Chilean dish that features a savory pie made with a sweet corn...

A picture of Curanto

Curanto

Curanto is a unique Chilean dish that originated in the Chiloé Archipelago, showcasing a blend of seafood, meat,...

Accommodation

For a luxurious stay in Magallanes, consider The Singular Patagonia in Puerto Natales, a historic hotel with stunning fjord views and gourmet dining. Hotel Cabo de Hornos in Punta Arenas offers elegant comfort in the city center, making it easy to explore local attractions. Both cities are popular bases for exploring Torres del Paine National Park.

If you prefer privacy, book a villa in the region—Awasi Patagonia is a standout, offering exclusive villas with private guides close to Torres del Paine. For reservations, use trusted sites like Booking.com or Expedia. October is peak spring season; accommodations fill quickly, so book early for the best options and group availability.

Itinerary

Begin your Patagonian journey by getting acquainted with Magallanes’ vibrant local culture, history, and cuisine. Set the tone for adventure with a welcoming exploration of the city’s arts and traditions.

Magallanes Regional Museum Exploration

Delve into the history and culture of Patagonia with a guided tour of the Magallanes Regional Museum. Explore exhibits on indigenous peoples, 19th-century explorers, and colonial heritage. Don't miss the original furnishings and artifacts.

Stroll Around Plaza Muñoz Gamero

Take a relaxing walk in Punta Arenas’ iconic Plaza Muñoz Gamero, surrounded by grand colonial architecture. Admire the statues and learn about local legends, including the famous foot of the indigenous Ona statue.

Gastronomic Introduction at La Marmita

Enjoy a welcome dinner with your friends at La Marmita, a top local restaurant. Savor Patagonian specialties like king crab and lamb, paired expertly with Chilean wines. Reservations are recommended for groups.

Full-Day Tour Torres del Paine National Park from Puerto Natales

Full-Day Tour Torres del Paine National Park from Puerto Natales

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Depart from your hotel in Puerto Natales to discover the wonders of Torres del Paine National Park. This full-day tour brings visitors to the most scenic panoramas of the park that are accessible by vehicle. Visit its most famous attractions while learning about flora and fauna of the mountains that characterize the area. As you ride through the park, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy its amazing views, to discover a beautiful waterfall, to gaze at its beautiful lakes and lagoons from the lookout points, and to explore further as you go on short hikes for some even better perspectives.

4.7 (219 reviews)

From $129 USD

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Experiences

Farming Experience in Chile
volunteering

Farming Experience in Chile

Minimum 1 week

Chile

$495/week

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Renovation and Construction in Chile
volunteering

Renovation and Construction in Chile

Minimum 1 week

Chile

$495/week

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English Teaching in Chile
teaching

English Teaching in Chile

Minimum 1 week

Chile

$495/week

Learn More

Attractions

4.6 (149 reviews)
Torres del Paine & Milodon cave. Day tour from Puerto Natales

Torres del Paine & Milodon cave. Day tour from Puerto Natales

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL
Free Cancellation

The most comprehensive all-day tour (12 hours) of Torres del Paine Park with a little bit of hiking. Join our tour in a shuttle bus (15 seats) and discover Torres del Paine with Howlanders! The full-day tour of Torres del Paine provides the best opportunity to explore several sectors of the park. During the tour we’ll stop at the main attractions, so you won’t have to get too physical with this tour, making it suitable for all travelers :) The highlights of this all-day tour: -Views of Macizo Paine -Lake Sarmiento Viewpoint -Laguna Amarga Viewpoint -Lake Noderhold Viewpoint - Lunch at Pehoé Sector: views of Lake Pehoé and the Cuernos del Paine. - Grey Glacier 1-hour hike: we’ll cross the old Lenga forest until we reach the shore of Lake Grey. - Milodon Cave Natural Monument

From $85 USD

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4.0 (32 reviews)
Strait Park - Fort Bulnes

Strait Park - Fort Bulnes

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

In this tour you and your companion will have the possibility of taking a tour that will trace you back in the history of our region, its discovery, the settlement of the Chilean people, and the different feats of sailors who arrived in these lands.

