Running from the most southern point in mainland Chile (Cape Froward) to Puerto Natales - distance 350 km, approximately pace 30-50 km per day, duration 10 days.
Cabo Froward is the most southerly point of continental South America (not to be confused with Cape Horn, which is situated on Tierra del Fuego, an island). Pitch my tent over there, so that the next day I can climb the nearest mountain with symbolic Cruz de los Mares, where officially I’ll begin my trip. I'll be in running shoes with a minimum amount of luggage (although tent and sleeping bag will be needed). Starting time will depend on the tides table, as on my way two rivers are waiting for me, which crossing is safe in their mouth to the sea only during the low tide.
Actually, the hardest part of this stage of the trip will be getting to the starting point. Cape Froward is in fact beyond the tourist trails. The furthest by public transport I can reach Punta Arenas (I'm looking for a contact to deposit my stuff). From there I’ll try to hitchhike to get as far to the south. Unfortunately, a gravel road ends quickly, and the last 30 km must be cover on foot. Well, here is a small problem - this track is solitary, unsigned, leading through the forests, beaches and cliffs. There are two major rivers to cross and there is no bridge. It remains to cross the ice-cold water on feet, with a backpack on the head (at low tide). Similarly, walking along the beach - much harder and slower it’s at high tide. But I found on web a good route description , and together with Google Earth I entered several control points on my GPS unit. In Puerto Natales (I’m looking for a contact) I would like to pick up my proper hiking gear.
During the trip to the starting point I'm going to drop off food containers every dozen or so kilometres. Thanks to it I'll start with a lighter backpack. I will be picking up and consumed the food on the way back, hoping that the animals won’t get into a sealed plastic containers. I will have no problem with drinking water – plenty around. In Punta Arenas I’ll use a hostel/couchsurfing, and I will continue, by less interesting, but certainly faster paved road to Puerto Natales but detour via Rio Verde and La Junta is under considering (although much depends on the strength and direction of the Patagonian winds).