The Costanera of Puerto Natales is one of those public spaces that don’t appear in tourist guides but define the character of a town. It’s a coastal promenade of approximately 3 km that runs parallel to Seno Última Esperanza.
The Sunset
If there’s something nobody can describe until you experience it, it’s the sunset on Puerto Natales’ waterfront. The sun sets behind the hills that frame the sound, and when there are clouds, the sky transforms into a palette of oranges, pinks, and purples that seem from another world.
The best time is between 7:00 PM and 8:30 PM (depending on the time of year). In summer, the sun sets near 9:30 PM, so you have time.
Black-Necked Swans
Seno Última Esperanza is home to a colony of black-necked swans (Cygnus melanocoryphus). During the austral winter (May-September), it’s common to see them from the waterfront, forming groups of 10-20 individuals.
History
Puerto Natales grew around its port activity. The original waterfront was the pier where ships arrived that connected the region with the rest of Chile. Today, the historic pier still stands as heritage, and the waterfront has become the town’s meeting place.
Things to Do
- Bike ride: There are bike paths that run the complete waterfront. Rent at any sports store downtown.
- Picnic: Bring some food and sit on the benches overlooking the sound.
- Fishing: There’s an area where people usually fish from the waterfront (check licenses).
- Cerro Benitez Lookout: For the more athletic, a hike to the viewpoint offers panoramic views of the entire town and the sound.
From Estepa
Our cabins are a 10-minute walk from the waterfront. You can go and come back whenever you want, no car needed. The walk is perfect for after a day of exploration or as a recovery activity before departing for Torres del Paine.