Torres del Paine

Torres del Paine is the crown jewel of Chilean Patagonia and one of the great wilderness parks on earth, a magnificent landscape crowned by the sheer granite spires of the Torres and the horned Cuernos peaks, soaring above turquoise lakes, glaciers, rivers and golden steppe. A paradise for hikers, it is famous for its multi-day W and O treks and its wildlife of guanacos, condors and even pumas, all under the wild, ever-changing Patagonian sky.

What you actually see

• The Torres - the iconic granite towers, reached on a classic day hike.
• The W and O treks - the famous multi-day trekking circuits.
• The lakes and glaciers - the turquoise lakes and Grey Glacier.
• The wildlife - the guanacos, condors and pumas.

When to go

November to March, the southern summer, for the mildest weather, longest days and open trails, though even then Patagonia is famously windy and changeable; the shoulder months of the season are quieter. Book refuges and campsites far ahead for the treks.

Honest expectations

The weather is ferocious and unpredictable, with fierce wind, rain and sun possible in a single day, so proper gear is essential year-round. The famous treks require booking refuges or campsites months in advance, as spots are strictly limited. It is remote, reached via Puerto Natales. The Torres view is a long, steep day hike, not a stroll.

Nearby

Puerto Natales, the Perito Moreno glacier and El Chalten in Argentina are within reach.