The Torres del Paine National Park is one of the favorite tourist attractions of Chile. This is the real deal for those who want to venture off into nature for some exiting trekking.
The main attraction of this National Park and Biosphere Reserve is its famous mountains, which you have no doubt seen on hundreds of postcards of Chile. You will be pleasantly surprised by its hiking trails, which will take you through forests and by waterfalls and lakes with fantastic views of the snow capped Campo de Hielo Sur (Southern Ice Field).
Enjoy the 17 hours of daylight in summer, and do not miss the sunrise, when the horns of the Torres del Paine Massif turn purple and then red. Take a boat trip on Lake Grey to the glacier of the same name or paddle a kayak among enormous blue and white icebergs.
While the most spectacular views will require a bit of effort, anyone can enjoy the park’s main landmarks by driving around. It is home to 97 km of roads that wind through stunning landscapes that range from Patagonian steppe to forest. This is the perfect place to combine short hikes with a good rest. You can choose from five-star hotels and excellent lodges as well as very comfortable campsites. You can even try “glamping,” an option that involves camping with all the comforts and details of a good hotel.
Another one of the park’s attractions is the chance to photograph native fauna. The animals are not afraid of humans, so you can get close enough to take photos of guanacos, ñandúes, foxes, huemuls and, with a lot of luck, pumas.
Know the experience of our visitors in Chile, through this video!
It is the most notorious and beautiful image of the Park and Patagonia. It consists ofthe Paine Grande, Cuernos del Paine, Almirante Nieto, Paine Chico, and the famous Torres del Paine. There are trekking routes such as "O" and "W.”
Pehoe Lake and Nordenskjöld lake
They are the most famous of the park and have the best views of the Cuernos del Paine. They are surrounded by a landscape of stunning beauty, with the green color of its waters.
Lake and Glacier Grey
This lake is born of the Southern Ice Field and receives the huge icebergs break off the glacier Grey, giving a unique visual spectacle. Enormous floes reach the beach, unique opportunity to be photographed with one of these ice giants. You can also make navigation across the lake to the glacier front.
Salto Grande (Big Water fall)
It is located in the Pehoé sector only 2 Km. from the main route. Despite does not have a great height, just about 15 meters, impressed by the enormous amount of water that descends from the lake to the Pehoé Nordenskjöld. From here you can also take a quiet walk to the point of view of los Cuernos del Paine, one of the best views of the park.
Paine River Waterfall
This spectacular waterfall is in the Paine River in Laguna Amarga, along the road that leads to Blue Lagoon. From here you can see the Torres del Paine, these three granite spires that gave it worldwide fame to the park.
Blue Lagoon
The road between Amarga lagoon and Blue Lagoon is one of the most striking of the park by its mountainous terrain, steppe vegetation and plenty of wildlife, especially guanacos and rheas. The Blue Lagoon is the only place in the park that allows full see of the Torres del Paine without trekking. If you are lucky and there is no wind, these incredible granite formations are reflected in the lagoon.
“W Circuit”
If you have the time, your best option for exploring Torres del Paine National Park is walking the “W” trail. During your four-day, 76.1-kilometer journey, you will pass the park’s most important landmarks, including the rocky paths that lead to the Torres Lookout, the Cuernos Lodge and its visiting condors, the constant murmur of the cracks in the Francés Glacier, and the much-anticipated finale at the Grey Glacier.
“O Circuit”
In ideal conditions, it will take you a week to complete the 93.2-kilometer complete circuit, also known as the “O”. You begin at the Amarga Lagoon area (just as you would with the “W” trail), but the “O” circles the Paine massif and passes through its northernmost area, which will allow you to visit places like the John Garner Pass. This is the highest point on the circuit (1,350 meters) and offers an amazing view of the Southern Ice Field.
Trekking
If you’re in the mood for a special excursion, head to Pingo Valley, a lesser-known destination where you’ll find a lake filled with ice floes, as well as lenga and coigüe forests. It’s the perfect spot to take terrific pictures and do some bird watching.
Another recommended walk is to the Cuernos del Paine. This trek starts at the base of the towers. Walk for five hours to reach these amazing hills. From here you can see the turquoise color of the water of Pehoe Lake.
Birdwatching
Some of the birds that can be observed during this activity are:
Begin your treks early so that you can be sure to get a spot in the camping areas. This is a very popular destination, and a good place to sleep is an essential part of getting a good night’s rest.
High-calorie foods
Don’t forget to bring high-calorie foods to give yourself a shot of energy. Food is available at the lodges, but it can be rather expensive.
Pure water in Patagonia
You can find pure water throughout Torres del Paine National Park, so there’s no need to filter it.
Dress in layers
Dress in layers, even during the summer months. Temperatures can vary significantly over the course of a day and winds can reach speeds of 100 km/h. You may be surprised by the amount of snow in the higher elevations, including the John Garner Pass.
Good physical shape
You will need to be in good physical shape and have the right equipment if you plan on completing the full circuit. If you’re unsure of your ability, you can hire porters to lighten the load.
Keep in mind
-When planning your route, consider the amount of weight you have to carry, your physical fitness level, and weather conditions forthe next day and the following days, which can change from one minute to the next.
-You must carry your own garbage and place it only in designated locations.
-For your safety, stay on clearly-marked paths.
-Camping and cooking are only permitted in designated areas.
-If you go by car, always remember to drive slowly with your headlights on.
-Avoid using soap and dish detergent in mountain camps.
-Do not wash your kitchen suppliesdirectly in natural sources of water.
-If there are no toilets nearby, stay 100 meter away from the natural sources of water.
-When you think you have a fantastic and clear view of Torres or Cuernos, do not hesitate to take out your camera! In 15 or 20 minutes it may get cloudy again, and you will not be able to take the same shot.
-Get information about weather conditions, campsite conditions, and routes before leaving Puerto Natales or at the Conaf offices in the Park.
