Welcome to

Magallanes & Chilean Antarctica

Information for Delegates

GD24 - Sponsors

About Chile

Few countries in the world offer such a variety of destinations where tourists can immerse themselves in great travel experiences. From sprawling national parks that allow for an authentic connection to nature and culture, to the urban streets of Santiago – the capital – which has earned a reputation as a clean, orderly, safe and modern city.

The country is divided into five areas, markedly different in terms of geography and climate. The north, influenced by the presence of the Atacama Desert; Santiago, Valparaíso, and the Central Valleys, defined by their Mediterranean climate; moving south, we encounter an area of lakes and volcanoes; and in the far south, we find Patagonia and the Antarctic Territory. This is, of course, without including the islands – Rapa Nui and Robinson Crusoe Island.

Chile_Torres del Paine

Magallanes and the Chilean Antarctica

The Magallanes region and the Chilean Antarctic Territory are situated at the southern tip of South America, representing the most remote and southernmost areas of the continent and Chile, respectively. It is home to diverse ecosystems, from the dense forests and wonders of Tierra del Fuego to the striking beauty of the Patagonian steppes and the surreal landscapes of the Antarctic Peninsula.

Beyond its natural charm, the region is abundant in rich cultural heritage. The history of indigenous peoples, such as the Yaghan and Selk’nam, along with tales of European explorers, adds depth to the visitor experience, offering insights into human resilience and the impact of humans on isolated environments. This region is a great example of how delicate ecosystems can coexist with mindful human activity.

MAP - MAGALLANES

Conference Venue Information

HOTEL DREAMS DEL ESTRECHO - Conference Venue

Hotel Dreams del Estrecho, overlooking the Strait of Magellan, and a spa. Close to Punta Arenas' dining hub, guests can kayak with dolphins, visit Los Pingüinos, or explore museums and farms nearby.

Venue: Hotel Dreams del Estrecho

Address : Libertador Bernardo O'Higgins 1235, Punta Arenas, Región de Magallanes y de la Antártica Chilena, Chile

Getting to Punta Arenas

By Air

To reach Punta Arenas by flight, you typically begin by flying to Santiago, Chile’s main international gateway, at Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL). From Santiago, book a connecting domestic flight to Punta Arenas, arriving at Presidente Carlos Ibáñez del Campo International Airport (PUQ). Airlines such as LATAM and Sky Airlines offer regular flights between these two cities. Direct flights may also be available from some neighbouring South American countries.

 

By Car

Travelling to Punta Arenas by car is an adventurous and scenic option that requires some planning. If starting from Santiago or elsewhere in Chile, drive south along the Pan-American Highway to Puerto Montt. From there, continue south through the Carretera Austral or cross into Argentina to follow the Ruta 40, an iconic highway that leads to the southern region of Patagonia. After re-entering Chile, the route heads further south to Punta Arenas via the town of Puerto Natales. The journey covers thousands of kilometres and often involves ferries, particularly when crossing bodies of water between Chilean fjords or reaching Tierra del Fuego. Make sure to prepare for border crossings, unpaved roads, and fluctuating weather conditions.

 

 

By Bus

To reach Punta Arenas by bus, start your journey from Santiago or another major Chilean city like Puerto Montt. From Santiago, you can take a long-distance bus south to Puerto Montt or Puerto Natales, which are closer to Punta Arenas. From Puerto Montt, buses continue to Punta Arenas via a ferry crossing or travel through Argentina. Alternatively, from Puerto Natales, you can take a bus directly to Punta Arenas. The trip is long and can involve multiple transfers, so it’s important to plan your route carefully and check the schedules of bus companies operating these routes.

 

By Sea

Travelling to Punta Arenas by sea provides a unique and scenic journey. One option is to take a ferry from Puerto Montt, a coastal city in southern Chile, to Punta Arenas. This route is served by Navimag, which offers ferry cruises through the breathtaking fjords and channels of Patagonia. The trip takes around four days and provides stunning views of glaciers, forests, and wildlife, making it both a mode of transport and a memorable travel experience. These options require careful planning due to their limited schedules and availability.

 

Travel Information

Visa for Foreign Visitors

Conference delegates travelling to Chile should first check if their nationality requires a visa, as many countries, including the U.S., EU members, and Canada, are exempt from tourist visa requirements for stays up to 90 days. If a visa is needed, typically a Tourist Visa or Short Duration Visa applies, and delegates must submit an application through a Chilean consulate. The visa process can take several weeks, so it’s best to apply early and consult the Chilean consulate’s website for the most accurate and current information.

Accommodation

The following map shows the location of the conference venues and recommended accommodations. Below is a list of affordable hotels, including discounts available to our delegates.

Dreams Hotel

Hotel Dreams del Estrecho, overlooking the Strait of Magellan, and a spa. Close to Punta Arenas' dining hub, guests can kayak with dolphins, visit Los Pingüinos, or explore museums and farms nearby.

