Winter in Torres del Paine

Head to Torres del Paine in winter for solitude instead of selfie queues

Torres del Paine National Park is open all year. While high summer brings warmer weather, ferocious winds and, it has to be said, crowds, winter brings quiet snow-draped days that melt into long starry nights.

Silence is golden

Low winter sun casts a warm glow on empty trails and deserted pampas creating a perpetual golden hour. In August, the park's famous peaks and paths attract only about 5,000 visitors compared with some 60,000 in February.

What is it really like in winter?

Winter is the least windy season, with short, crisp days. Snow may fall, but mostly on exposed ridges, and higher ground. In any case, park roads are cleared so vehicles can circulate. Average highs are in the range 2°C to 6°C (36-43°F) and average lows stick at around -3°C (27°F).

Of course, Torres del Paine's mercurial microclimate can magic up blizzards at any time of year, so building a flexible winter itinerary around weather conditions, as well as park rules and open lodgings and trails is key.

Winter rules in Torres del Paine

Winter restrictions help to keep everyone safe: you must hike with a certified guide; carry micro-crampons (spikes) at least; snowshoes must be used when needed and vehicles must be fitted with snow tyres.

Which hotels and lodgings stays open

Winter itineraries are possible because a core of accommodation remains operational. Typically Hotel Grey in the west of the park, Estancia Cerro Guido in the east and some refugios on the W trek, such as Refugees Grey and Paine Grande.

These heated lodgings include all meals, allowing multi-day winter stays without discomfort. Torres del Paine winter tours are built around open lodges and hotels first: activities second.

Winter activities in Torres del Paine

Hiking

Guided hiking may include the Base of the Towers and other sections of the W Trek; easier trails such as Laguna Verde and Puente Weber; day hikes around Laguna Azul and into the surreal park borderland of Sierra Baguales. All hikes are dependent on wind, snow and visibility.

Safaris

Join a private vehicle safaris with short walks to see winter wildlife, take pictures and shelter from bad weather. Winter is when Torres del Paine slows down and wildlife steps forward. Fewer vehicles and less chatter may bring them out into the pampas, with snow cover making them easier to track.

Winter kayaking on Grey Lake

Kayaking where Grey Glacier crunches into Grey Lake is intoxicating in winter, when it's just you and the ice and the water and the slivery light.

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