Tierra del Fuego Province

Tierra del Fuego is a province covering the western portion of the island by the same name at the southern tip of Chile. It features a landscape of small lakes, coastal stretches, and mountains spread across a large area.

European explorers first reached this region in the 16th century, but gold discoveries in 1879 sparked major settlement and permanent habitation. This period transformed the area from a remote frontier into an inhabited territory.

The Yaghan and Selk'nam peoples shaped this land for generations, and their presence remains visible in place names and local memories. Visitors can learn about their ways in museums and through conversations with people who live here.

The province is mainly accessible by ferry from the mainland port of Punta Arenas. Exploring the area works best with your own vehicle or a guided tour, as settlements are scattered and distances are large.

Bahía Inútil gets its name from British geographers who considered it useless for anchoring ships due to poor conditions. The bay retained this unusual name despite its actual value to the region.

Location: Magellan and the Chilean Antarctic Region

Capital city: Porvenir

Shares border with: Magallanes Province, Antártica Chilena Province, Río Grande Department, Tolhuin Department, Ushuaia Department

Website: http://gobernaciontierradelfuego.gov.cl

GPS coordinates: -53.60000,-69.38333

Latest update: December 20, 2025 13:49