Torres del Paine National Park Tours from Puerto Natales

The fishing port-turned-adventure capital of Puerto Natales serves as the gateway to Torres del Paine National Park and as a jumping-off point for numerous adventures. Whether you plan to visit for a day or hike for a week, here is a rundown of tour options from this Patagonian outpost.

Full-Day Tours

Those pressed for time are in luck; it’s possible to experience some of the national park’s most iconic sites in as little as one day. Get an early start for a small-group hike to the base of the jagged Paine Towers, or for something more relaxed, opt for a tour of the park’s highlights, including Sofia Lagoon, Ballena Hill, Porteño Lake, Grey Glacier and the three peaks that give the park its name. Day hikes range from beginner to advanced, with the chance to tackle the slopes of Mount Almirante Nieto or soak up the views from Valle del Ascencio.

Multi-Day Tours

It’s hard to get a sense of the true grandeur of this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve without spending a few days exploring. Guided multi-day excursions into the park take visitors further off the beaten track to camp on the shores of the Serrano River, take a boat ride past Grey Glacier, and trek to some of the park’s most spectacular areas, including the base of Torres del Paine, Los Cuernos, and French Valley. Navigating the vast park with a guide ensures you won’t get lost.

Things to Know

• Puerto Natales is located in southern Chile, about three hours by bus from Punta Arenas (nearest major airport) and two hours to the park entrance.
• Day tours to the park can last upwards of 12 hours.
• Remember to wear sturdy hiking shoes and dress in warm layers, even in summer.
• Most tours include entrance fees and roundtrip transportation from your Puerto Natales Hotel; some also include lunch.