Both mountain ranges are the sources for the numerous, large metamorphic and igneous cobbles found all along the South Atlantic coast of the island. Hydrocarbon resources play an important role in the economies of both the Argentine and Chilean sides of the island. Numerous oil and gas fields are exploited on land and offshore, particularly in the northeastern sector of the island. Nearly all of the Argentine oil and gas is sold to Chile. The vegetation in the foreground is typical of the steppeland throughout Patagonia.
Few people realize that Chile has an Atlantic coast.
The northeasternmost part of Tierra del Fuego, where the Straits of Magellan enter the South Atlantic Ocean, and the coastline for about 15 km to the southeast are in Chilean territory. In addition, several Chilean islands on the south side of Tierra del Fuego, including Cape Horn, face the Atlantic. This photo was taken at Punta Catalina, the northeasternmost point of Tierra del Fuego. The Straits of Magellan stretch to the west.