Hike to the Base of the Paine Towers: Full-Day Trek from Puerto Natales
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
11 hours
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular fitness and leg strength; comfortable with long ascents and uneven terrain.
Overview
This full-day trek from Puerto Natales climbs the Ascencio Valley to the moraine viewpoint at the Base of the Paine Towers—an 18–20 km round trip with steep moraine scrambling and unforgettable granite spires. Small groups and expert guides make it a focused, accessible way to experience Torres del Paine in a single day.
Hike to the Base of the Paine Towers: Full-Day Trek from Puerto Natales
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Dawn arrives cold and clear as the van pulls out of Puerto Natales, headlights cutting across low clouds over the Patagonian steppe. Conversation is quiet; the guide points out the first jagged silhouettes of the Paine Massif through the windshield. By mid-morning the road drops into the Ascencio Valley and the trailhead at Reserva Cerro Paine takes over—your boots on the same path that has drawn climbers and trekkers for decades.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Pace to the moraine
Start conservatively and maintain a steady rhythm—the final scramble is short but steep and best approached with energy in reserve.
Bring 2–3 liters of water
There are streams, but filtering takes time; hydrate early and sip regularly to avoid fatigue on the ascent.
Wear supporting boots
Expect scree and large boulders on the moraine; ankle-supporting, waterproof hiking boots reduce slip and ankle injuries.
Book park entry ahead
The national park requires an entrance fee and reservations in high season—confirm your ticket before departure to avoid delays.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Andean condor
- Guanaco
History
Torres del Paine was established as a national park in 1959; its striking granite towers were exposed by glacial retreat over the last several millennia.
Conservation
Park management emphasizes staying on trails, packing out waste, and limiting group sizes to reduce erosion and protect fragile alpine vegetation.
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Adventure Hotspots in Puerto Natales
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof hiking boots
Support and grip for rocky moraine sections and wet trail conditions.
Trekking poles
Help with balance on switchbacks and reduce strain on knees during descent.
Layered insulating jacket
Windproof, insulated layer for sudden temperature drops near the viewpoint.
fall specific
Daypack with 2–3L water
Carry fluids, snacks, sunscreen and a small first-aid kit for the full-day outing.
summer specific