About

• Features

  Located in southern Chile, this national reserve is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. The rugged Patagonian landscape is home to two major routes. The "O Circuit" is a 126-km circuit through the Cordillera del Paine. The other, the "W Circuit," is a shortened version of the O Circuit. At 67 kilometers, it is only half the distance and is popular because it is easier to follow. The "Torres del Paine," as the park is named, is made up of three rocky peaks formed by sharp granite, and is an iconic sight.

• History

  Florence Dixie, considered the first foreign tourist to visit the region, mentioned the area in her book published in 1880, calling Torres del Paine "Cleopatra's Needles.” Later, many scientists and explorers set foot in the park, which was established as a national park in 1959 and given its current name 11 years later. In 1976, the British mountaineer John Garner and others pioneered a circuit trail around the Paine massif.

• Nature

  Torres del Paine is a 3,000-meter-high massif that suddenly appears in the Patagonian steppe. Aquamarine water flows through the park, and vast glaciers lie in its midst. To the west of the park, the Southern Patagonian Ice Field extends, with glaciers large and small flowing out of it. The view of the Grey Glacier from John Gardner Pass is breathtaking. It is said that you can experience all four seasons in one day, and observe a wide variety of vegetation. The endangered Andean deer, the gray fox, the condor, and other wildlife can be seen here.

• Despite its geographical location at the edge of the Patagonian wilderness, Torres del Paine National Park, also known as the "End of the World," attracts outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world. Towering granite peaks, vast glaciers, breathtaking mountain trails, and ever-changing weather. The area, which is characterized by both natural beauty and harshness, attracts 250,000 visitors every year. Of the several trekking routes, the most representative routes are the "O Circuit" and the “W Circuit.” Both routes highlight the Cordillera del Paine, symbolized by three sheer rocky peaks. The O Circuit is a 126-km loop around this mountain range. On the back side of the range, where hikers are few and far between, you will not be able to get close to the large rock formations, but can enjoy the typical Patagonian scenery. The trip takes seven to 11 days, but be sure to allow plenty of time for the region’s infamous unstable weather. For those who cannot spend a longer period of time, the W Circuit is recommended. At 67 km, it is about half the distance of the O Circuit and allows you to visit its highlights. The itinerary should be around four to six days. Surrounded by mountains, the Valle Frances has captivated the hearts of many. Here, one can view Glacier Frances, a suspension glacier attached to a rock wall. To the west of the park, the Southern Patagonian Ice Field and Grey Glacier extend, providing abundant water for the turquoise lakes. The Grey Glacier is not included in the W Circuit. The highest point on the O Circuit, the John Gardner Pass pass, offers a view of the massive 20-km-long glacier below. Camping is mandatory on the back side of the O Circuit and it is not possible to walk the trail unless a tent site has been reserved. On other parts of the trail, you can stay in huts called refugios. The region is also known for its strong winds. The windiest season is from November to January, which also coincides with the peak tourism season, so be careful to take wind and cold protection measures. *Please check local websites for the latest information.