From $55 USD

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3.7 (6 reviews)
Full Day Torres del Paine Tour from Puerto Natales with Pickup

Full Day Torres del Paine Tour from Puerto Natales with Pickup

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

You will visit Torres del Paine Located just over a hundred kilometers from Puerto Natales, the National Park appears with incredible landscape resources on its 242,242 hectares. For many it is one of the most beautiful places on the planet, considered the eighth wonder of the world. You will live an unforgettable experience with a committed and sustainable company

From $119 USD

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3.8 (4 reviews)
Full Day Torres del Paine & Milodon

Full Day Torres del Paine & Milodon

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Start your adventure between 7:30 and 8:00 AM and discover the very best of Torres del Paine National Park in just one day. Enjoy breathtaking stops at viewpoints such as Lago Sarmiento, Laguna Amarga, and the Paine River waterfall, where you can admire the iconic Torres del Paine from different angles. Entering officially through Laguna Amarga, you’ll continue to explore the park’s most stunning landscapes, including the Paine Massif with its famous peaks—Paine Grande, Cuernos del Paine, and Almirante Nieto. Along the way, visit highlights like Lago Nordenskjöld, Lago Pehoé, Río Paine, Lago Grey, and the Glacier Grey viewpoint. Weather permitting, you may also walk to Salto Grande waterfall and Grey Beach. On the way back, the journey continues along the shores of Lago Toro and Lago Porteño, before reaching the Milodon Cave Natural Monument, where you can enter with your ticket, concluding this unforgettable full-day experience around 6:00 PM in Puerto Natales.

From $89 USD

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5.0 (2 reviews)
Trekking Base Torres del Paine

Trekking Base Torres del Paine

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Without a doubt, one of the most spectacular national parks on the planet, the variety of plant and animal species, combined with its wonderful scenic attractions and rugged geography, make it one of the most sought-after among ecology and adventure sports enthusiasts. This is the opportunity to explore these giant granite massifs, shaped by the force of glacial ice, in just one day.

From $125 USD

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4.7 (3 reviews)
Trekking Base Torres Del Paine from Puerto Natales

Trekking Base Torres Del Paine from Puerto Natales

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Torres del Paine National Park and uncover its hidden wonders. This adventure takes you along scenic paths and trails leading to a secluded lagoon, offering an unforgettable view of the iconic granite towers. Along the way, you will visit Amarga Lagoon and journey through the Ascencio Valley, where our hike begins, immersing yourself in one of the most spectacular landscapes in Patagonia.

From $138 USD

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5.0 (5 reviews)
Punta Arenas Antarctic History Private City Tour

Punta Arenas Antarctic History Private City Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Explore the history of exploration in the world's southern extremes on this unique city tour in Punta Arenas- the main jumping-off point to Antarctica. See historic sites where Ernest Shackleton, Otto Nordenskold, Roald Amundsen and other heroes came during their missions to conquer the White Continent. Visit replicas of some of the famous ships that sailed these waters on quests to find new worlds, new life, and new hope. Finish with drinks in the Bar Shackleton to watch real footage of Ernest Shackleton's famously ill-fated expedition before being taken back to your drop-off destination of choice to continue your own Southern adventure.

From $350 USD

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4.5 (4 reviews)
2 Imperdible Tours Torres del Paine and Perito Moreno

2 Imperdible Tours Torres del Paine and Perito Moreno

INSTANT

Tour to Torres del Paine from Puerto Natales, where you will know live and direct the wonders of Torres del Paine National Park, a place famous for its granite towers that are located in a place surrounded by multicolored lagoons, large waterfalls, glaciers, forests Patagonian and its incredible flora and fauna that decorate the place, a unique Park in the world and that you can enjoy in the front row on this day trip, for something it was named 2013 as the 8th wonder of the world, you will also have the privilege of Get to know the imposing Milodon Cave, where you will know the history of this place and you will find the replica of the mythical animal, the Milodon, which lived thousands of years ago in this region of Patagonia. Enjoy the Perito Moreno Glacier in the front row. With this to the Glacier Tour to the Perito Moreno will leave you amazed with the ice giant and the landscape that accompanies it. It is a trip that you can enjoy in the front row.

From $320 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
Trekking Base Torres del Paine Imperdible

Trekking Base Torres del Paine Imperdible

INSTANT

Enjoy a spectacular day getting to know the Torres del Paine Base, on this tour we will walk through the Ascencio Valley, where we venture through impressive Lenga forests on a 4-hr walk up, which lead to the Torres del Base Paine and his Laguna that are at his feet. Departure time 06:15 - 06:45 am Place of Departure and Return Puerto Natales * We recommend * Comfortable shoes Sunblock and Sunglasses Layered Clothing Snack

From $110 USD

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