The Torres del Paine circuit around the famous craggy mountains that crown the Park is one of the world’s classic trekking routes. Breathtaking views together with glaciers, rivers, lakes, forests and abundant wildlife provide the trip with constantly changing sceneries and experiences. This is one of the greatest scenic wonders of the world and one of those places to which all serious mountain-lovers must make a pilgrimage at least once in their lifetime. The circuit, rated strenuous, covers a distance of approx. 100 kms/60 miles. This is a demanding trip, best suited for very physically fit hikers who enjoy camping and hiking in a challenging and remote environment.

The trek is done in an anticlockwise direction that saves the hardest sections until later and prevents the walkers from being stopped by strong wind currents. During summer (Dec-Mar) there are 18 hours of daylight which give the explorers plenty of time for the walking journey.
 

We are offering optional horse-pack and porters support for your personal belongs, allowing you to complete this adventure only carrying your day pack.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Included:

• All ground transport private and domestic as indicated in the itinerary;

• Boat crossing over lago Pehoe;

• Park fees for Cueva del Milodon and Torres del Paine National Park;

• Meals as indicated on the itinerary: B=breakfast, L=lunch, L-=Box Lunch, D=dinner

• One expert English speaking trekking guide and one English speaking assistant guide;

• One Spanish speaking cook & assistant while camping;

• Packhorses to carry all communal gear as well as optional clients gear on day 3, 4 and 5;

• Porters to carry the communal gear and food on day 6, 7 and 8;

• Optional days 6-8 porters will carry the participant’s gear. The maximum amount of gear for these days is 7 kg p/person.

• Complete dinning & camping equipment during the circuit.

Not Included:

• Air fares;

• Insurance (it is mandatory you purchase appropriate insurance for this kind of trips);

• Optional tipping to guides and staff;

• Items of personal nature (laundry, sodas, alcoholic beverage other than our famous pisco sour and wine offered at dinners, etc.)

Vehicles:

A private van will deliver us in Torres del Paine National Park on day 1 and will pick us up on day 10.

Fixed Departures

The trip starts every Sunday morning in the airport of Punta Arenas from October 1st to March 31st. You must arrive from Santiago in the first flight that arrives around noon. The trip ends in the airport of Punta Arenas at 5PM approx. You should book your return flights with the last flight (usually leaves Punta Arenas after 6:30PM).
If wished, you may ask us to also handle your local flights and hotels arrangements while in Chile and/or Argentina.

Physical Demands

The trip, rated strenuous, is recommended for people in excellent physical condition in the habit of walking long distances and camping outdoors. To enjoy this trek it is essential to be in shape before you arrive. It is not wise to regard this trek as a means of getting into shape or losing excess weight. Start a programme of conditioning well before departure -in fact as soon as you book- and be aware that short walks on the flat do little to prepare you for the gradients of the Torres del Paine National Park. Regular aerobic exercise (power walking, jogging, cycling on hills, swimming, cross country skiing, etc) for al least one hour 4-5 times a week is suggested. Additionally, you must be able to sustain exercise for prolonged periods. Consult your physician if you have questions concerning your underlying health. All passengers over 65 years old are requested to send ahead a medical examination that states that they are able to safely accomplish strenuous hiking.  One portion of the 10-day circuit crosses a mountain pass called John Gardner (between Perros and Grey).  This section is very strenuous and takes app. 10 hrs. You should note that we will not reach altitudes over 1,300 mt/4,000 ft on this trek.
 

What you need to bring

Day backpack (30-40lt), mountain backpack, waterproof trekking boots, waterproof parka & pants, inner isolating layer (fleece or wool), three changes of clothes, sun hat, sun screen, hiking socks, sandals (for after hikes and few creek crosses), bathing suit, sunglasses, towel (optional), ski poles (optional). sleeping bag, sleeping pad, long underwear, extra change of socks, gaiters (very useful), flashlight/headlamp, extra insulating layer (fleece, wool, or expedition weight long underwear). A complete booklet with detailed information about what to bring will be sent to you once you book the trip.

Extra services

We can also book and purchase for you at the best rates available the following side services: Domestic flights, Hotel accommodation in Santiago (3 to 5 stars), Airport and Hotel pick ups in Santiago, side trips in Santiago and longer extension trips (rafting, riding, hiking, etc) in other areas throughout Chile.

About the itinerary

The numbers in brackets (distance-kms, time-hrs) are approximated and refer to the trekking portions exclusively.  In general the itinerary submitted and the estimated of time is reasonable for well-fit passengers, considering also good weather conditions and occasional stops for sightseeing and pictures.   

The climate

The vast unbroken stretch of ocean to the west and south of the South American continent leaves the Patagonian Andes very exposed to the saturated winds that circle the Antarctic landmass. Also, both the strong marine and the South Patagonic Icefield influence makes the weather hard to predict. In spring or early summer fine weather may deteriorate almost without warning, bringing rains and eventually snow. Even in summer (December to march) you should come prepared to find cold- strong winds (up to 130 km/hr) and rainfalls. The summers average temperature is 11ºC/52ºF (24ºCmax, 2ºC min).