Torres del Paine National Park, Chile (Towers of the Paine)
Located in the South of the Chilean Andes, the Torres del Paine National Park occupies 2,400 km2 of pristine valleys, crumbling glaciers and epic mountain peaks. The park is open year round, however the summer months of December - March make for manageable conditions and breathtakingly clear views. This is not to say that the elements offer comfortable hiking conditions during this time. Be prepared for the likes of torrential rains and gale force winds.
The ‘W Trek’ (named due to it’s topographical shape) is generally a four day hike with the option of an additional day to walk into the park itself. Our Patagonian posse, consisting of two Australians and two Germans, opted to take advantage of the additional day. This allowed us to acclimatise, break in our gear and take advantage of the surreal panoramic views of a place regarded as ‘the jewel of the Andes’. Refugio’s and campartmento’s can be found at convenient spots along the general route, with roughly half of campsites being free of charge. I highly recommend that you bring a compact stove, cooking pots and plenty of high carb foods to keep your energy levels up. Note that five consecutive nights of tuna pasta and orange cordial is not always a bad thing. Also note that the water you are drinking is fresh from glaciers and mountain ranges, therefore it is not only drinkable, but some of the best, most untainted water in the world.
Days 2, 3 and 4 are tough, lengthy days where eight hours of walking becomes almost second nature. The blisters and sweat drenched clothes become all but forgotten when you finally reach the likes of Glacier Grey and Mirador Britanico. Glacier Grey offers an incredible opportunity to relax and watch as large portions of ice break off the glacier and crash into the frozen waters of Lago Grey. Mirador Britanico is one of the top spots to marvel at the surrounding mountain ranges of the park.
Day 5 is arguably the most enjoyable day. Wake up early and make the 45 minute walk through pitch black to experience the Torres as the sun comes up. If you’re lucky you’ll witness the mountains glow red as the morning sun reflects off the tower like structures. It’s a rare occurrence, that I unfortunately didn’t get to see. So if you’re lucky enough to catch a glimpse of it, make sure that you send me a photo. Beware that the wind at the Base de Las Torres can be overpoweringly strong. We witnessed one mans sleeping bag get blown out of his arms and in to the near by lake on day one of his hike. A mistake that would have lead to a few frozen nights.
The Torres del Paine National Park is full of incredible scenery and a diverse range of hikes for all skill levels. It is also something that can be experienced on a relatively limited budget. Lastly, keep your eye out for an Andean Puma. Very few people will ever spot one, but National Geographic has taught me that they are a sight to behold.
Total distance: 88km Approx
Days: 4-6
Itinerary
Day 1: Administración - Campamento Paine Grande / 5hrs / 17km
Day 2: Campamento Paine Grande - Refugio Grey - Campamento Paine Grande / 8hrs / 24km
Day 3: Campamento Paine Grande - Mirador Britanico - Campamento Los Cuernos / 9hrs / 22km
Day 4: Campamento Los Cuernos - Campamento Torres / 7hrs / 15km
Day 5: Campamento Torres - Base de Las Torres - Hotel Las Torres / 5hrs / 12km
