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How to Get to Strait of Magellan

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the historic Strait of Magellan, a legendary waterway at the southern tip of South America. Discover how to reach this remote Chilean marvel, whether by air, road, or bus, and prepare for an adventure through windswept landscapes and significant maritime history.

7 min readUpdated for 2025–2026 Season
PatagoniaHub
By PatagoniaHub Travel Team|Verified local expertsLast updated: Apr 29, 2026
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The Strait of Magellan, a natural passage connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, is a place of immense historical and natural significance. Located in the Magallanes Region of Chile, reaching this remote destination requires careful planning but rewards travelers with unparalleled views of pristine Patagonian wilderness, abundant wildlife, and a deep sense of exploration. This guide provides all the essential information you need to plan your journey, from international flights to local transport, ensuring a smooth and memorable trip to the 'End of the World'. Prepare for diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to dense forests, and the unique challenges and rewards of Patagonian travel.

Nearest Airports

Presidente Carlos Ibáñez del Campo International Airport

PUQ50 km to Punta Arenas, the main gateway city

Located near Punta Arenas, this is the primary airport for accessing the Chilean side of the Strait of Magellan. It serves domestic flights from Santiago and Puerto Montt, as well as some international connections.

Teniente Julio Gallardo Airport

PNT260 km to Punta Arenas

While closer to Torres del Paine, this airport in Puerto Natales offers seasonal domestic flights, providing an alternative entry point for those combining the Strait with other Patagonian attractions. A drive south to the Strait is then required.

By Flight

Flying to Punta Arenas (PUQ) is by far the quickest and most common way to reach the Chilean side of the Strait of Magellan. Most flights originate from Santiago, Chile's capital, with a journey time of approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. From the airport, Punta Arenas city center is a short taxi or shuttle ride away, and from there, you can easily connect to various points along the Strait.

Airlines

LATAM AirlinesSky AirlineJetSMART

Flight Tips

  • Book your flights well in advance, especially during the peak summer season (December to March), as demand is high and prices can increase significantly.
  • Consider flying on weekdays for potentially lower fares.
  • Look for package deals that combine flights and accommodation, as these can sometimes offer better value.
  • Be prepared for potential flight delays or cancellations due to Patagonian weather conditions, particularly strong winds.

By Car

Driving to the Strait of Magellan offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to explore at your own pace and reach remote viewpoints and attractions that public transport simply cannot access. The roads in the Magallanes region are generally well-maintained, but conditions can vary, especially off major routes or during winter. This is highly recommended for maximizing your exploration.

Main Driving Routes

FromRouteDistanceDurationRoad Condition
Punta ArenasRuta 9 South60 km to Fuerte Bulnes1 hourPaved and generally in good condition. Leads to historical sites like Fuerte Bulnes, the first Chilean settlement.
Puerto NatalesRuta 9 South250 km to Punta Arenas3-4 hoursEntirely paved, offering scenic views across the Patagonian steppe. Connects two major cities in the region.
Río Gallegos, ArgentinaRuta 3 South to Paso Integración Austral, then Ruta 9 South260 km (to Punta Arenas)3.5-4.5 hours (including border crossing)Ruta 3 is fully paved. The border crossing can add significant time. The Chilean side (Ruta 9) is also paved. Check border opening times and requirements.
Ushuaia, ArgentinaRuta 3 North, then RN 281/CH-255, then Ruta 9 South650 km (to Punta Arenas)9-11 hours (including two border crossings and ferry)Mainly paved, but involves crossing from Argentina to Chile, taking a ferry across the Strait of Magellan (Primera Angostura), and another border crossing. Road conditions are good, but the ferry schedule and border wait times are critical considerations.

Driving Tips

  • Always fill up your fuel tank when you have the opportunity, as gas stations can be scarce between towns.
  • Keep an eye on weather forecasts, especially for strong winds and potential snow/ice in winter (May-September).
  • A 4x4 vehicle is not strictly necessary for main paved roads but is highly recommended if you plan to explore unpaved secondary routes or during shoulder seasons.
  • Carry all necessary vehicle documentation, including international driving permits and insurance, especially for border crossings.

By Bus

Bus travel is a comfortable and economical option for reaching the Strait of Magellan, particularly Punta Arenas, from other major cities in Chilean and Argentine Patagonia. Services are generally reliable, with modern coaches offering amenities like reclining seats and onboard restrooms. Buses provide a great way to enjoy the scenery without the stress of driving.

Bus Companies

Buses FernándezBuses PachecoBus-SurBuses Ghisoni

Bus Tips

  • Purchase tickets in advance, especially for popular routes and during peak season, as seats can sell out quickly.
  • Arrive at the bus terminal at least 30 minutes before departure.
  • For international routes, ensure you have all necessary immigration documents and be prepared for stops at border crossings.
  • Luggage allowances vary by company, so check their policies beforehand.

From Major Cities

CityBest MethodTravel TimeCost
Santiago, ChileFlight to Punta Arenas (PUQ)3.5 - 4 hours (flight)Varies from $50 - $200+ USD (one-way, depending on booking time and season)
Buenos Aires, ArgentinaFlight to Río Gallegos (RGL) then bus/car to Punta Arenas, or flight to Punta Arenas (PUQ) via Santiago3 hours (flight to RGL) + 4-5 hours (ground to PUQ), or 7-8 hours (flight to PUQ with layover)Varies from $100 - $300+ USD (flight + ground transfer)
Puerto Natales, ChileBus or Car3 - 4 hoursBus: $15 - $25 USD; Car Rental: Varies
El Calafate, ArgentinaBus7 - 8 hours (to Punta Arenas, including border crossing)Bus: $40 - $60 USD

Local Transport

Once you arrive in Punta Arenas, the main gateway to the Strait of Magellan, getting around is relatively straightforward. Within the city, you can use local taxis or ride-sharing apps. For excursions along the Strait, such as to Fuerte Bulnes or the Penguin Colony at Isla Magdalena (requiring a boat tour from Punta Arenas), organized tours are available from various operators. However, for true freedom to explore the numerous coastal viewpoints and historical markers at your leisure, a rental car is the most practical and recommended option.

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