Faro San Isidro | Punta Arenas

Faro San Isidro – The Southernmost Continental Lighthouse

Overview

Faro San Isidro is a historic lighthouse located on the Brunswick Peninsula, about 75 km south of Punta Arenas, Chile. It marks the southernmost point of continental South America before the Tierra del Fuego archipelago begins. The lighthouse offers a unique combination of history, adventure, and breathtaking landscapes, making it a great destination for hikers and history enthusiasts.

Location & How to Get There

? Brunswick Peninsula, Strait of Magellan, Chile
? By Car:

• From Punta Arenas, drive 75 km south along Route 9 and then take a gravel road toward Bahía del Águila.
• The drive takes around 1.5–2 hours.

? By Foot (Last Section):

• After reaching Bahía del Águila, visitors must hike for about 1.5–2 hours (7 km) along the coastline to reach the lighthouse.

History & Significance

• Built in 1904, Faro San Isidro was one of the first lighthouses to guide ships through the Strait of Magellan.
• It played a crucial role in navigational safety for vessels traveling between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
• The lighthouse is still operational but is now also a tourist attraction.

What to See & Do

1. The Lighthouse Itself ??

• A classic red-and-white lighthouse with stunning views over the Strait of Magellan.
• Great for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset.

2. Hiking the Coastal Trail ?

• The hike to the lighthouse follows a beautiful coastal route along the Strait of Magellan.
• Along the way, you’ll see rugged cliffs, forests, beaches, and wildlife.

3. Wildlife Watching ??

• Spot dolphins, sea lions, and whales in the strait.
• Condors, foxes, and Magellanic woodpeckers can be seen in the surrounding forests.

4. Historic Sites Nearby ?️

• Fuerte Bulnes (a 19th-century fort) is located north of the lighthouse and tells the story of Chile’s claim over Patagonia.
• Puerto del Hambre (Port Famine), an abandoned Spanish settlement from the 1580s, is also nearby.

Best Time to Visit

✅ Spring & Summer (October–March) – Best weather, longer daylight hours
✅ Autumn (April–May) – Fewer tourists, stunning fall colors
⛔ Winter (June–August) – Cold, snowy, and some trails may be inaccessible

Visitor Experience

• No entrance fee, but the hike requires moderate physical effort.
• No services at the lighthouse, so bring your own food, water, and supplies.
• Weather can change quickly, so pack rain gear and warm clothing.

Nearby Attractions

• Fuerte Bulnes – A reconstructed Chilean fort from 1843.
• Puerto del Hambre – A historic Spanish settlement that failed in the 16th century.
• Punta Arenas – The nearest city, offering museums, restaurants, and accommodations.