Things to Do in Cape Horn Chile

 

Cape Horn can be found on Hornos Island in the region of Chile's Tierra del Fuego and is where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans come together. Since the 19th century, ships have sailed around this part of the world on voyages between Europe and Asia, though extreme storms have left a trail of more than 800 ships and a number of lives in their wake. Today, most cargo and cruise ships use the Panama Canal to cross between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, cruise lines sail by this northern section of the Drake Passage on routes to nearby Antarctica.

Cape Horn Lighthouse

If you're lucky enough to take one of these incredible cruises, there is usually a stop-off at the Chilean naval station, weather permitting, which offer us a glimpse of the region's maritime past. Head ashore to see the lighthouse, chapel, and the Cape Horn Memorial monument, where you can also sign a guest book and get your passport stamped for an authentic souvenir of your visit o this incredibly remote region. 

Baby Penguins on Cape Horn

"Round" Cape Horn on a Cruise Through the Drake Passage "

The journey to the end of the earth may not be your classic idea of a “cruise”, as the seas surrounding Cape Horn are subject to adverse weather conditions and high waves. If you want to simply pass by Cape Horn during a larger cruise you can round Cape Horn on the cruise ships from Santiago to Montevideo or Buenos Aires. 

choppy waters around Cape Horn

If you prefer to investigate Cape Horn a little closer, there are adventure cruises, offering a more up close and personal experience and allowing you a more interactive, outdoor nature experience than a traditional cruise. There are many  cruises that sail between Ushuaia and Punta Arenas, with a stop at Cape Horn. Be prepared for wildlife encounters and spectacular glacier viewings, as well as numerous activities that take you way off the beaten path. 

Cruise ship on Cape Horn

If the thought of sailing through the Drake Passage makes you nervous, consider booking a tour from Punta Arenas that includes a scenic flight over Cape Horn. Alternatively, you could charter a flight from Punta Arenas, which might be more affordable if you're travelling with a group or can hook up with some fellow travellers to share the costs. 

 

Climb the Cliff 

When you arrive at Cape Horn on a cruise, you will be taken to the island by your cruise ship's inflatable dinghies (RIBs). On arrival, you will climb across a rocky beach and ascend a slippery, stone staircase to reach the top of the cliff. Take note that this is only recommended for the more adventurous traveller! However, as usually is the case, the impressive views over the ocean and surrounding island, makes the trek well worth it. Follow the cruise ships guide for an all-round safer experience. 

Cruise ship dinghy

Explore Hornos Island 

Keep to the wooden walkways on arrival to  Hornos Island, that lead to all the main sites. These walkways protect a fragile peat-bog ecosystem and keep its visitors’ footwear in a respectable condition! The region receives a lot of rain, so bear in mind that these walkways can be slippery so waterproof boots or shoes with rubber tread are a must.  Allow about two or three hours to walk around Hornos Island and remember to get your passport stamped for the ultimate souvenir of your visit. 

wooden walkway on Cape Horn

Visit the Lighthouses 

Cape Horn is actually the home of two lighthouses: The largest can be found at the Chilean Naval Station and is where a local Chilean family lives all-year-round in nearby buildings. While you can't go inside their homes, just observing the remoteness of the living conditions, offers incredible insight about what it must be like to be the only human inhabitants of Cape Horn. The family has to endure severe weather conditions and their only supplies come from passing cruise ships, bringing vital, essential items to this remote region. 

Lighthouse on Cape Horn

The other lighthouse is smaller, reaching almost 4 metres high and is located about a mile away from the naval lighthouse on the actual "horn." This lighthouse receives fewer visitor as it is not as easily accessible, but cruise ships and their dinghies often cruise by so that guests can observe it. 

 

Visit the Stella Maris Chapel 

The tiny, wooden Stella Maris Chapel can be found next to the main lighthouse at the Chilean Naval Station. This one-room chapel is only about 3 metres long, but its doors are always open to visitors. Here, you can pay respects to the many sailors who lost their way around Cape Horn or imagine the scene of past mariners who stopped here to pray, give thanks or simply be in silence for while on their journeys. 

Stella maris Chapel

Take the Walkway to the Cape Horn Memorial 

One of the wooden walkways, will take you straight to the Cape Horn Memorial, which was built on Hornos Island in 1992. The Chilean section of the Cape Horn Captains Brotherhood, sponsored the construction of this memorial in honour to the thousands of mariners who lost their lives in the waters around the Cape. The marble plaque has a thoughtful blessing and the surround scenery (weather permitting) offers the perfect backdrop along the way.  

Cape horn monument walkway

Pay Your Respects at the Cape Horn Monument 

The Cape Horn Monument features a flying albatross, native to the area and a symbol of the Cape Horn Captains Brotherhood. Designed by a Chilean artist, the monument is constructed of tall steel plates and made to withstand winds of 320 km per hour.  

Cape Horn monument

See the "Actual" Cape Horn 

A visit to Hornos Island wouldn't be complete without seeing the “horn”, where the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean actually come together. This narrow split of land is surrounded by shallow and rocky waters and is not accessible by foot or boat. However, your captain may point it out as you round the bend or, if you are lucky and the weather permits, the conductor of your dinghy can try to get you closer. 

" The Horn"

Get Your Passport Stamped 

When you visit Cape Horn, take your passport ashore to get it stamped. The family that operates the Chilean lighthouse will be happy to perform this service for you.  The passport stamp is an excellent authentic souvenir that baffles immigration officials around the world, as it stands out somewhat from the regular passport stamp! 

 Entrance to the Cape Horn National Park