Torres del Paine Circuit
11 Days Starting and ending in Puerto Natales, Chile
Visiting: Puerto Natales, Torres del Paine National Park, Glacier Los Perros, Grey Glacier, French Valley, Torres del Paine
Tour operator:
Tour code:
PNC
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
3 - 12
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Torres del Paine Circuit in Patagonia, Chile. This tour offers an exhilarating journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park. Experience the thrill of hiking the renowned O-Trek, circumnavigating the majestic peaks, and marveling at the iconic Towers of Paine. Enjoy a spectacular boat trip via the Balmaceda Glacier and a kayaking excursion on Lake Grey, where you'll paddle amidst stunning icebergs. The tour includes camping in the heart of the park, with porters to assist in carrying gear, and a bilingual guide to enrich your experience. With awe-inspiring scenery, abundant wildlife, and the chance to explore the French Valley and Grey Glacier, this adventure promises an unparalleled exploration of one of the world's most beautiful natural wonders.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Join Puerto Natales
Location: Puerto Natales
Accommodation Name: Hotel Vendaval or similar
Join Puerto Natales* and make your way to Hotel Vendaval or similar. This evening, attend a welcome briefing at the hotel. Dinner is not included. Enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure, exploring the local area.
Overnight: Hotel Vendaval or similar.
* Puerto Natales has an airport with flights from Santiago. Alternatively, there are flights to Punta Arenas and El Calafate and a bus can be taken from there to Puerto Natales (additional cost applies). Please ask us for more details.
Day 2 : Boat To Torres Del Paine National Park Via The Balmaceda Glacier
Location: Torres del Paine National Park
Accommodation Name: Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A spectacular day cruising to the head of the Fiord to see glaciers tumbling down from the mountains, seals and abundant bird life. We continue on to the National Park by Zodiac. We skirt glacial blue lakes and pass herds of guanaco and rhea as we approach the towering peaks. The Horns of Paine are right before us, as is Paine Grande, the largest of this range. On arrival we transfer to our campsite for this evening. The experience of trekking in Patagonia will spoil you for most other trekking areas the scenery is truly awe-inspiring. Blue glacial and ice-berg strewn lakes combine with dramatic granite peaks and snow covered mountains which lead to the Patagonian ice-cap.
Overnight: Camp.
What you carry: Day pack
PLEASE NOTE: The boat trip is on a shared service basis and is weather dependent. If boats are not able to operate due to weather conditions, we will organise alternative transportation into Torres del Paine National Park.
Day 3 : Commence Torres Del Paine Circuit Trek (4-5Hrs – 10Kms)
Location: Torres del Paine National Park
Accommodation Name: Camp Seron
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Transfer to the beginning of the Trek from Las Torres Refuge area to Camp Seron. Trek with your main pack – assisted with porters. Today’s walk is a great introduction to Torres del Paine as we follow the Rio Paine. The trails are well defined and not overly undulating. The mountain views, the nice perspective of the Towers and the surrounding mountains, coupled with meadows of daisies, clear running streams and woods that smell of fresh beech, make it a great day.
Overnight: Camp Seron.
What you carry: Trek with larger backpack – assisted by porters
Please note: 1 porter is provided for every 2 passengers, these are not private personal porters but will carry up to 7.5kg of clients personal gear plus any required equipment for the group. They will accompany us as far as Paine Grande.
Day 4 : Trek To Lago Dickson (6-7Hrs – 19Kms)
Location: Torres del Paine National Park
Accommodation Name: Camp Dickson
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We continue around Paine by heading north and then west towards Lago Dickson. Each stage of the trek provides a different perspective of the Towers as we head out into the most isolated section of the circuit. Nestled on the shores of the pristine Lago Dickson, the campsite and refugio offer breathtaking views of the surrounding Patagonian peaks. Waking up to the serene views of Lago Dickson is an unforgettable experience, making this site a highlight for trekkers exploring the Torres del Paine National Park.
Overnight: Camp Dickson.
What you carry: Trek with larger backpack – assisted by porters
Day 5 : Trek To Los Perros (4-5Hrs – 9.5Kms)
Location: Glacier Los Perros
Accommodation Name: Camp Los Perros
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A short ascent brings us to a natural viewing platform where we obtain more comprehensive views of the mountains and glacier beyond Lago Dickson, and towards our evening campsite near Glacier Los Perros. We walk through dense forests for most of the day, over fallen trees. The Magellanic Woodpecker can be heard although it is sometimes difficult to spot the actual bird. The key is to keep still when you hear them and look for the male which is black with a striking red head. The trail meanders through the forest, over many streams and past waterfalls on the Rio de los Perros. We cross the river again and come to the base of the Glacier Los Perros, where a crater surrounds the lake. Here we will be out of the forest and again exposed to the wind. Fortunately our camp nearby is sheltered by the elements, surrounded by beech forest.
