Torres del Paine is a national park located in Chilean Patagonia, and is known for its stunning natural beauty.
In 1978 it was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere Program (MAB). We leave you a list of suggestions for this trip.
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The towers
They are one of the main attractions of the park and surely your main interest if you love hiking and nature. The towers have a unique color, with shades ranging from gray to pink, depending on the time of day and sunlight.
They are also known for their imposing, vertical and sharp granite walls, which make the hike to reach them demanding but very rewarding. They are called Torre Sur (also known as Torre Monzino), Torre Central (also known as Torre D’Agostini) and Torre Norte (also known as Torre Paine).
Gray Glacier
It is located at the southern end of the ice field and descends through a narrow valley to the lake of the same name.
The glacier is gray in color, due to the presence of sediments and rocks that have been incorporated into the ice as it advances. It has a length of approximately 6 km and a width of between 1 and 2 km. The height of the glacier at its highest part is about 30 meters. You can take boat excursions to get closer to the glacier and observe its impressive size and the beauty of the blue ice that composes it.
In addition, you can also hike on the glacier with the help of specialized guides and the necessary equipment. Currently the glacier is retreating. It is estimated that due to the increase in regional temperatures and changes in precipitation amounts. Fragments of ice that the glacier breaks off can commonly be observed in nearby places.
The French Valley
You can explore the valley through several hiking routes, which vary in difficulty and duration.
The origin of its name comes from the fact that the owner of these lands was a Frenchman from the province of Alsace named Adrian Bader.
One of the most popular routes is the “French Valley Climb”, which begins at the Italian Camp and extends for about 8 kilometers through forest and rocky terrain until reaching the French Valley Viewpoint. From here, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the valley and the surrounding mountains.
Pehoe Lake
It is a turquoise lake that has an area of around 22 square kilometers and is located at an altitude of approximately 75 meters above sea level.
Its waters come from the melting of nearby glaciers and are quite cold throughout the year. From its shores you can see a panoramic view of the Paine massif. You can also do various activities on the lake, such as boat rides, sport fishing and hiking.
Hiking
There is a wide variety of trails in Torres del Paine, from short, easy hikes to more challenging expeditions. On the park’s website you can check the circuits.
Torres base trail
It is approximately 8 hrs (round trip). 7 km are covered. Difficulty: Medium/High
Vehicular road viewpoints
It can be traveled through the vehicular path, which has 6 viewpoints equipped with interpretive signs.
Route W
It takes 3 to 5 days. On this tour you will be able to visit: Gray Glacier French Valley Torres Base Paine Massif
Circuit “O”
It takes 8 to 10 days. On this tour you will be able to visit: Pannier Coiron Dickson Dogs Passed Flock Paine Grande French Valley Torres Base
Wildlife watching
Torres del Paine is home to a wide variety of animals, including guanacos, foxes, pumas and condors. Observing wildlife in their natural habitat is one of the most popular activities in the park.
Kayak
The park has several lakes and rivers, which offer excellent opportunities for kayaking and enjoying panoramic views of the landscape.
FAQs
When is it advisable to visit Torres del Paine?
In the mountains every season of the year is pure beauty. Although it is possible to visit the park throughout the year, it is recommended to do so between October and April, when you can enjoy days with more than 16 hours of sunlight and less rain.
When is open?
Monday to Sunday and holidays from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. through the gates of Laguna Amarga, Serrano River and Lake Sarmiento. Payment system at www.aspticket.cl
These are just some of the activities and places you can visit in Torres del Paine. Enjoy your trip!
