
moderate
12–16 hours
Suitable for travelers with a basic level of fitness; ability to do short walks (20–90 minutes) on uneven terrain.
A long, expertly guided sweep through Torres del Paine’s headline scenery: Grey Glacier, Pehoé Lake and the Milodón cave, all in one full day from Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales. Expect early starts, short hikes, and dramatic viewpoints with local commentary.
You step out before dawn into a Patagonian wind that already has plans for your hat. Headlights cut through low cloud as the minivan threads the gravel toward the pampa; within an hour the flat, bleached grasses open into a horizon of serrated granite and blue water. By midmorning the Paine Massif has pulled into view — towers and horns that seem to challenge the sky — while the guide points out glaciers and guanaco bands like punctuation on the plain.

Patagonian weather changes fast — pack a breathable base layer, insulating mid-layer and waterproof outer shell.
Restaurants in the park are limited; carry a meal to eat at Pehoé campsite or viewpoint to save time and enjoy the scenery.
Trails include pebbled beaches and muddy sections after rain — wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip.
Cell coverage is patchy inside the park; save maps and emergency contacts to your phone before departure.
The park preserves landscapes long inhabited by Tehuelche peoples and later transformed by sheep farming; Torres del Paine was designated a national park in the mid-20th century.
Stay on marked trails, pack out all waste and follow guide instructions; the park balances tourism with fragile alpine and steppe ecosystems.
Wind and sudden rain are common — a good shell keeps you dry and comfortable.
Supports uneven ground on beaches, boardwalks and short trails to viewpoints.
Carry water, snacks, camera and extra layers for the full-day itinerary.
A polarizer enhances lake reflections and cuts glare on bright days.