Torres del Paine is a Chilean national park, situated in the southernmost region of Patagonia, and is pleasantly surrounded by lakes, mountains and glaciers. Its name refers to the towers of Paine, which are actually huge rock structures in the park area.
Anyone who sets foot in Torres del Paine is immensely awed by its incredible natural beauty. In fact, some travel experts consider it one of the most magnificent mountain parks in the world. In addition, it also hailed as a UNESCO World Heritage Reserve. These are the reasons why Torres del Paine, is one of the best places for hiking.
Most hiking trails throughout the park are well-marked enough that you can follow them without a guide. A self-guided hike or trek will also allow you to make the journey at your own pace. However, the advantage of taking a tour is an experienced guide can make sure that you don’t miss out on all the points of interest, including distinct plant and wildlife, along and off the trails. Tour companies usually provide hiking and camping equipment necessary for specific routes. Hiking tours vary in length depending on your available time. It can be a day tour or can stretch out to seven days. Some of the notable outfitters operating in the park are Chile Tours, Compa Tourismo, Go South Adventures, Vaya Adventures, and Expediciones Chile.
You will find numerous hiking trails in the park’s 598,000-acre land area but for multi-day hiking, there are two main circuits that have hit it big with travelers. The W Circuit is one of the most popular hiking routes within the national park zone. It took its name from the fact that the circuit forms the shape of the W letter. The W Circuit goes through the Campamento Las Carretas and Refugio Paine Grande, and allows you to get stunning views of snow capped mountains, the magnificent Grey Glacier and the three rock towers, which the park is named after. The W Circuit is ideal if you are not an experienced hiker, and is typically completed in about 5 days. However, you will still encounter some challenges that will make finishing this trek absolutely rewarding. Because of its length and popularity, the W route does draw a number of hikers and trekkers.
The El Circuito draws in more hardcore hikers, and hikes can last from 7-10 days. It typically starts from Laguna Amarga guarderia and goes around the Torres and Cuernos del Paine. By following this circuit, you will also pass through the same areas as the W trek, but you will cover additional sections.
When it comes to sleeping arrangements while following the circuits, you have two options either staying at refugios or camping. Refugios are accommodations situated in strategic areas in the national park that follow a hostel theme. While refugios are more convenient and comfortable, camping is the cheaper option; and can really bring you closer to the luscious environment. Fortunately, you also have the choice to mix it up by staying at refugios on some days and pitching a tent on others.
The town of Puerto Natales is the usual access point to the Torres de Paine National Park, with buses running daily from the town straight to the park.
