Puerto Chacabuco, Chile Cruises

Puerto Chacabuco, Chile Cruise Port

• Catch a tour to the Laguna San Rafael National Park, designated a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in 1979. Here's where you can see (among many things) the Northern Patagonian Ice Field, some of the higher Andes Mountains, and plenty of marine wildlife. Keep an eye out for Chilean dolphins, marine otters, elephant seals, and more.
   
• If you want nature closer to port, check out the Parque Aiken del Sur. A private park only that takes only about 15 minutes to reach by car, this nature preserve and botanical garden includes several nature trails that lead you through a lush forest and scenic waterfalls to the serene Riesco Lake. Especially impressive are the giant ferns, whose leaves dwarf the average human.
   
• For shopping options, you’ll find several stands and kiosks at the port terminal where you can purchase small souvenirs. If you’re in need of something more substantial, take a ride to Coyhaique (around 48 miles) for a much larger variety of items.
   
• There are several shore excursions where you can combine nature-watching with entertainment and a good meal. The Chilean and Argentinean folk dancing is a delightful way to spend some time relaxing after all of the sightseeing.