In short
- Puerto del Hambre marks a failed 1584 Spanish colony.
- Fuerte Bulnes is a reconstructed 1843 Chilean military outpost.
- Both sites are included in the standard park entrance fee.
In this article
When you visit the Strait of Magellan Park, you explore two major landmarks. Though they sit near each other on the Santa Ana Peninsula, their histories do not overlap. Understanding the difference between the 16th-century ruins and the 19th-century fort helps you plan your walk.
What is Puerto del Hambre?
Puerto del Hambre is the ruin site of a tragic 1584 Spanish settlement.
Originally called Ciudad Rey Don Felipe, this colony was led by Pedro Sarmiento de Gamboa. The settlement failed rapidly due to the harsh Patagonia environment. Nearly all the inhabitants died of starvation. This tragedy gave the site its modern name, which translates to Port of Famine. It takes about 30 minutes to visit the ruins.
What is Fuerte Bulnes?
Fuerte Bulnes is a full wooden reconstruction of an 1843 fort.
Chile built the original fort to secure its claim over the Strait of Magellan. It marked the country's first settlement in Patagonia. The current structure was reconstructed in the 1940s. It features a chapel, a jail, log cabins, and cannons. You need about 45 minutes to explore the perimeter. Hold your hat, as the winds here are strong.
How do the two sites compare?
Puerto del Hambre represents early European exploration, while Fuerte Bulnes marks Chilean territorial expansion.
The two sites offer different physical experiences. Puerto del Hambre is primarily a ruin site focused on a tragic historical event. Fuerte Bulnes is a tactile, full-scale reconstruction. Both sit within the 250-hectare park and overlook the water.
| Feature | Puerto del Hambre | Fuerte Bulnes |
|---|---|---|
| Year Established | 1584 | 1843 |
| Origin | Spanish | Chilean |
| Current State | Ruins | Wooden Reconstruction |
| Time Needed | 30 minutes | 45 minutes |
Are they in the same location?
Yes, both are inside Parque del Estrecho de Magallanes.
The park is located 52 km (32 miles) south of Punta Arenas. Puerto del Hambre is slightly separated from the main fort area. If you drive a rental car, you can stop at the ruins easily before or after visiting the main visitor center.
Do you need separate tickets?
No, one entrance fee covers the entire park.
The entrance fee is about 20,000–22,000 CLP for foreign adults and a lower resident rate for Chilean adults. This single ticket grants access to Puerto del Hambre, Fuerte Bulnes, the coastal trails, and the modern visitor center. Park fees are paid directly to Parque del Estrecho de Magallanes.
Should you visit the museum first?
Yes, the visitor center provides valuable context for both sites.
The interpretive exhibition displays the natural and human history of the Strait of Magellan. Touring this museum before walking to the ruins or the fort gives you a better understanding of the early settlers. Allow 45 minutes for the museum.
Questions travellers ask
Can you walk between Puerto del Hambre and Fuerte Bulnes?
Yes, both are located within the park boundaries. You can use the park's trail system or drive between the specific parking areas.
Are there guided tours for both sites?
Yes. Many half-day guided tours from Punta Arenas cover both Fuerte Bulnes and Puerto del Hambre. Tour prices start around 36,000 CLP, not including the park entrance fee.
Is the site open year-round?
Yes, the park is open year-round. However, operating hours change seasonally and extreme wind or weather can affect access.
