Torres Del Paine Travel Guide

There are destinations in the world which are within reach of everyone, regardless of age or experience level. Cities like Paris, London, Rome, Athens, or New York can all lay claim to being destinations which are accessible for every traveler, any time. Then there are places that only the courageous dare venture, those destinations where modern infrastructures do not exist, where cell phone coverage is a forgotten luxury, where the only thing between you and the Earth is your feet. Torres Del Paine is such a place.

Located in the extreme southern region of the Patagonian Stepp… read morees, Torres Del Paine is a National Park in Chile, roughly 112 kilometers out from Puerto Natales and 312 kilometers from Punta Arenas. It is bordered by the Bernardo O’Higgins National Park and the Los Glaciares National Park, and it has been designated as a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO since 1978. The name of the park is derived from the Torres Del Paine, a gigantic spur of rock that rises out of the Andes, towering over the surrounding landscape. Separating the mountains and spires are the valleys of the park: Valle del Frances, Valle Bader, Valle Ascencio, and Valle del Silencio.

The two main trekking routes for the park are "The Circuit" which takes a trekker around the park in a complete loop and "The W" which incorporates the main southern highlights of the park. You can get a taste of the park from short walks available from a car or bus, but to truly experience Torres del Paine, one should do one of the treks above.

While remote, the infrastructure supporting Torres del Paine is very good, ranging from very nice hosterias (hotels), to dormitory style refugios, to backcountry campgrounds. Choose wisely and book early as in season the various facilities fill fast.

One thing to remember about Torres del Paine (and Patagonia) is patience. The weather can obscure views for days, but if you are around at the right time, you will be amazed at what the park has in store for you.