The Torres del Paine National Park has been a World Biosphere Reserve since 1978. In this area are found the colossal towers and horns of granite and rock which have made it world-famous, with altitudes of 3,050m above sea level. The climate is unstable and even in summer the winds can reach over 193 miles per hour.

The park preserves fragile eco-systems inhabited by guanacos, foxes, ñandus and flamingos. There are various circuits, and it is possible to do some of them by car, but the most exciting are the paths for trekking and excursions on horse-back.

But adventure in Patagonia does not end here. Beyond the Magellan Strait is Tierra del Fuego. Magellan gave it its name when he discovered the territory in 1520, having glimpsed a series of fumaroles along its coast. These were lit by Selk'nam natives, the original inhabitants, who were violently exterminated during the colonization.

The island, full of mysteries and legends, today invites the visitor to enjoy unique scenery and amazing sites for sport fishing, plus the life on the estancias, observing the flora and fauna and sailing the channels of the south of the world.

Attractions
History
When Ferdinand Magellan sailed through the strait in 1520, he was the first European to lay eyes on Chile. His historic voyage opened the gates to the Pacific, and until the Panama Canal opened in 1914, the Strait of Magellan (and later the Cape Horn route) was the only passage between the world's two greatest oceans. However, the area remained the domain of Selk'nam, Aónikenk,Yamana and Kaweskar nomads until the early 19th century, when Chile established settlements at Fort Bulnes and later at Punta Arenas. The surrounding area was converted into extensive sheep ranches and in the space of few years the remarkable native cultures of the region disappeared altogether.

Geology
The southern Patagonian Andes are composed of resistant granite intrusions, which over millions of years have been sculpted by glaciers into fjords, islands, U-shaped valleys, and the dramatic spires of Torres del Paine. East of the Andes, the landscape transforms into a broad, nearly treeless pampa that makes great wildlife habitat. To the south, the Andes are to the east, forming a chain of rugged, glaciated islands ending at Cape Horn.

Flora and fauna
The forests and pampa of Torres del Paine are home to a remarkable array of easily visible wildlife, including guanacos and foxes, pumas, ñandus (a South American avestruz or ostrich), condors, and flamingos. Near Punta Arenas there are penguin colonies at Seno Otway and lsla Magdalena.

Activities 
Fishing
The rivers and lakes of Tierra del Fuego boast Chile's largest fish, including copious runs of sea-run trout. A world-class lodge on the Blanco river provides guests with unforgettable fishing at the very end of the world.

Navigation
Boat trips departing from Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales follow protected channels through the intensely glaciated Andes, providing the only access to Bernardo O'Higgins National Park and Alberto D'Agostini National Park. Top destinations include the Balmaceda glacier, Seno Almirantazgo, the Beagle Canal (to Ushuaia and Puerto Williams), and of course Antarctica.


Trekking
Torres del Paine is the site of the world's most famous and spectacular treks. These range from 7-10 day circuits (with hut accommodation) to lodging in luxurious inns and hotels, with daily hikes to the Frances Valley, the Torres del Paine overlook, Grey Glacier, and other waterfalls, lakes and glaciers.

Horseback riding
Once a sheep ranch, Torres del Paine is the top destination for horseback trips in this area.