Overnight: Camp Los Perros.
What you carry: Trek with larger backpack – assisted by porters
Day 6 : Trek Over John Garner Pass To Camp Grey (10-11Hrs – 22Kms)
Location: Grey Glacier
Accommodation Name: Camp Grey
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today's trek is the most challenging part of the circuit. Starting with a gradual uphill walk through dense forest, you’ll soon face muddy sections and a large stream, which requires crossing with the aid of a rope. The trail continues uphill over rocks and snow drifts, clearly marked by fluorescent orange markers, leading to the pass. Here, the famous view unfolds, featuring the forest, a glacial lake dotted with icebergs, and the stunning Grey Glacier against the backdrop of the Patagonian ice cap. Strong westerly winds at the saddle of the pass may shorten your stay, but the sight is breathtaking. The descent to Campamento Paso is steep and requires careful navigation, descending over 700m. The path is cluttered with fallen trees and varies in elevation, eventually leading to a natural rock viewing platform overlooking the glacier—perfect for a break. Although it might seem the toughest part is over, the journey to Camp Grey continues to be strenuous with larger obstacles and more frequent elevation changes. Reaching Camp Grey offers a scenic respite, reminiscent of a tropical beach but with icebergs floating in the water. Here, you can unwind with cold drinks and a hot meal, making all the effort worthwhile.
Overnight: Camp Grey.
What you carry: Trek with larger backpack – assisted by porters
Day 7 : Trek To Refugio Lago Pehoe (5Hrs – 13Kms)
Location: Torres del Paine National Park
Accommodation Name: Camp Paine Grande
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today is our last day with porter support. We begin at 9 AM with a 2.5-hour kayaking excursion on Lake Grey, where we will paddle close to large icebergs and approach the eastern side of the glacier. Upon returning to Camp Grey for lunch, we commence our trek to Paine Grande. The initial part of the trek involves a gradual ascent with some steep intervals, providing magnificent views of the glacier and a path lined with wildflowers beside mountain lakes, creating a picturesque route. The second half of the trek is a gradual descent, leading us to our campsite beside the vibrant Lake Pehoe. This location rivals the beauty of Camp Dickson, encapsulating the quintessential elements of Patagonia—wind, snow-covered mountains, dramatic skies, emerald lakes, and rich biodiversity. We will spend the night here, immersed in the stunning Patagonian environment.
Overnight: Camp Paine Grande.
What you carry: Trek with larger backpack – assisted by porters
Day 8 : Walk Via French Valley To Refuge Cuernos (8-10Hrs - 30Kms)
Location: French Valley
Accommodation Name: Camp Cuernos or Camp Frances
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today’s hike starts with the serene beauty of a nearby lake and increasingly stunning views of Cerro Paine Grande. After crossing a suspension bridge, we arrive at Italiano Camp, nestled beside the roaring Rio del Francés, where a well-deserved break awaits. The trek continues up the French Valley towards the Paine Grande lookout. The path flanks the Cuernos del Paine on one side and the Frances Glacier on the other, with the Rio del Francés winding its way from the glacier. This area, shaped by glacial forces, features challenging and steep sections.
As we ascend, the occasional ice falls from the Frances Glacier crash onto the rocks below, echoing dramatically across the valley. The climb to the Paine Grande viewpoint takes about an hour from Italian Camp. We then retrace our steps down the valley, pausing to admire waterfalls and the river-sculpted landscape stretching out towards Italian Camp. The journey continues along the trail to Camp Cuernos, where we'll rest for the night.
Overnight: Camp Cuernos or at busy times camp Frances
What you carry: No porters. You will need to carry your larger backpack and day pack.
Note: If you would like to trek without your larger backpacks for Days 8 & 9, these can be stored and transferred to Torres on day 9. Please request this with your guide (no additional cost). You will still need to carry enough personal equipment for the next two days and one night. We will provide a sleeping bag free of charge on Day 8 only, so that you don't need to carry it for two days.
Day 9 : Trekking Along Lake Nordenskjold, To Camp Torres (4Hrs - 11Kms)
Location: Torres del Paine National Park
Accommodation Name: Camp Torres or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, our trek takes us along the picturesque Lake Nordenskjöld towards Torres Ranch. En route to the Torres Refuge, we'll leave behind the Cordillera Paine, home to a cluster of granite peaks, as we head towards the Ascencio Valley, preparing for tomorrow’s walk to the base of the towers. This section features flat terrain, making for a pleasant hike.
