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We were not aware there was such a mass of islands comprising the southern tip of Chile and Tierra del Fuego, many uninhabited. Nor how the Chilean-Argentine border weaves back and forth. At one point today we are within 10 miles of it.
This morning we awake to clouds, fog, and cooler temps. We ferry back to the mainland on a short 30-minute trip accompanied by two species of dolphins (Dusky and Commerson's) and two Magellanic Penguins at close range. Birding along deserted roads finding elusive little species amid flat, expansive grassland we share with sheep, then eventually herds of guanacos. It seems odd and intrusive to see oil wells dot the area along with guanaco and sheep bones, enough to be remarkable. Chilean Flamingos, Darwin's Lesser Rheas with a number of chicks add to the morning. The sun broke out around late morning, but the wind dictated wind gear. Clouds like cotton balls are suspended under a vast blue sky.
We make our way west along the border on our way to Puerto Natales, slowly getting into short trees and then the magnificent Andes come into view. A long snow-capped range demands attention all along the way dotted with lakes. The little town of Puerto Natales looks like it could be set in Switzerland. Our unusual hotel is all black outside with green grass roofs, dark gray slate floors, cement and rough hewn planks decorate the rooms with a picture window overlooking the mountain range. Dinner was a treat with equally unusual dishes: hare, octopus, drinks and dessert using the local califate berry.
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