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Introducing Puerto Natales
Let's get right to the point - Puerto Natales is the gateway to Parque Nacional Torres del Paine and not much else. It's not the most attractive town in the region (nor the least attractive) - but considering that it's the departure point for the best national park in South America, it doesn't matter. While, overall, it is lacking a centralized local culture, Natales does have a lot to offer in terms of restaurants, hotels and a few bars that cater to international tastes. It also has some last-chance camping/hiking gear stores, which are all overpriced. You are better off picking up supplies in Puerto Montt or Punta Arenas.
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The town sits on the shores of Seno Última Esperanza, 250km northwest of Punta Arenas via Ruta 9, and has some striking views out over the mountains. It is the capital of the province of Última Esperanza and is the southern terminus of the ferry trip through the Chilean fjords. Once dependent on wool, mutton and fishing, it now feeds off tourism, which is currently an all-you-can-eat feast that will only become more plentiful in the upcoming years.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
