Why Torres del Paine
Torres del Paine National Park is one of the world’s great mountain landscapes: granite towers and horns, glaciers, turquoise lakes and guanacos everywhere you look. For most visitors the base is Puerto Natales, about two hours from the park entrances.
The key decision is inside or outside the park. Sleeping inside is essential for the W or O and puts you in front of the mountains at sunrise, but places are few and pricey. Natales is cheaper and more flexible, at the cost of hours on the bus.
Choosing by type of trip
- W or O Trek: refugios or campsites inside the park, booked well ahead.
- Day trips: a cabin or apartment in Puerto Natales.
- Couple after wilderness without a backpack: a lodge or estancia near the park.
- Tighter budget: a hostel or apartment with a kitchen in Natales, in the shoulder season.
When to go
- Good time to save
- Peak season: pricier and busier
- A guide only: varies each year.
Spring and summer (October to April)
The main season, with very long days and every service open. December to February is the busiest and most expensive time, and also the windiest. October, November, March and April usually mean fewer people and better prices.
Winter (May to September)
Snowy landscapes, little wind and very few visitors. Many places inside the park close and some trails have restrictions or require a guide, so check CONAF's current rules before planning.
Getting there
- Fly into Puerto Natales, which has flights mainly in high season, or into Punta Arenas, about three hours from Natales by bus.
- In season, daily buses run from Puerto Natales to the park; the main entrances are around two hours away.
- A rental car gives you more freedom between viewpoints, but some roads inside the park are gravel.
- Park entry must be paid and is usually bought online in advance. Check current conditions with CONAF.