Address : Libertador Bernardo O'Higgins 1235, Punta Arenas, Región de Magallanes y de la Antártica Chilena, Chile

10% Discount

Hostal Maipú Street

Overlooking the Strait of Magellan, Hostal Maipu Street offers comfortable bungalows with free Wi-Fi and a cosy atmosphere in Punta Arenas.

Make Reservation : info@maipustreet.com

Address : Maipú 1270, 6212816 Punta Arenas, Magallanes y la Antártica Chilena, Chile

Special Price for Delegates

Hotel José Nogueira

In the heart of Punta Arenas, a hotel with history, warm and elegant that will make you travel back in time. Hotel José Nogueira is located in the Sara Braun Palace, a splendid mansion from 1895, where you will not only have the opportunity to enjoy a high-end boutique hotel with 22 rooms, 6 of them suites, The Endurance Restaurant and the Shackleton Bar, but also to live inside the history of this national monument.

Make Reservation : reservas@hotelnogueira.com

Address : Gobernador Carlos Bories 967, 6200000 Punta Arenas, Magallanes y la Antártica Chilena, Chile

Special Price for Delegates

Hotel Cabo de Hornos

The Cabo de Hornos Hotel is located in the historic centre of the city as a guardian and witness of the history of Punta Arenas and its cultural heritage, being a fundamental part of its development. With a privileged location, in the historic centre of Punta Arenas, Hotel Cabo de Hornos is just steps away from the main cultural, gastronomic, historical and business attractions of the city.

Make Reservation : reservas@hotelesaustralis.com

Address : Décima Segunda, Pl. Benjamín Muñoz Gamero 1039, Punta Arenas, Magallanes y la Antártica Chilena, Chile

10% Discount

Hotel Hain

Boutique Hotel, linked to the heritage rescue of a Magellanic mansion of pioneering architecture. Its cultural value underlies the collective imagination of the porteños and travellers from the "end of the world" who enjoyed their solitude in what was once a renowned nightclub in Patagonia. After the abandonment of the property, Lilian rescues the idea of the warm refuge and goes back to the origins of the Wild Patagonia, naming the hotel "Hain", in homage to the "Selk'nam Initiation Ceremony". It has a privileged location next to the old Punta Arenas Cemetery and the Hindu Temple, the only one of its kind in Latin America. It has a beautiful view of the port, the sea and the movement of ships in the Strait of Magellan.

Make Reservation : hotelhain@gmail.com

Address : José Nogueira 1600, 6201397 Punta Arenas, Magallanes y la Antártica Chilena, Chile

Hostal Martita

Accommodation located 200 meters from Avenida Costera del Estrecho, in the downtown area of the city. We have different formats of single, double, triple, matrimonial and group rooms, all of them with private bathroom, cable TV, central heating, hot water shower, wifi and continental breakfast

Field Trips / Tours

The following excursions and visits have been specially selected by the host destinations and will take place as post-conference activities.

Practical Information

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Language

The primary language spoken in Punta Arenas is Spanish. While many locals understand basic English, especially in tourist areas, learning a few key Spanish phrases can enhance your experience and ease communication. Hotel and tour staff are generally equipped to assist non-Spanish speakers. Delegates are encouraged to bring a phrasebook or language app to help with daily interactions, making it easier to navigate restaurants, transportation, and local attractions.

Currency

The official currency in Punta Arenas is the Chilean Peso (CLP). ATMs are widely available, and most businesses accept credit and debit cards, though some smaller vendors may prefer cash. It’s a good idea to carry some pesos for taxis, tips, or small purchases. Currency exchange offices are available in the city, but exchanging money before arrival or using ATMs will typically offer better rates.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in Punta Arenas includes buses and taxis, providing affordable options for exploring the city and nearby attractions. Taxis are readily available and often charge fixed rates for common routes. For more extensive travel to places like Puerto Natales or Torres del Paine, intercity buses operate regularly. If you plan to explore remote areas, renting a car provides flexibility and allows you to navigate the region’s scenic landscapes at your own pace.

Weather

In October, Punta Arenas experiences spring-like weather as temperatures start to rise. Average daytime temperatures range between 7°C and 12°C, while nights can still be chilly, often dropping to around 3°C or lower. Winds remain relatively strong, characteristic of the region, and rain showers are possible, so visitors should pack layers, including a warm jacket and windproof gear. The weather can be unpredictable, making layered clothing essential for comfort while exploring.

Travel Tips

To ensure a smooth visit to Punta Arenas, plan your trips to popular attractions like Torres del Paine and Tierra del Fuego in advance, as tours can be booked up quickly. Pack for unpredictable weather and bring windproof clothing. English is not widely spoken, so basic Spanish phrases are helpful. Stay aware of local safety guidelines, particularly near natural sites, and be prepared with local currency for small expenses.

Register your interest today!

Get your ticket to participate in the Global Green Destinations 2024 Conference in Punta Arenas, Chile.
Early bird offer currently available.

Sponsors & Partners

Sernatur Chile
Sernatur Magallanes
Gobierno Regional Magallanes
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