Puerto del Hambre
Archaeological Site Ruins of failed 16th-century settlement in Patagonia
On Chile’s southern coastline, Puerto del Hambre (Port Famine) is a remote historic site associated with failed 16th-17th-century settlements; historians and expedition visitors come for ruins and stark shoreline scenery.
How to Get to Puerto del Hambre #
Puerto del Hambre lies on the northern shores of the Strait of Magellan, within the Magallanes region. The nearest major centre is Punta Arenas; from there, reaching the site requires a long drive and local directions - many visitors visit as part of organized historical or coastal tours. Check with regional tourism offices in Punta Arenas for recommended routes and permissions.
Tips for Visiting Puerto del Hambre #
- Weather here is extreme and changeable - bring warm, windproof layers even in summer.
- There are few facilities; plan supplies from Punta Arenas or local settlements before setting out.
- Read accounts of the 1584-1587 expedition beforehand - the site's name is a blunt historical footnote about colonial failure and survival.
Best Time to Visit Puerto del Hambre #
The austral summer (December-February) gives the gentlest weather and easiest access; expect cold winds year-round.
Weather & Climate near Puerto del Hambre #
Puerto del Hambre's climate is classified as Tundra - Tundra climate with cold summers (peaking in January) and cold winters (coldest in July). Temperatures range from 0°C to 14°C. Moderate rainfall (767 mm/year), distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
January
January is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (62 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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February
February is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (60 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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March
March is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 5°C. The wettest month with 77 mm of rain, mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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April
April is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (76 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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May
May is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 1°C. The wettest month with 77 mm of rain, mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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June
June is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (66 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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July
July is the coolest month with highs of 5°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (60 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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August
August is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (58 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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September
September is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 1°C. Moderate rainfall (57 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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October
October is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (53 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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November
November is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (56 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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December
December is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (65 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.