Torres del Paine National Park at the southern tip of Chile is filled with rushing rivers, cascading waterfalls, multi-colored lagoons, massive glaciers, deep blue lakes, and sky-piercing mountain peaks. Wild Patagonia is a true spectacle of nature, best experienced in person.

Bleak cold is the main feature of southern Patagonia during most of the year. At these extreme latitudes, icy conditions prevail. So much so that town officials in Punta Arenas (host to the largest regional airport with connections to Santiago) installed ropes and chains along the sidewalks to help pedestrians haul themselves forward in the face of lashing winds and rain.

Summer is different. From December to February, the austral days become long (up to 18 hours of daylight) and temperatures become friendlier, although the chance of sudden foul weather persists. During this time, travelers flock like migrating birds to Patagonia’s far southern reaches, hoping to have weather on their side as they explore vistas of unparalleled beauty.

From Punta Arenas it is 3 hours over land to Puerto Natales, the town that provides entrance to Torres del Paine National Park, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve since 1978. The reserve takes its name from the Cordillera del Paine, a clustering of mountain peaks located on 2,400 square kilometers of territory that sidles up to the border with Argentina.

The name of Torres del Paine National Park refers to three tower-like granite monoliths, one of the most visited attractions within the park.

An extensive and well-marked trail network connects the park’s valleys, glaciers, lakes, and rivers. Options for Torres Del Paine tours range from day-long outings with a return to a comfortable hotel in Puerto Natales to multi-day treks such as the famous ”W” Circuit with overnight stays at campsites and basic lodges in the national park. (For an idea of what to expect on a day tour, read about LAFL travel advisor Silvana’s trip to Torres del Paine.)

Whatever your travel style, Torres del Paine guarantees a feast for the eyes. Cameras can only begin to capture the magnificence of cerulean lakes, the panoramas of wide valleys speckled with flowers, the quiet force and mass of ancient glaciers, and the fine shading of sediments that settled into hard rock many eons ago, and that were then thrust into the air by earth’s tectonic movements and sculpted by glacial action into gorgeous forms that look like spires, needles, blades of swords, and tusks. This is scenery that fuels the imagination, a landscape that appeals to aesthetes and adventurers alike and that inspires both to plan a vacation in Chile.

For lovers of fauna, Torres del Paine does not disappoint. Guanacos, a cousin of the llama, happily roam on open grasslands, enjoying such protection that they’re almost indifferent to approaching humans. The rare ñandú (rhea) makes its home here and the elusive condor is known to make an appearance. Other bird species include hawks, harriers, owls, flamingos, swans, ibises, and woodpeckers. With such a display of nature at its finest, Torres del Paine earns its place as one of Chile and South America’s natural wonders.

Wildlife in Torres del Paine National Park.

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Anabel Mota

Anabel has been exploring the length and width of South America since 2010. Ditching preconceptions, settling into the local pace, and embracing the unexpected are the tenets of her philosophy of travel – and life.

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Located in southern Chile, Torres Del Paine is a stunning national park, which was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The park is perfect for any outdoor enthusiast as there is plenty of natural beauty to explore. Lush valleys, turquoise lakes, mountain backdrops, and striking glaciers are the principal attractions for a trip to Torres Del Paine. From guided tours to trekking expeditions there are plenty of options for those looking to explore Chile’s natural wonders on their vacation.

There are many ways to travel from Chile’s capital, Santiago, to Torres Del Paine. Flights and comfortable long distance buses will take you to either Puerto Arenas or Puerto Natales. However, Silvana recommends staying in Puerto Natales, before making your way into the park. Puerto Natales is a very cozy town which offers travelers a great base for exploration of Torres Del Paine. Though Puerto Natales offers a wide variety of accommodations, Silvana recommends staying at the Indigo Hotel, which will add a touch of  luxury to your Patagonia travel. This five-star hotel was Silvana’s favorite hotel during her trip, “The rooms are very comfortable and have beautiful views of the mountains, landscapes, and waters.” She also recommends guests check out the spa, as it is the perfect way to unwind after a day of travel or hiking. Another bonus to staying at Indigo is their delicious breakfast buffet, which is sure to give you a boost before a full day of exploration in Torres Del Paine.

This beautiful picture of Lake Grey was captured during Silvana’s tour from Puerto Natales which ended at Torres Del Paine.

From Puerto Natales travelers can make their way to this national park via public bus, private transfer, or take the tour which stops at natural attractions during the drive. Silvana highly suggests that travelers break up the drive by taking the tour. She personally enjoyed the stop at Lake Toro viewpoint which provided beautiful vistas, as well as the 20 minute walk along a path to reach Lake Grey, where they were greeted with spectacular views of the Grey Glacier.  The tour concludes by dropping travelers off at their hotel located inside the park, making it a convenient tour to take on the way to Torres Del Paine.

Upon arrival to Torres Del Paine, Silvana took full advantage of her opportunity to explore one of Chile’s most beautiful regions. Words cannot do justice to the stunning scenery that Silvana was able to explore, but her pictures are sure to convince everyone that a trip to Chile’s Patagonia is a worthwhile adventure.

The Pehoe hotel on Lago Pehoe, Chile

This fabulous photo features the Pehoe hotel located on Lake Pehoe. Obviously this hotel boasts some of the most memorable views of the lake and its surroundings: the views of the nearby Cuernos in the upper right hand of the picture are especially unforgettable.

Silvana enjoying her vacation in Patagonia, Chile

Silvana is standing in front of the gorgeous Lake Nordenskjold. She passed this blue beauty on one of her many hikes. She recommends hiking in this area as it is relatively flat, and there are many short routes perfect for those looking to do a light day of exploring! Those staying at Hotel Las Torres have access to this area and can make hikes independently; otherwise a guide is needed.

Torres Del Paine is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. If you want to learn more about Torres Del Paine or want to start planning your Patagonia vacation contact one of our travel advisors today!

Latin America For Less

Latin America for Less is a group of travel experts who live, work, eat, and breathe all things South America. Their inspiration stems from a deep appreciation for the beauty and diversity that make this continent so special.

www.latinamericaforless.com