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Puerto Natales

A formerly modest fishing port on Seno Última Esperanza, Puerto Natales has blossomed into a Gore-Tex mecca. The gateway to Parque Nacional Torres del Paine, this town feeds off tourism, an all-you-can-eat feast with unwavering demand. Boutique beers and wine tastings have overtaken tea time, and gear shops have replaced the yarn sellers. While there are growing services that cater to a wide variety of tastes, there's appeal in Natales' corrugated-tin houses strung shoulder to shoulder and cozy granny-style lodgings. Most notably, in spite of a near-constant swarm of visitors, the town still maintains the glacial pace of living endemic to Patagonia.

Puerto Natales is 155 miles (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 the southern terminus of the ferry trip through the Chilean fjords.

Explore Puerto Natales

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Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Puerto Natales.

  • Restaurants

  • Chilean

    Singular Restaurant

    The perfect port in a storm, part supper club of yore, part modern bistro, with exquisite food and attentive service. Leather sofas and polished wood meet bare beams and stark views of the sound. Chef Hernan Vaso reinvigorates local ingredients: the freshest ceviche, tender lamb medallions and lovely salads come with original sides and fine Chilean wines. Vegetarian options excel.

  • Seafood

    Santolla

    For worthwhile upscale seafood, look no further than this cozy container restaurant attended by the owner. Feast on gorgeous salads and local king crab prepared several ways; we liked it with merken (smoked chili), white wine and parsley. Nonseafood eaters have options such as steak or rabbit in black-truffle sauce.

  • Pizza

    La Guanaca

    From crisp oven-fired pizzas to crepes and marinated mushroom appetizers, this homespun restaurant delivers warming and satisfying meals. Oversized salads, like the quinoa with roasted vegetables, are abundant and varied. There's craft beer and several wines to choose from.

  • Fusion

    Afrigonia

    Outstanding and wholly original, you won’t find Afro-Chilean cuisine on any NYC menu. This romantic gem serves up fragrant rice, fresh ceviche and mint roasted lamb prepared with succulent precision. Desserts also hit the mark. Make reservations.

  • Chilean

    Cafe Kaiken

    With just five tables and one couple cooking, serving and chatting up customers, this is as intimate as it gets. The owners moved here to get out of the Santiago fast lane, so you'd best follow their lead. Dishes such as mushroom ceviche, slow-roasted lamb or homemade ravioli are well worth the wait. Arrive early to claim a spot.

  • Burgers

    La Forestera

    These gorgeous gourmet burgers do disappear fast. Tasty regular and lamb burgers or lentil and beet alternatives are served on airy brioche buns. It also does super-spicy wings and crisp onion rings, well matched with a local brew. There are just a few tables but also takeout service.

  • Mediterranean

    La Aldea

    Chef Pato changes the offerings daily, but the focus is fresh and Mediterranean, with a nod to local ingredients. Think grilled clams, lamb tagine and quinoa dishes with an elegant presentation. Don't skip the decadent tres leches (three milks) cake for dessert.

  • Cafe

    El Living

    Indulge in the London lounge feel of this chill cafe, one of Natales' first. Offers fresh vegetarian fare (plus vegan, gluten-free), quick food plus curries and daily specials. There's stacks of European glossies and a hidden backyard with outdoor tables.

  • Parrilla

    Asador Patagónico

    If trekking left you with a mastodon appetite, this upscale Argentine-style grill serves flame-seared lamb, steak and salads, as well as sweetbreads, alongside quality wines.

Top experiences

Whether it’s a guided tour of a historic landmark, private tasting of local delicacies, or an off-road adventure — explore the best experiences in Puerto Natales.

  • Activities