Welcome to Patagonia, Chile

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That is a big glacier


February 13th - We have not left Puerto Natales since arriving yesterday, but already this place has been striking.  Not least as we flew south, tracking Chile's awe inspiring coastline and mountains down the spine of the country. I was on the side of the plane away from the Torres del Paine but the scenery was still exquisite.  There were countless glaciers snaking their way between countless snow-capped mountains before settling themselves into still more countless lakes and fjords.  Landing into the windswept Puerto Natales airport was bumpy but immediately we were surrounded by the unbridled ruggedness of this high-latitude wilderness.  There was a pleasant breeze, it was warm and the sun was out, but none of that could disguise the sense that Patagonia can turn on the raw power of its nature at a whim, and no doubt when it does, it is awesome.

Walking the tarmac

We went for an after dinner stroll, saw a Chilean punk band in the central square, and this engine, all the way from Bristol, England

Today we got our bearings in town, battled the ferocious winds, enjoyed the sun-soaked emerald waters of the strait, and marveled at the whitecaps and bird life, all being tossed around in the higgledy-piggledy maelstrom.  We like it here!

Sculptures on the waterfront, enjoying the breeze

Just about staying upright

Beautiful play structure, nice view



Puerto Natales shares its latitude with London, although today it felt more like the west coast of Scotland

There is definitely a prevailing wind here!

Maybe we don't need to leave town

Tuesday we head into the park on a marathon bus tour to get a little closer to the wonders of Torres del Paine National Park.  

    

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