stray-dogs
by globetrott
Stray-dogs seem to be a common problem in Chile and you will see them at many places. Some of them are really clever and they made the surroundings of the Magellan-monument their home, sitting on the benches and begging for food at the tourists. At least they are mostly not agressive but rather intimidated and will run away, when you shout at them or make a step forward.
The couple from Germany that I met in their motorhome in Punta Arenas told me they are always glad to find such dogs, they will give them some food and while they are going into town the dog will guard their motorhome and let nobody else get close to the car than the owners.
local wildlife
by willy_wonka
a short drive out of the city and you will come to the heath lands and pampas that the south of chile is renowned for. here there are numerous wildlife sightings to be had... a simple drive in the car and you'll usually come across the guanaco, who with a huge leap will jump the fence and continue on their merry way. pumas are also said to be seen, although i didnt see any. birdlife is spectacular, and there are numerous day tours from punta arenas that will take the bird enthusiasts out. of course, the marine life here is stunning. whales and dolphins can be seen with boat tours, and of course there is the penguins, which i will talk about in my next tips....
Mirador Cerro de la Cruz
by vtveen
On one side of the Plaza de Armas lies the municipal cathedral of Punta Arenas. Take the street next to the Cathedral for three blocks, cross the (busy)Avenida Espana and climb the steps to Mirador Cerro de la Cruz (Mount of the Cross).
From this viewing point we had a wonderful view of the city with its coloured houses, commercial buildings, the harbour, Strait of Magellan and (on this rather clear day) we even could see Tierra del Fuego.
Fondest Memory
Next to the Mirador is a small café/tearoom and because we were visiting during a public holiday it was closed. After some knocking on the door the owners opened their ‘shop’ and prepared special for us ‘Dutchies’ a (simple) lunch. The fire was poked and while waiting for our meal we even got some (Spanish) magazines to read.
House Sara Braun
by MikeAtSea
One can only imagine the wealth of those who made it and became rich on the turn of the 19th to the 20th century if one looks at the mansions that line the main square. One of the palaces is the house of Sara Braun, associated to the Mendendez family and an impressive sight with many rooms, a winter garden and ball room to celebrate social events.
The Naval and Maritime Museum
by MikeAtSea
Inaugurated in 1995 it is an important collection of the history and maritime interests of the Chilean Navy. One can find paintings, photo collections, scale models and relicts of local and international sailors that sailed through the Southern Atlantic. Also on display are maritime and naval instruments.
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towards the beach
Inside of "Jekus"
Museo Naval y Maritimo in Punta Arenas
the luxury home of the Braun-Menendez-family
