Arrival In Puerto Natales

I arrived in Puerto Natales, from Punta Arenas, late Tuesday afternoon by bus. The bus stop was next to a one story building, with a few shops inside, including the tourist welcome center.

Not knowing how to get to my hostel, I asked the information kiosk and they provided me with a map and marked the path to my destination, which was about a 20 minute walk away.

There weren't too many people along my walk. I passed a few hostels, bodegas, restaurants and other miscellaneous shops.

Most of the buildings were also one story buildings and nothing more than 2 stories...that I can remember. 

Wild Hostel

The Wild Hostel entrance had a nice outdoor patio. Inside, I entered a common area with a couple of sofas and a coffee table. Adjacent was the dining area, with a couple of long tables for eating. And the receptionist counter was to the side.

I checked in right away, with no issues, and was taken to my room. I had to go through the backyard to access the entrance to my room, which was facing outside. The other rooms were similarly situated.

I opted for a private bedroom, to spoil myself before camping out the rest of my trip. There was a dormitory style room option, I think sharing with 12 other people. I honestly never stayed in a dormitory, although I would one day like to try it. I also snore loudly, so I would feel bad for the other residents.

Currency Exchange

After I put my bag down, I needed to get some Chilean pesos. I went back to the receptionist and was told to walk a block away, where I should find some shops that could exchange money.

It was almost closing time, about 8 PM, so I was cutting it close.

I went into a small bodega and exchanged about 200 american dollars. I don't know if I got the best deal, but it seemed ok for the options in the area. There was a bank at the corner, but it was already closed when I arrived.

Dinner Time And Beer

When I got back to the hostel, I was ready to eat and I was excited by their menu options.

I ordered their signature "Wild" burger, which I recommend. I also tried 3 of the local beers by Cerveza Austral, which were really good. And finally a brownie dessert. I figured this was my way of carb loading for the adventure to come.

There were other guests there and I started a conversation with one of them. There was also a welcoming resident hostel dog.

By about 10 PM, I headed back to my room and took some pictures in the backyard area. It was still bright outside and it wasn't until after 11 PM that it truly turned dark.

Morning Breakfast

I woke to my alarm and headed to breakfast. It was about 8 AM and I was the only guest there. I asked where the others were, and most already left a couple hours earlier for day tours,

Breakfast included the options of oatmeal, nuts, breads and jams.

I forgot exactly when I did this, but I was instructed by the tour company to email them that I was there, and they would give me a pickup time. The email response told me to be ready at 12:30 PM for pickup. My checkout was at 11 AM, so I had time to waste.

Check Out And Pickup

After breakfast, I took a shower, which I assumed might be my last for awhile. I also organized my luggage some more, including filling my socks with 2 Toms, which prevents blisters for the hike.

Then I checked out and waited in the common area for the tour company.

The wait was productive, and I uploaded pics I took so far and posted them to Facebook. Then I sent last goodbyes to my family, assuming I couldn't message them for at least another week.

My pickup came on time and I was on my way!!