Torres del Paine Trekking FAQ

Where is Torres del Paine?

Torres del Paine National Park is in Chilean Patagonia. Specifically, the Province of Ultima Esperanza, which is in the region of Magallanes (Region XII). Punta Arenas, the region's capital, is 312 km from the Park entrance and Puerto Natales, gateway to the Park, is 112 km away.

How do I get there in 2025?

By Bus

Buses run direct to Puerto Natales from Punta Arenas (around 3 hours) and crossborder from El Calafate in Argentina (5-6 hours).

From Puerto Natales buses to the first Park entrance at Laguna Amarga take just over two hours. Buses continue on to Pudeto (30 mins), from where you can catch the catamaran across Lago Pehoé to Paine Grande Mountain Lodge (30 mins).

From Laguna Amarga, shuttles meet the buses and run to and from Refuguios Torres Central and Norte and the start or end of the W Trek.

By Air

Sky Airline flies to Puerto Natales from Santiago de Chile, Puerto Montt and other Chilean cities. Flights are weather dependent. LATAM flies regularly to the city of Punta Arenas and less often to Puerto Natales.

By Ferry

Navimag runs more or less weekly ferries from Puerto Montt to Puerto Natales through the Patagonian Fjords. The voyage takes about four days, but is weather dependent.

What is the weather like?

Unpredictable. In summer 100 mph winds are not unusual, and when the wind blows from the Patagonian Ice Cap temperatures can drop 10 degrees Celsius in minutes. On the other hand, hot sunny days are also common. Generally, summer temperatures range from 41F (5C) to 68F (20C) and winter temperatures from 28F (-2C) to 43F (6C). Waterproof, windproof clothing is essential for trekking in Torres del Paine.

Is there an entrance fee to Torres del Paine?

Yes.

Torres del Paine Entrance Fees - Non-Chilean Nationals

Adults (18-59 years)
- Up to 3 Days: $32,400
- More than 3 Days: $46,200
Youth (13-17 years)
- Up to 3 Days: $16,600
- More than 3 Days: $46,200
Children (0-12 years)
- Up to 3 Days: Free
- More than 3 Days: Free
Seniors (60+ years)
- Up to 3 Days: $32,400
- More than 3 Days: $46,200
Persons with Disabilities
- Up to 3 Days: $32,400
- More than 3 Days: $46,200

Torres del Paine Entrance Fees 2025 - Chilean Nationals

All prices are in Chilean Pesos (CLP).

Tickets must be booked in advance.

Adults (18?59 years)
- Up to 3 Days: $9,400
- More than 3 Days: $13,500
Children (0?12 years)
- Up to 3 Days: Free
- More than 3 Days: Free
Youth (13?17 years)
- Up to 3 Days: ?
- More than 3 Days: $7,800
Seniors (60+ years)
- Up to 3 Days: Free
- More than 3 Days: Free
Persons with Disabilities
- Up to 3 Days: Free
- More than 3 Days: Free

Source: www.pasesparques.cl from where you can buy tickets.

When is the park open?

All year, between 8:00am and 6:30pm.

The entrances at Laguna Amarga and Río Serrano are open from 7am to 8pm.

Portería Sarmiento is open from 8am to 7pm.

Visitor Centres are open from 8am to 6pm every day. Some trails have strict start times. For example, the Base Torres trek must be started at Laguna Amarga by 9am.

What are refugios?

Refugios are lodges, which offer basic accommodation to trekkers in shared dormitories as well as meals and usually hot showers. Book them via Las Torres or Vertice Patagonia . Alternatively, join a group Torres del Paine tour .

Where can I camp?

Only at designated camping grounds.

Which direction should I hike in?

You must hike the Circuit in an anti-clockwise direction and this avoids beginning the trek with the most difficult section, the John Gardner Pass, and avoids walking into strong headwinds while you're up there. Hiking the W from West to East leaves the most difficult hike, The Towers, until last, but either direction is allowed.

Do I need to carry a tent?

To hike the Circuit you will probably need to camp at Los Perros at least, although you may be able to hire a pre-set tent with sleeping mat and sleeping bag, but check in advance. There are now no open campsites on the pass, so you must be able to hike some 17km from Los Perros to Refugio Grey in one day.

Can I trek on my own?

In theory yes in summer between October and April on the W and Cirucit trails, but check for restrictions. Different rules apply in winter when you must join a group tour. In addition, on some trails you must be accompanied by a guide.

Can I buy food in the park?

Meals are served at the refugios and most have well-stocked but expensive shops selling trekking supplies, such as dried pasta.