Torres del Paine National Park

The basics

Rock climbers and ice hikers come to Torres del Paine National Park for adventure, while others enjoy the networks of trails that wind past herds of guanaco and through this Patagonia wilderness, occupying 1,100 square miles (2,850 square kilometers) of open space. The easiest and safest way to access the wilderness—home to Grey Glacier, Milodon Cave, and Lake Pehoe—is on a guided tour, which quickly takes travelers to the park’s most spectacular viewpoints, even if arriving from places further afield such as Puerto Natales. Guided tours are especially valuable for those coming from Argentina, as traveling with a guide takes the stress out of border crossing. Tours emphasize a range of outdoor activities, including sightseeing, hiking, rock climbing, and kayaking.

Things to know before you go

• Make reservations for the lodges and dormitories (or refugios) inside the park well in advance, as they fill up quickly; this applies to campsites, as well.

• The wind can greatly increase the chill, so dress in warm layers.

• Many Torres del Paine National Park tours offer next-day pickup for those who want to spend a night camping in the park.

• Wear appropriate clothes and shoes for walking on rocky, uneven surfaces.

How to get there

Torres del Paine National Park is about 5 hours north of the town of Punta Arenas, the closest major city. Most visitors arrive at the Carlos Ibáñez Airport, about 12 miles (20 kilometers) north of town, with direct flights from most major Chilean cities. There are also ferries, geared to tourists, that make the trip. By bus, it's about 3 hours on a gravel road from Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales, the closest major town to the park, 70 miles (112 kilometers) away, with a range of hotels and other services. While Punta Arenas is worth exploring, you can catch a bus right from the airport to Puerto Natales. Buses run from there to, and throughout, the park.

When to get there

The park reaches peak popularity from October to March; book everything well in advance if you plan to visit during this window. January is the warmest month, July is the coldest, and May is the rainiest.

Wildlife spotting

Guanacos are as much a part of the Patagonian landscape as mountains and lakes. These long-necked animals are the ancestors of modern llamas. They’re part of Patagonia’s “Big Five.” The other wildlife on the list? The Andean condor, the huemul, Darwin’s rhea, and the puma. Torres Del Paine National Park is also home to more than 100 species of birds and several species of reptiles.

Ways to explore

Rock climbers and ice hikers come to Torres del Paine National Park for adventure, while others enjoy the park’s networks of trails. The most popular multi-day trek is the 5-day W Circuit, but the gruelling O Trek is a worthwhile challenge.

If you don’t have a week to spare, day trips from Puerto Natales are a great way to see the highlights. Guided tours are especially valuable for those coming from Argentina, as traveling with a guide takes the stress out of border crossing. Tours emphasize a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and kayaking.

Accessibility

Uneven terrain and steep mountain routes mean that Torres del Paine National Park is inaccessible to wheelchair users.

Age limits

None; teens get discounted entry, while kids under 12 can visit the park for free.

What to pack

Even if you don’t usually use them, walking sticks will make it much easier to explore the rugged routes. Rent some crampons if you’re trekking outside of the peak summer months, too.

What to wear

Patagonia is renowned for experiencing four seasons in one day, so ensure your clothing prepares you for anything.

Not allowed

Pets, swimming, camping in undesignated spots, open fires, leaving litter

Amenities

Campsites, mountain huts, small food and drink kiosks, tours

Address 

The closest major city to Torres del Paine National Park is Puerto Natales. Most visitors fly here and then take the shuttle to the park entrance. There are direct flights from most major Chilean cities.

Driving

From Puerto Natales, take Route Y-290, which connects with the Serrano entrance in Torres del Paine Park. The journey takes around two hours and is mostly smooth.

Public transportation

By bus, Torres del Paine National Park is about three hours on a gravel road from Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales, the closest major town to the park. Buses run from there to—and throughout—the park.

Best times to visit

Be prepared for an early alarm when it comes to day trips or treks in Torres del Paine National Park; most days of the W Trek involve upwards of 8 hours of hiking, so you’ll want to get an early start.

Best days to visit

Weekdays see fewer domestic tourists, so opt for midweek if that suits your schedule.

Best months to visit

From December through February, there are more tourists than usual, since the days are longer, the weather is nicer, and most of the trails are available.

Special events

You’ll see the most condors in Torres del Paine National Park from November through March, when warmer weather draws the birds out for hunting.