Trekking the Mighty Torres

Bite-sized trip

Itinerary:
Puerto Natales - Torres del Paine W-Trek - Puerto Natales
Duration:
6 days - 5 nights
Price:
from £1.175 per person (excluding flights)

This Torres trekking adventure is for real hikers. You will walk to the iconic granite towers at your own pace. After this you'll leave the groups behind you as you walk to the next refugio. On average you'll trek for about 7 hours a day; don’t underestimate this as it's a mountainous area. A good level of fitness and some sturdy walking shoes will definitely come in handy here.

Days 1-2 – Arrival in Puerto Natales

When you arrive a transfer will be waiting to take you to your locally run hotel, near the centre of town. Your room is clean, cosy and has a heater. In the lounge you can relax next to the open fire. We recommend stocking up on some snacks and water for the next few days.

Puerto Natales – Torres del Paine

You’ll have an early start today as you head to the bus station to catch the bus to the entrance of the park. At the entrance you’ll register yourself so keep your passport handy. From the entrance a smaller bus will take you to your first refugio where you’ll settle in at one of the dorms with bunk beds and shared facilities.

When you’ve settled in you can start your trek to the viewpoint – the peaks of the Torres. It’s quite a trek; 7 hours in total so best to ask at reception what time the sun sets. Along the first part of the route you can enjoy a view of lakes, glaciers and mountains whilst walking through forest. The second part is the most strenuous but you’ll be rewarded with the view of the famous peaks. You will walk the same way back to the refugio where you can enjoy your first meal in the park.

Day 3 – Torres del Paine – trekking

After breakfast you’ll take your gear and head off to the next refugio. It’s about 7 miles and should take around 4-5 hours, less difficult than yesterday. Enjoy your trek and take the time to sit down, enjoy the views and breathe in the fresh mountain air. You’ll see the Nordenskjold lake which owes its name to a Swedish explorer who discovered it in the early 20th century. Depending on your pace you’ll arrive early or late afternoon at the refugio.

Day 4 – Torres del Paine – trekking

Today is going to be a long day if you’re choosing the most beautiful route. You’ll walk about 11 miles and so it’s best to start off early. With clear views you’ll see a multitude of rock formations with strange names such as “the mask” and “the shark”. A part of the way back goes along the same path and then on to Pehoe where the next refugio is situated.

Days 5-6 – Torres del Paine – Puerto Natales

Today is a special day as you’ll not only travel by foot but also by boat. You’ll start early towards Grey refugio. The ferry ride on the lake departs from here and takes about an hour. It’s a relaxing end to the last few days. After the boat docks you’ll travel back to Puerto Natales by bus and transfer. Here you’ll stay another night in Puerto Natales in the same hotel you stayed in before.

Departure from Puerto Natales

After breakfast you’ll say goodbye to your host and make your own way to the bus stop, ready for the journey to your next destination. There’s no airport in Puerto Natales, so you’ll have to travel onwards overland.