One might not expect these two small towns, at the edge of the world, to have such elaborate public art. These are purely jumping-off points to get to the scenic riches of Torres del Paine National Park, Ultima Esperanza Fjord, and the wilds of Patagonia. But if you have a few hours in either city, its worth a stroll to find the parks and waterfronts, and the public art installed there. From the shiny toe – kissed thousands of times a year for good luck – on the statue of Ferdinand Magellan in the Plaza de Armas in the heart of Punta Arenas, to the whimsical locals that seem to have been lifted up and carried away by the wind, or even the giant miladon sloth at the entrance to Puerto Natales… these statues and more are certainly worth a few moments.
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent.
Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio.
In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day.
Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took.
Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
Kenneth Dropek
2 days ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.