The good news: southbound travelers will receive a boost from some VERY strong tailwinds. The bad news: there's little shelter, even less natural water, and lots of vehicle traffic on this busy stretch of highway.
From Puerto Natales, head northeast out of town on Avenida Santiago Bueras and begin climbing. Swing a right (and head east) on Ruta 9 as you continue climbing. You'll be on this (paved) highway all the way to Punta Arenas. Near the 10 km mark, the road will curve to the southeast and those pesky crosswinds will now be at your back. As you pedal through windswept plains, there's not too much to look at; however, after a tough climb (near ~50 km), the route passes Laguna Arauco where you're within a stone's throw of the Argentina border.
Harsh Conditions!
We'll be honest, this route sucks: water is scarce, the wind is brutal, and traffic is heavy. Fortunately, buses run daily between Puerto Natales and Punta Arenas and fares start at $7,000 CLP (~$11 USD). The primary service operators are Bus Sur and Buses Fernández. Bicycle transportation usually costs extra and the driver might require that you remove all your panniers and/or your front wheel.
Directions
 |
Puerto Natales |
|
|---|---|---|
| Head northeast on Avenida Santiago Bueras; slow-but-steady ascent begins (+230 m / 13 km) | ||
| 4 km | Turn right (northeast) onto Ruta 9 (caution! crosswinds) | |
| 10.5 km | Route turns southeast (commence tailwind) | |
| 29.5 km | Downhill (-130 m / 6.5 km) | |
| 45.5 km | Uphill (+160 m / 7 km) | |
| 53 km | Mirador Laguna Arauco | |
| 63.5 km | Route turns west | |
| 102 km | Route turns south | |
| 104 km | Gradual ascent begins (+120 m / 14.5 km) | |
| 139 km | Downhill (-130 m / 7.5 km) | |
| 147 km | Villa Tehuelche | |
| 149 km | Route turns southeast | |
| 173 km | Gradual descent begins (-200 m / 14.5 km) | |
| 200.5 km | Mirador Laguna Cabeza de Mar | |
| 224 km | Hola, Strait of Magellan! | |
| 228 km | Aeropuerto Internacional Presidente Carlos Ibáñez del Campo | |
|
Punta Arenas |
Camping Recommendation
Villa Tehuelche Bus Station
In the small community of Villa Tehuelche,there is a bus station with a pitched roof that can provide shelter from the wind for passing cyclists. The space is small, but there is space for a few sleeping mats. There might also be wifi from the nearby government building (not a reliable connection).
Location |
|---|
| -52.427112, -71.413531 |
Category |
|---|
| Bus station |
Cost |
|---|
| Free |
Water Source |
|---|
| Tap (building across street) |
Highlights |
|---|
| Shelter |
Tour Total
Explore Nearby
The above route information is intended to be used as a guide in conjunction with your own due diligence. Although Bicycle Patagonia is a product of extensive research, we make no representations, guarantees nor assurances as to the accuracy of the above information or the associated .gpx and .kml files. Prior to beginning the route, be sure to check local weather forecasts & road conditions. While out riding, respect Patagonia – follow all public and private land use restrictions, carry proper safety and navigational equipment, and always #leavenotrace.