Torres del Paine National Park
CHILE
This is a destination for the adventurous. Despite the extensive travel necessary to arrive in one of the most remote spots in the world, getting here to bask in the expansive land is worth it. Arrival of the plane in Puerto Natales one is met with a sweetness in the air + adventures to be had.
DETAILS
The national park is filled with mountains, glaciers, lakes + rivers in Southern Chilean Patagonia. The Cordillera del Paine is the centerpiece of the park. It is located in the Magallanes region 70 miles north of Puerto Natales + 194 miles north of Punta Arenas. Paine means blue in the native Tehuelche language and is pronounce PIE-nay. The park averages over 250,000 visitors per year and 51 % of the area is made up of protected forests. There are three distinctive granite peaks of the Paine Massif - Torres d’Agostino, Torres Central + Torres Monzino which extend over 8,000 feet above seal level. The well known lakes of this region are Grey, Pehoe, Nordenskiold + Sarmiento. Glaciers of the area belong to the Southern Patagonian Ice Field and are Grey, Pingo + Tyndall.
HIGHLIGHTS
Many adventure seekers come to the area to hike the famous W circuit. Even though the park is open year round it is only possible to hike this route in a self-guided manner between October + April. Otherwise this must be done with a guide. Be aware you must pay a park entrance fee + utilize a ferry in order to arrive at the campsites + hiking area. If you prefer to stay at a luxury accommodation - you can do this circuit in 3 days with one hike each day in each of the valleys. Don’t miss the opportunity to see Glacier Grey up close and be aware of heavy traffic on the base of the towers hike.
W Circuit : 4-5 days
0 Circuit : 6-8 days
Campsites must be booked prior to arrival. The elevation is generally regarded as low, especially fro hikers used to spending time in Colorado, as these mountain formations arise from sea level.
Weather changes by the minute in this region, so one must be prepared with waterproof hiking shoes / boots as well as rain gear + multiple layers of insulation. Also make sure you bring a sturdy back pack + make sure you hydrate well along your way to beautiful vistas.
PLACES TO STAY
Explora Patagonia
Located in the middle of the Torres del Paine National Park, explora Patagonia’s unique location and explorations offer the ultimate Patagonian experience. It is the only luxury accommodations within the national park. It has its own stables, hot tubs great for relaxing after strenuous hikes + has its own catamaran to transport you to + from hikes. The views from this hotel are utterly breathtaking. You wake up + go to sleep with the vast + glorious Patagonian landscape on your doorstep. Daily excursions, transportation + food included in the nightly rate.
Tierra Patagonia
Located on Lake Sarmiento - Tierra Patagonia weaves itself into the landscape blending into the magnificence of the region. Known for it’s amazing architecture + delicious dining experiences.
Ecocamp Patagonia
This lodging is the world’s first dome hotel, which is modeled on the ancient shelters of the region’s Kaweskar people. Ecocamp Patagonia is 100% sustainable and touts its unparalleled experience with little impact on the surrounding environment. Opened in 2001 as the region's first fully sustainable accommodation south of the Amazon. They utilize composting toilets, micro hydro power, wind power, recycling, the minimization of garbage and wastes.
Remember to review the PASEO HEALTH GUIDE for your chosen destination prior to your departure for more detailed information.
You may also schedule a BESPOKE TRAVEL HEALTH CONSULTATION for a thorough travel health assessment prior to your trip.
Safe Travels!