The Strait of Magellan is a natural waterway located at the southern tip of South America, separating the mainland from the Tierra del Fuego archipelago. It connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean and is approximately 570 kilometers (350 miles) long. This strait is named after the Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan, who was the first European to navigate it in 1520. The strait serves as an important shipping route, especially for vessels that wish to avoid the treacherous waters of the Cape Horn. It is characterized by its narrow passages and unpredictable weather, making navigation challenging. The region is also rich in biodiversity, with various marine and bird species inhabiting its waters and surrounding areas.