Hike to Base Las Torres: A Full-Day Trek to the Heart of Torres del Paine
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
10–12 hours
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular fitness and hiking endurance; you should be comfortable with long days, uphill scrambling and uneven terrain.
Overview
A long, demanding day-hike that leads to the iconic granite faces of the Torres. This full-day trek from Puerto Natales covers roughly 19 km with a steep moraine ascent to a lagoon-front viewpoint where the three towers dominate the sky.
Hike to Base Las Torres: A Full-Day Trek to the Heart of Torres del Paine
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The day begins before dawn in Puerto Natales, a pale town clinging to the edge of the Patagonian steppe. You climb into a shuttle as skylight brushes the flatlands; the road narrows, and the massif of Torres del Paine grows out of the horizon like a weathered fortress. By the time you reach the trailhead, the wind has a personality—sharp, impatient, honest—and the trail demands attention.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Start early
Pick-up from Puerto Natales is usually between 7:00–7:30 a.m.; an early start avoids crowds and improves weather windows.
Dress in layers
Wind and sun alternate rapidly—pack a breathable base layer, insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof outer shell.
Footwear and poles
Sturdy, broken-in waterproof boots and trekking poles reduce fatigue and protect knees on the steep descent.
Hydrate and fuel
Carry 2–3 liters of water and extra snacks even if a box lunch is provided—cold, windy conditions increase caloric needs.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Guanaco
- Andean condor
History
Torres del Paine was designated a national park in 1959; the granite towers were exposed and sculpted by repeated glaciations that shaped the region’s striking relief.
Conservation
Heavy foot traffic and fragile alpine vegetation demand strict leave-no-trace practices; pay entrance fees and stick to established trails to minimize impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Puerto Natales
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof hiking boots
Support and grip for rocky moraine and wet sections.
Waterproof shell jacket
Protects against wind-driven rain and rapid temperature changes.
Trekking poles
Stabilize balance on the final ascent and reduce impact on the knees during descent.
3 liters of water and high-energy snacks
Sustains energy and hydration across a long, exposed day-hike.