Nature lovers in search of some of Chile's most prized birds love the natural wonder of Tres Puentes Wetland (Humedal Tres Puentes). More than 60 species of birds—including the Chiloé wigeon, white-tufted grebe, and the bubblegum-pink Chilean flamingo—reside in this unexpected gem located on the northern outskirts of Punta Arenas.
The Tres Puentes Wetland provides a nesting place for a variety of birdlife, including birds of prey, land birds, and water birds. Protected by both the government and NGOs, the fragile landscape is dotted with observation decks that provide excellent lookouts across the wetland. While most visitors simply wander the landscape armed with a camera and a bird-watching book, pedaling there as part of a Punta Arenas city tour is a popular choice for visitors on the move.
Tres Puentes Wetland is free to visit.
There are paved trails through the wetland suitable for bikes.
Tres Puentes Wetland is an important site for conservation and scientific research.
Tres Puentes Wetland is located on Route 9, around 5 miles (8 kilometers) north of Punta Arenas’ Plaza de Armas. It’s an approximately 12-minute taxi ride, but active travelers can reach it by taking a scenic walk along the waterfront.
There are no designated opening hours at Tres Puentes Wetland. Birding enthusiasts can visit any time of day but should aim for around dawn when the birds are most active. Although it’s open year-round, summer is the best season to visit as this is when migrant birds arrive.
Bird-loving travelers should not miss the chance to visit Magdalena Island (Isla Magdalena) while in Punta Arenas. Located 22 miles (35 kilometers) northeast of the city, the island is home to a large colony of Magellanic penguins. Boat tours depart from Punta Arenas and provide plenty of time to observe the 120,000-strong colony and spot sea lions, elephant seals, cormorants, and Chilean dolphins off nearby Marta Island (Isla Marta).