Magellan and the Chilean Antarctic Region

Magellan and the Chilean Antarctic Region stretches from the Strait of Magellan down to the Antarctic continent, covering four provinces with mountains, glaciers and deep fjords. The landscape shifts from windswept steppes in the north to ice-covered islands in the far south.

Chile established a penal colony here in 1853 that later became an important trading post for ships traveling around Cape Horn. The territory was granted provincial status in 1929 and reorganized into a region with its current boundaries in 1974.

Punta Arenas is home to many descendants of Croatian immigrants who arrived in the late 19th century and built one of the largest Croatian communities outside Europe. Their cafés, bakeries and family names still shape the city today and influence the local food scene.

Wind blows strong here all year round, so bring warm layered clothing and pack a waterproof jacket. The best time to visit is between November and March when days are longer and many tours to glaciers and national parks operate.

This region administers the Chilean claim to a section of Antarctica, making it the only administrative unit in Chile with jurisdiction over two continents. The coat of arms includes a Southern Cross and a penguin, both symbolizing the close link to the southern polar sea.

Location: Chile

Capital city: Punta Arenas

Elevation above the sea: 214 m

Reference: XII

Shares border with: Aysén Region, Tierra del Fuego, Antarctica and South Atlantic Islands Province, Santa Cruz Province

Website: http://goremagallanes.cl

GPS coordinates: -53.16250,-70.92250

Latest update: December 15, 2025 00:33