Please note that we have regular group departures and this tour can also be done in small private groups.
Take in the Torres del Paine Park highlights as well as getting off the beaten path. Walk into the natural granite amphitheatre that is known as the French Valley, the memorable and dramatic Towers of Paine, the beautiful and unknown Up & Over hike through the heart of the park, and the largest glacier in the park, Grey Glacier. At night, relax in high quality lodges serving great food.
Group departures November to March – please ask for dates.
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive airport and/or transfer to/from hotel. Drive to see the Magellanic penguins at their colony in Ottway Sound.
After a short stop in Puerto Natales, the capital of the Ultima Esperanza region of southern Chile, we transfer to Cerro Castillo and the extremely comfortable Hosteria El Pionero. Converted from a villa built by settlers it offers comfortable accommodation and an excellent restaurant offering a variety of typical local foods and international cuisine. The fireside bar is an excellent place to enjoy a pisco sour whilst your guide gives a briefing and answers any questions about the days ahead. Ensuite accommodation.
Day 2
After breakfast, we continue on towards the towering peaks of the Torres del Paine National Park. Our route takes us around the shores of Lake Sarmiento with the towering peaks of the Paine Horns to our right. We begin our introductory hike along the shores of Laguna Verde through ancient southern beech forests towards the Sierra del Toro. After a few hours of hiking we ascend to the fabulous Mirador del Toro to enjoy the spectacular views of the peaks of Paine and the lakes and waterways that flow through the pampas below.
Lunch is taken in the valley before a visit to the Park HQ and the Visitor’s Center where we see the park maps and history. From here we are collected in our vehicle and driven a short distance to our lodge on the peaceful Serrano River.
Our home for 2 nights this cozy lodge is set away from the mountains giving a full view of the entire Paine Massif across the river. Great opportunities for fishing, walks or horseback riding. Dinner in the restaurant with fabulous views of the Paine Horns. For the early riser, this hotel is said to offer the most spectacular sunrises in Patagonia!
Day 3
After breakfast, we transfer across the pampas for the short walk to the amazing Lago Grey Beach. We walk along the shores of these grey waters and watch turquoise icebergs floating in the lake. The huge mass of white behind the icebergs is Grey Glacier, the largest in the park.
After our walk we board the new Grey 2 launch and set off into the iceberg choked lake towards the walls of this spectacular glacier. The short boat trip gives us up close and personal views of this spectacle as well as stunning views of Paine Grande and surrounding mountains.
We return to the dock and there is a choice - hike up to a stunning viewpoint of the entire western side of the park with your guide, or to take our van back to the Serrano river lodge. Those returning to the river can enjoy a leisurely afternoon walking around the hills, or optional fishing or horseback riding.
Day 4
Today we rise early, pack our lunches, and prepare for our ‘up and over’ route across the heart of the park. This is a beautiful walk that sees very few hikers. We hike through verdant green valleys and southern beech forests passing turquoise lakes and crossing hills dotted with eerie windswept trees. With luck we will see magnificent condors hovering high above mountain peaks whilst down on the plains, while herds of guanaco scatter as we approach.
The route today crosses amazing scenery dominated by the French Valley, Paine Horns and eventually the Towers after which the park is named.
Because of the length of the trail, we hop in the van for the last section taking us to the beautifully situated and comfortable Estancia La Tercera. Country-style accommodation in pretty guest house with all the comforts of home.
Day 5
After breakfast and a short drive, we begin our most challenging hike to the base of the Towers themselves. A steep climb crossing mountain trails, rivers and valleys and finally a clamber up glacial moraine, the rewards today are truly spectacular. Lunch (for those who make it to the top) can be enjoyed in the shadow of these enormous granite peaks whilst watching the icebergs drift across a glacial pool of water.
Tonight we’re back at the estancia where a roaring fire, hot bath and home cooked Chilean food awaits us.
Day 6
After breakfast, we transfer out of the park and back to the airport in Punta Arenas in time for afternoon flights. Time permitting we make a short stop in Puerto Natales - an opportunity to purchase any souvenirs/books/postcards etc.
For those wanting to camp, try our trek around the entire Paine massif on our Paine Circuit or, to reach the really remote areas, our Paine W trek and kayak trip.
Check our group and tailor made options. And you can always contact the office with questions or for advice.
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