Museo Salesiano Maggiorino Borgatello
Discover Patagonia's rich heritage at one of Chile's oldest museums, showcasing indigenous cultures, diverse wildlife, and regional history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
See everything without rushing
Museo Salesiano Maggiorino Borgatello
Best Time
See everything without rushing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Patagonia's rich heritage at one of Chile's oldest museums, showcasing indigenous cultures, diverse wildlife, and regional history.
"Absolutely brilliant museum in the town centre. Fascinating look back through history for this region of Patagonia."
💰 Cash is King!
Remember to bring cash (7,000 CLP) as they do not accept cards for entry. :moneybag:
⏰ Double-Check Hours
Opening times can change. Verify before your visit to ensure you can get in. :clock:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Indigenous Cultures of Patagonia
Explore the rich heritage and traditions of the region's native peoples through detailed displays.
Patagonian Wildlife
Marvel at a fascinating collection of taxidermied animals native to the Patagonian region.
Regional History & Exploration
Journey through the history of settlers, explorers, and the development of Punta Arenas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cash Only & Check Hours
A Deep Dive into Patagonia's Past
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Cash is King!
Remember to bring cash (7,000 CLP) as they do not accept cards for entry. :moneybag:
⏰ Double-Check Hours
Opening times can change. Verify before your visit to ensure you can get in. :clock:
⏳ Allow Ample Time
You might need 1.5-3 hours to see it all; some visitors revisit in the same day! :hourglass:
📚 Bilingual Info
Information is available in both Spanish and English, making it accessible for many visitors. :earth_americas:
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Cash is King!
Remember to bring cash (7,000 CLP) as they do not accept cards for entry. :moneybag:
⏰ Double-Check Hours
Opening times can change. Verify before your visit to ensure you can get in. :clock:
⏳ Allow Ample Time
You might need 1.5-3 hours to see it all; some visitors revisit in the same day! :hourglass:
📚 Bilingual Info
Information is available in both Spanish and English, making it accessible for many visitors. :earth_americas:
💡 Fascinating Fauna
The taxidermied animal exhibits are a standout, offering a great look at regional wildlife. :deer:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Museo Salesiano Maggiorino Borgatello for its fascinating and well-presented exhibits, particularly those detailing the indigenous cultures and regional wildlife. The museum's historical depth and bilingual information are highly valued, making it a recommended stop in Punta Arenas. Some guests noted that certain historical interpretations, especially regarding colonization, could be updated.
"The exhibition is very interesting and well presented. The entry is 7.000 peso, only by CASH. Check the opening hours before your visit. In 2025 Feb, the entry is 10AM-12:30PM and 3pm-5:30pm, and it closes 30min after the last entry.
I visited there twice in one day as I couldn't see everything in the morning, so I visited there again in the afternoon. In total I spent 3hours. They have 4 sections and every section is informative. I was especially fascinated by the indigenous people and their culture. You must visit there in Punta Arenas!"
C Lee
"Absolutely brilliant museum in the town centre. Friendly staff and all information is in both Spanish and English. Fascinating look back through history for this region of Patagonia; its indigenous people, the settlers and explorers, flora, fauna and wildlife. Good value and highly recommended. We spent 75 minutes there"
Sarah Collings
"The ground floor was really interesting with all the taxidermied animals, it was cool to learn about the different species of the region. The second and third floors were strange, the information is written in an antiquated way and almost seems to glorify the colonisation that happened. I personally feel that the wording should be updated to reflect current attitudes. Otherwise an interesting museum to spend a short amount of time."
Narayan Randev
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in the town center of Punta Arenas, making it easily accessible on foot if you're staying nearby. Taxis and local buses are also readily available options to reach the museum.
Street parking is generally available in the vicinity, but it can be competitive, especially during peak tourist seasons. Arriving early or considering public transport is advisable.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee is 7,000 Chilean Pesos (CLP). It's important to note that the museum only accepts cash payments.
Opening hours can vary, but typically the museum is open from 10 AM to 12:30 PM and then again from 3 PM to 5:30 PM. It's best to confirm the exact hours before your visit.
Currently, tickets are only available for purchase in person at the museum's entrance, and payment must be made in cash.
While specific accessibility details can vary, many historical buildings may have limitations. It's recommended to contact the museum directly for the most up-to-date information on accessibility.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors find that 1.5 to 3 hours is sufficient to explore the museum thoroughly. Some even visit twice in one day to fully absorb the exhibits.
Yes, the museum provides information in both Spanish and English, making it accessible and informative for international visitors.
Key attractions include detailed exhibits on the indigenous peoples of Patagonia, a fascinating collection of regional fauna, and historical displays about the region's development.
While not explicitly mentioned in all sources, the well-presented exhibits and bilingual information often make self-guided tours very informative. Inquire at the entrance for any available tour options.
It is one of Chile's oldest museums, founded in 1893, and plays a crucial role in preserving the cultural and natural heritage of Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego. 
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not appear to have a cafe or restaurant. However, Punta Arenas has numerous dining options in the town center, a short walk from the museum, offering local and international cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's generally best to check for signage at the entrance or ask staff if photos are permitted, especially without flash, to protect the exhibits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The museum's historical displays also provide a good opportunity to teach kids about different cultures and the past. Remember to bring cash for tickets and check the opening hours beforehand to plan your day effectively. The bilingual information is also helpful for families with diverse language backgrounds. 📚 History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts
🚶 Solo Travelers & Budget Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Patagonian Heritage
The museum also boasts impressive displays of regional flora and fauna, featuring taxidermied specimens that showcase the diverse wildlife of Patagonia. This section is frequently praised for its educational value and the sheer variety of species presented. Beyond natural history, the museum chronicles the historical development of the region, including the arrival of settlers, explorers, and significant milestones like the discovery of oil. While the historical narratives are compelling, some reviewers note that certain exhibits, particularly those related to colonization, may use outdated language that reflects historical attitudes rather than contemporary perspectives.
Overall, the Museo Salesiano Maggiorino Borgatello offers a comprehensive and engaging experience for anyone interested in understanding the multifaceted identity of Chilean Patagonia. Its central location and bilingual information make it a highly recommended stop for travelers seeking to connect with the region's past and present.
Navigating Your Visit: Practicalities and Tips
Opening hours are also a vital consideration. While typically open in the mornings and afternoons, the exact times can fluctuate. Visitors are strongly advised to verify the current opening hours before heading to the museum. Many travelers find that a single morning visit isn't enough to fully appreciate the exhibits, with some opting to return in the afternoon or dedicating a significant portion of their day to the museum, often spending between 1.5 to 3 hours.
For international visitors, the museum's commitment to providing information in both Spanish and English is a significant advantage, ensuring that the rich historical and cultural narratives are accessible to a wider audience. The friendly staff and well-organized displays contribute to a positive and informative visit, making it a highly recommended destination in Punta Arenas.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit