Charles Darwin in Patagonia
Charles Darwin is perhaps the most famous visitor to have touched foot in Patagonia. A renowned British naturalist and geologist, Darwin formed part of the crew on The Beagle, a chartering ship that sailed around Chile’s southern cone.
“In calling up images of the past, I find the plains of Patagonia frequently cross before my eyes: yet these plains are pronounced by all most wretched and useless.” – Charles Darwin
Darwin spent considerable time exploring the Patagonian coast between 1832 and 1834, making observations that would later contribute to his theory of evolution. His journals from this period provide fascinating insights into the landscape, wildlife, and indigenous peoples of the region.
The Beagle Voyage
The HMS Beagle’s voyage was originally planned as a two-year surveying expedition, but it extended to nearly five years. During this time, Darwin collected thousands of specimens and made detailed geological observations that would revolutionize our understanding of natural history.
In Patagonia, Darwin was particularly struck by the fossil remains of extinct mammals, which he found embedded in the cliffs along the coast. These discoveries, including giant ground sloths and armadillo-like creatures, raised profound questions about the relationship between extinct and living species.
“The zoology of Patagonia is as limited as its flora.” – Charles Darwin
Despite his initial impressions of Patagonia as a barren wasteland, Darwin came to appreciate its unique character. His experiences here shaped his understanding of adaptation and survival in harsh environments, concepts that would become central to his evolutionary theory.
Today, visitors to Awasi Patagonia can explore many of the same landscapes that inspired Darwin’s groundbreaking work, experiencing firsthand the raw beauty and scientific importance of this remarkable region.
You might enjoy
Awasi Artist Immersion – Carolina Salom
Textile artist Carolina Salom delved into the world of natural dyes, experimenting with Misiones' iconic red Ñau mud, various jungle fungi, yerba mate, and roots from local trees.
Awasi Artist Immersion – Andrés Paredes
Argentine visual artist Andrés Paredes returned for his second Awasi Artist Immersion programme, this time staying at the Awasi Atacama. Moving from the jungle into the otherworldly landscape of the Atacama Desert totally changed the nature of his work.
Awasi Artist Immersion – Florencia Echeverría
Visual artist and sculptor Florencia Echeverría from Rosario, Argentina, explored the Atlantic Rainforest's biodiversity and created nature-inspired installations during her residency.
Awasi Artist Immersion – Cecilia Nigro
Argentinian ceramicist Cecilia Nigro explores the alchemy and intrinsic processes of material metamorphosis. Fragility, morphology, and the almost absence of colour permeate her works.
Awasi Artist Immersion – Angela Bulich
From biologist to jewellery designer, Angela Bulich creates sculptural jewellery experimentally. Everything I know about the craft I learned backwards, beginning making jewellery as art.
Ingrid Weyland – Topographies of Fragility
The Argentine-born artist and photographer employs a unique technique in her work: she applies crumpled images on top of her photographs to highlight the impact man has on nature.
Teresa Marcaida – Nature, Art and Mankind
As you watch, as you listen to the beauty of the evening, in that extraordinary quietness when almost everything seems to be motionless, you are then in complete communion, in complete harmony, with everything about you.
Rainer Gross – Double Takes
Contemporary artist Rainer Gross explores perception and reality through his photographic series that challenges viewers to look twice at familiar landscapes.
Iliana Díaz López – “Portales del Ara Pyau”
Mexican artist Iliana Díaz López creates mystical portals inspired by Guarani cosmology and the sacred landscapes of the Atlantic Rainforest.
Awasi Atacama unveils new Astronomy Tour
Experience the clearest skies on Earth with our new astronomy excursion. The Atacama Desert offers unparalleled stargazing opportunities, and our expert guides will take you on a journey through the cosmos.
The Tehuelches Indians: the native tribes of Patagonia
Sadly, disease and conflict brought about the demise of these people, but when the channels of Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego were first navigated, visitors happened upon a unique culture.