Overnight: Camp Torres or similar.
What you carry: No porters. You will need to carry your larger backpack and day pack.
Day 10 : Ascend To Base Of Towers Of Paine (8-10Hrs - 19Kms)
Location: Torres del Paine
Accommodation Name: Hotel 3 Pasos or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today involves a challenging 8-10 hour round trip hike to the base of the Torres del Paine, though we'll be free of our main packs. An early start is advisable to catch the sunrise illuminating the towers, casting them in vibrant shades of red and pink. For those with energy to spare, an additional hour's trek can take you to the Japanese Camp further up the valley. On our descent, we might face the strong winds typical of this region. After returning to Camp Torres, we'll transfer to Hotel Tres Pasos or similar hotel, a traditional Magellan-style house. This is the perfect place to end the trek with a traditional farewell dinner and reflect on mountains you have just trekked around.
Overnight: Hotel 3 Pasos or similar.
What you carry: Day pack
Day 11 : Trip Concludes Puerto Natales
Location: Puerto Natales
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast transfer to Puerto Natales where the trip concludes. If you are planning to visit Los Glaciares, Perito Moreno and/or El Calafate, then please ask our staff for details of tourist buses that cross the border directly from Torres del Paine Park or from Puerto Natales.
PLEASE NOTE: All trekking times and distances are approximate.
What's Included
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Accommodation
2 nights hotel -
Group medical kit
A group medical kit is included for the safety and well-being of all participants.
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Transport
All group transport as detailed in the itinerary is included, except for airport transfers.
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Tours
All guide fees and park entrance costs on all sections mentioned in the trip itineraries are included.
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Group camping equipment
Group camping equipment, including tents, sleeping mats, and cooking equipment, is provided. Sleeping bags are not included but are available for hire.
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Porter assistance
One porter is provided for every two clients on days 3-7 to assist in carrying gear, with a maximum of 7.5kg per person.
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Boat trip
A boat trip via Balmaceda Glacier to Torres del Paine is included.
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Kayaking on Lake Grey
A kayaking excursion on Lake Grey is included.
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Specialised bilingual guide
A specialised bilingual guide is included for the duration of the tour.
What's Not Included
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International airfares and departure taxes
International airfares and departure taxes are not included in the tour package.
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Internal flights
Internal flights are not included in the tour package.
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Airport transfers
Airport transfers are not included in the tour package.
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Additional porter hire
A porter can be hired for days 8-9 at an additional cost if required. This must be pre-booked with World Expeditions before departure.
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Drinks during meals
Any drinks during meals at hotels, restaurants, or refugios are not included.
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Sleeping bag
A sleeping bag is not included but can be hired at an additional cost.
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Tips
Tips are not included in the tour package.
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Items of a personal nature
Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, and drinks of any kind are not included.
What You Carry
For most of the trip you will only need to carry a day pack (days 3-7). However, you will need to carry your full pack on some days of the trek (days 8-9). Porters will carry a portion of your gear (maximum 7.5 kg per person) from day 3 until day 7. Each porter has their own pack; we suggest you use a waterproof stuff sack for the gear you would like to give to the porter. You will need to carry your main pack, with the reduced weight on those days. If you would like to trek without your full packs for days 8-9, your main luggage can be stored at Refugio Pehoe and will be transferred to Camp Torres on day 9. Please request this with your guide (no additional cost). You will still need to carry enough personal equipment for the next two days and one night. We will provide a sleeping bag free of charge on day 8 only, so that you don't need to carry it for two days. Alternatively, a porter can be hired for days 8-9 at an additional cost if required. This must be pre-booked with World Expeditions before departure.
Accommodation
Enjoy 2 nights in a hotel on a twin share basis, with camping in two-man tents in Torres del Paine National Park for the rest of the tour.
Grading
This is a moderate grade trek with challenging stages. In particular the crossing of the Paso John Garner is a challenging 10 hour day. The terrain on the other side of the pass is physically challenging, being extremely steep and uneven. It is for this day that participants should be of good to excellent fitness. We strongly recommend people make their commitment to joining us as early as possible, preferably three months prior. This allows adequate time to implement a solid fitness-training program and ensures that all the correct clothing and equipment is obtained. It also allows you to be well prepared mentally and committed to the trip objective. Your fitness program should include regular aerobic exercise of at least forty-five minutes, four to five times a week. Hill/stair climbing (with a pack) is the best training, as this is the very activity you will be doing on trek. Building your leg muscles and lungs should be emphasized, although different activities can be incorporated in your schedule for variety and convenience. This can include running, swimming, cycling or gym classes. Rest and a good diet are equally important. Age and gender do not have great bearing on one's suitability for a trip - the level of fitness, measured by aerobic capacity and stamina is more important, as is the ability to be consistent in your performance and state of mind throughout the trek. Being relaxed in the outdoors (in all of nature's moods!) in a foreign country is a very important quality to have. If you want to get a lot out of the trip, you will!
