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Puerto Williams is not a historic Spanish town. It was founded in 1953 as a Naval base. Today, with a population of 3000, there Is less Navy and more civilians. People are friendly and say hello. The museum about the native communities is fabulous though comment boards are only in Spanish. The oldest house in Tierra del Fuego, a first evangelical missionary house, is located in front of it. It was brought from England. Many people come to hike the most southern circuit in the world but be aware, it is a tough hike and you definitely need a guide as the paths are not always marked and steep sections are full of slippery rocks and the weather varied according to a couple in the hotel who had just returned from the five day hike.

Puerto Williams looks like it used to be more charming. Perhaps we came during the Christmas and New Years holiday, but nearly all of the shops and restaurants were closed. I heard that it never really bounced back after COVID, but I am hopeful that we were just there during a slow time, since some of the restaurants and shops looks really charming from the outside. A local told us that it's a combination of things. Cruise ships do stop here, so I am hopeful. However, we did walk around and get some snacks from the local market and sat with a wonderful view of the channel to enjoy our purchases. There were some cafes down near the wharf that we didn't have time to visit. All of the locals were very friendly and helpful. Knowing Spanish is a great help.

Charming town with lots of little shops for its size. We were here just after the tourist season which may be why so many were closed. But we came for the trekking which did not disappoint. The town is friendly and myself (49 male) and my 19YO daughter felt comfortable walking anywhere in town at any hour.