Patagonia, welcome at the end of the world

Patagonia: the very name conjures images of impenetrable glaciers, towering mountains, ice fields, Penguin colonies and the ‘End of the World’, before freezing seas disappear towards the South Pole. Understanding this unique landscape just a little better, with this short guide, will make your Australis cruise and Patagonia adventure even more special. 

ESSENTIAL PACKING LIST

• Waterproof hiking boots/shoes

• Waterproof trousers

• Waterproof and windproof jacket

• Warm, waterproof gloves

• Warm jumper

• A cap or beanie hat

• Sunglasses

• Sun cream

For many, Torres del Paine National Park – with its hiking routes, horse-riding trails, kayaking tours and photo safaris – is one of the main highlights of South America, such is the landscape’s poetic natural beauty. The whole region, which covers nearly 2,000sq km, is a UNESCO-protected biosphere, meaning this fairytale wonderland will remain untouched for the years to come. The main attractions of Torres del Paine include the iconic Cordillera and Los Cuernos del Paine Mountains, the French Valley, lakes Nordenskjöld and Pehoe plus the great Grey Glacier. Much wildlife exists here too, with Andean Condors, Black-disked Buzzard Eagles, Grey Foxes, wild Horses, Guanacos and even Pumas thriving throughout, despite the often-harsh conditions.  From Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales, it’s either a 4-hour or 1-hour 30-minute drive respectively to reach Torres del Paine.

The iconic Perito Moreno Glacier needs no introduction, as this famous natural wonder of Patagonia is so instantly recognisable from its much-photographed façade, some 5km wide, nearly 100m tall and covering an overall surface area larger than Buenos Aires! This awe-inspiring glacier can be admired from the public walkways set on the hill opposite, though boat trips will take you up to the ice cliff itself for an unforgettable perspective from the water. Most hotels are located at least 70km away, so visiting Perito Moreno is usually a full-day tour.

Since Australis is the only explorative vessel of its type that journeys to the shores and fjords of this impressive Patagonian region, your experience will be as exclusive and intimate as such a pristine wilderness deserves.

PUNTA ARENAS

Punta Arenas is the southernmost city in Chile, an extreme place though one which today is home to over 100,000 people and, as well as tourism, has proud traditions in both farming and shipping. Punta Arenas has clutched Chile’s Patagonian coastline since the 19^th century, though earlier short-lived settlements around the region (including pirate hangouts) date back to the mid-1500s. The easiest way to get here is a direct flight from Santiago, taking 3 hours 20 minutes. 

USHUAIA

Situated on Argentina’s side of Patagonia, Ushuaia is referred to as the ‘End of the World’, and for good reason. Having once served as both a remote penal colony and naval base, today Ushuaia is best-known for its easy access to the wildlife and wonders of Patagonia, and a departure point for South Pole cruises, as well as that intriguing history. Experience it first-hand on a 19th century railway line that’s still in operation.

CAPE HORN

Cape Horn is a wild, rocky outcrop situated roughly where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans meet. As a result, it is not only remote and uninhabitable, but the seas around here are notoriously unforgiving, having claimed their share of shipwrecks over the years. When the weather is calm, Australis is the only expedition cruise that lands on Cape Horn to experience its unique atmosphere – it’s an exciting, once-in-a-lifetime experience!

GLACIERS

What may live longest in the memory after your tour is your first sight of a great glacier, of which Patagonia has many. These solid walls of compacted ice never fail to take your breath away, so we’ll be sure to visit as many as possible both from the comfort of the Australis ship though also up close in a Zodiac boat. It can depend on weather conditions, but Condor, Garibaldi, Pia and Aguila Glaciers are all commonly sighted.

PENGUINS

Ever-popular, loveable and rarely seen in the wild, witnessing a Penguin colony enjoying their natural habitat is always a true privilege. Colonies of Magellan Penguins can be observed during your Australis cruise, occasionally while cruising though more likely during planned stops at Tucker and Magdalena Islands. Cameras at the ready, as if you’re lucky enough to see them, it’ll be a real highlight of the trip!

Like the pioneering explorers before us, each Australis cruise will see you sail through some of the world’s most remote landscapes. From Charles Darwin to Captain Fitz Roy, or daring Ferdinand Magellan whose intrepid travels led him here some 500 years ago; there is a historic sense of adventure in Patagonia that only adds to its mystical allure.