Diterbitake: 17.12.2017
From Castro, I would like to go directly to Puerto Natales. Unfortunately, the route via Chaiten is not possible, as the ferry only operates twice a week, which happens to be right in between. So, I have to go back towards Puerto Montt for now. I leave early and hope to catch a connecting bus there. Hope dies last, but it dies. There are no buses to Puerto Natales. Also, my alternative destinations are not served from here, or the next bus only departs in 2 weeks. So, I decide for the only possible destination in my desired direction, Punta Arenas. However, this bus only leaves the next day. That was not planned, so I have to trek uphill again with all my belongings to find a hostel. I find a good one and spend a relaxed day there.
The next morning, the 30-hour journey begins. Although I asked when buying the tickets, I couldn't believe it, but the lady was not lying to me. It is just a normal bus. No 'bed seats' or any comfort. I have both seats in the back of the bus all to myself. So, it's bearable.
The journey starts off relaxed. Then it becomes curvy. The seat in the back of the bus almost becomes my demise ^^. Luckily, we stop after 30 minutes and my stomach can recover. Now my head is a bit confused. We are at the border to Argentina. Now I understand why the bus driver insisted on seeing my ID. Due to the lack of roads on the Chilean side, the route leads through Argentina.
So far, so good. Otherwise, the journey goes smoothly. I watch a lot of Spanish movies, sleep reasonably well, and enjoy the landscapes.
Upon reentering Chile, the customs take away some groceries that I bought 2 days earlier in Chile. It doesn't make much sense to me, but those are the rules I guess.
When I arrive in Punta Arenas, I am greeted by a lot of wind. This time I even have a hostel reservation, so I can make my way uphill with determination once again :)