Patagonia Full Circuit Trek — Torres del Paine 'O' Trek Complete Guide
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
8–10 days
Fitness Level
Expect sustained aerobic effort: regular hikers who train with 4–6 hour hikes and hill repeats will fare best.
Overview
Walk the full ‘O’ of Torres del Paine: 80 miles of granite towers, glacier blue lakes and high passes. This guided weeklong circuit balances big days with remote camps and front‑row views of Grey Glacier and the Towers.
Patagonia Full Circuit Trek — Torres del Paine 'O' Trek Complete Guide
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You crest John Gardner Pass and the wind strips the last warmth from your fingers; below, Grey Glacier sprawls like an argent river, a slow-moving force that dares you to measure its size with your eyes. That first breath of cold, mineral air is the moment the circuit stops being a map and becomes a rhythm: up over ridgelines, down into lenga forests, across braided glacial rivers that push at your boots.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Start early each day
Afternoon Patagonian winds strengthen fast; aim to hit high passes and viewpoints by mid‑day to avoid gusty descents.
Layer for wind, not just cold
A breathable base, insulating midlayer, and a waterproof breathable shell are more useful than a heavy parka.
Use trekking poles
Poles reduce knee strain on long descents and help stabilize river crossings on muddy trails.
Filter water from streams
Natural water sources are plentiful but treat or filter water to avoid GI issues on multi‑day legs.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Guanaco
- Andean condor
History
Torres del Paine National Park was established in 1959 and preserves landscapes long used by indigenous Kawésqar and Tehuelche groups and later by Patagonian ranchers.
Conservation
Park capacity and permit systems help limit impact; follow Leave No Trace, avoid shortcutting trails, and pack out all waste to protect fragile vegetation and waterways.
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Adventure Hotspots in Puerto Natales
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof hardshell jacket
Windproof, breathable protection is essential against Patagonian gales.
60 L backpack with rain cover
Holds 7 nights of camping kit while remaining comfortable for long days.
Lightweight sleeping bag (to ~-5°C)
Keeps you warm in variable overnight temperatures at camps from Paine Grande to Grey.
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Trekking poles
Stabilize river crossings and reduce joint stress on long descents.