What You Carry
For most of the trip you will only need to carry a day pack (days 3-7). However, you will need to carry your full pack on some days of the trek (days 8-9). Porters will carry a portion of your gear (maximum 7.5 kg per person) from day 3 until day 7. Each porter has their own pack; we suggest you use a waterproof stuff sack for the gear you would like to give to the porter. You will need to carry your main pack, with the reduced weight on those days.
If you would like to trek without your full packs for days 8-9, your main luggage can be stored at Refugio Pehoe and will be transferred to Camp Torres on day 9. Please request this with your guide (no additional cost). You will still need to carry enough personal equipment for the next two days and one night. We will provide a sleeping bag free of charge on day 8 only, so that you don't need to carry it for two days.
Alternatively, a porter can be hired for days 8-9 at an additional cost if required. This must be pre-booked with World Expeditions before departure.
Mode of Transport
The tour includes all group transport as detailed in the itinerary, excluding airport transfers. A boat trip via Balmaceda Glacier to Torres del Paine is also included.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the Torres del Paine Circuit tour?
The tour includes 2 nights in a hotel on a twin share basis and camping in two-man tents within Torres del Paine National Park.
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Are meals included in the Torres del Paine Circuit tour?
Yes, the tour includes 10 breakfasts, 9 lunches, and 9 dinners.
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Is there porter support available during the trek?
Yes, there is porter support available from days 3 to 7, with one porter for every two clients to assist in carrying gear up to 7.5 kg per person. A porter can also be hired for days 8-9 at an additional cost if required.
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What should I expect in terms of physical difficulty on the Torres del Paine Circuit?
The trek is of moderate grade with challenging stages, particularly the crossing of the Paso John Garner, which is a challenging 10-hour day. Participants should be of good to excellent fitness.
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What kind of wildlife might I see during the tour?
While walking through the awe-inspiring scenery, you may encounter wildlife such as guanaco, rhea, and the Magellanic Woodpecker, among other birdlife.
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Is kayaking included in the tour activities?
Yes, there is a 2.5-hour kayaking excursion on Lake Grey included in the tour, where you can paddle close to large icebergs and approach the eastern side of the glacier.
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What is the highlight of the trek on Day 10?
Day 10 involves a challenging hike to the base of the Torres del Paine, with the opportunity to catch the sunrise illuminating the towers in vibrant shades of red and pink.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
We have offices on three continents which means your travelling companions will be just that – international and wonderfully eclectic. Part of small group travel means that although travellers come from various locations and backgrounds, you will be travelling with like-minded companions who, like you, are keen to share the experience and forge lifelong friendships.
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What about environmental impact?
We believe that adventure travel revolves around establishing a strong relationship with the people and environments in which we operate. Our responsible travel policies have been carefully developed to ensure that we minimise the impact of our presence and help to protect the regions we visit while contributing positively to the local community.
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What should I pack?
Your pre-departure documents include a detailed packing list with items that you need to bring. While most of the equipment for daily activities is included in your tour cost, some items like helmets and hiking boots are best brought from home. The pre-departure documents also include information on layering and recommended brands for various items to ensure you are fully prepared for your trip.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes. World Expeditions does not require single travellers to pay a surcharge for travelling alone on the vast majority of our trips. Our holidays are primarily on a twin share basis, so if you are joining the group as a solo traveller, we will match you with someone of your own gender. The choice is yours however; if you prefer not to share, we do offer single supplements for private occupancy.
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Are tips included in my trip price?
Tips are not included in the tour cost. Tipping is a personal thing, do not worry about how much, or when, to tip. Tipping guidelines are provided for certain destinations in our pre departure information upon booking, however the best advice will be provided by your tour leader.
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Am I suited to small-group travel?
We recognise that many of our travellers have not been on a ‘group trip’ before. Yet what our departures provide is both structure and flexibility, allowing you plenty of freedom within the framework of the itinerary. You’ll find that with our maximum group size at 16, you’ll travel in a minimal impact style with a great group of like-minded travellers.
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Can you advise which vaccinations are recommended?
While our pre-departure kit provides information on vaccinations, we suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
World Expeditions allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform world expeditions, 70 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
World Expeditions requires a minimum deposit of 400 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of world expeditions charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.