Plan your visit
Plan your Visit
Prepare for Patagonian weather, book your bus tickets from Puerto Natales, and organize your daily hiking route.
Getting there
Getting to the park entrances
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus: Regular shuttle buses (e.g., Bus-Sur) from Puerto Natales terminal to park entrances like Laguna Amarga and Pudeto. | 2 to 3 hours | Check with bus companies | Multiple morning departures starting around 6:45 AM. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended during the high season. |
| Boat: Catamaran across Lake Pehoé connecting Pudeto and Paine Grande. | 30 minutes | Varies by operator | Essential for hikers starting or ending the W Trek at Paine Grande. Tickets are usually purchased on board. |
| Car: Drive via Route 9 and Route Y-150 or Y-290 from Puerto Natales. | 1.5 to 2 hours | Varies by rental agency | Provides flexibility to visit viewpoints like Salto Grande. Parking is available at major entry points like Laguna Amarga and Pudeto. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The park is open year-round. November to March offers the best hiking weather. The O Circuit is closed entirely during the winter. Late April to early September requires a guide for specific trails.
What to bring
Your ticks are saved in this browser only.
Lighting fires is strictly prohibited.
Camp stoves are only allowed in designated camping areas.
How the day runs
Sample daily plans
A full day exploring accessible lookouts and lakes without heavy hiking.
- Depart Puerto Natales
Take a shuttle bus or join a guided tour heading north on Route 9.
- Mirador Cuernos
Walk the easy trail for panoramic views of the horn-shaped peaks.
- Salto Grande
Visit the powerful waterfall connecting Lago Nordenskjöld and Lago Pehoé.
- Lunch at Lago Pehoé
Enjoy a boxed lunch with views of the vividly turquoise lake.
A strenuous full-day trek to the park's most famous viewpoint.
- Early start
Depart Puerto Natales to reach the park entrance early.
- Begin hike
Start the steep ascent from the Welcome Center area.
- Base de las Torres
Arrive at the glacial lagoon below the three granite towers.
- Descent
Hike back down to the starting point to catch your return bus.
Practical rules and packing
You must not stray from designated hiking paths. This prevents soil erosion. All garbage must be carried out of the park. You cannot fly drones anywhere inside the park boundaries.
Weather changes rapidly. Bring a windproof and waterproof hardshell jacket. Wear broken-in waterproof hiking boots. Use trekking poles for steep descents and high winds. Check our Packing List for gear details.
Easiest way to do it
Full Day Tour to Torres del Paine National Park
9 h 5.0 (550)
- shared transportation
- Civil liability insurance (transport)
- Snack on board (water, nuts)
- Bilingual guide Spanish / English
From$99per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How do I get to Torres del Paine National Park?
Regular shuttle buses run from Puerto Natales to park entrances like Laguna Amarga. The trip takes 2 to 3 hours. You can also drive via Route 9.
What should I pack for Torres del Paine?
Pack layers, avoiding cotton. Bring waterproof hiking boots, a Gore-Tex jacket, merino wool socks, and a comfortable daypack with a rain cover. Sunscreen and polarized sunglasses are essential for high UV exposure.
Is altitude sickness a problem in Torres del Paine?
No. The highest point on the trails is the John Gardner Pass at 1,241 meters (4,071 feet). This is well below the elevation where altitude sickness typically occurs.