Torres del Paine Circuit Tour with 3 Reviews by World Expeditions

11 daysDuration

Small Group TourUsually 8-12 participants, maximum 18 travelers

12 peopleMaximum group size

18 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Challenging

Demands good physical fitness and stamina for more intense or extended activities.

Starts

Puerto Natales, Chile

Ends

Puerto Natales, Chile

Highlights

Hike the stunning O-Trek and circumnavigate the peaks of Torres del Paine

Experience a spectacular day cruising, and incredible scenery, to the head of the fjord in Torres del Paine

Marvel at the incomparable Towers of Paine

Take in the magnificent views of Grey Glacier

Search for wildlife and birdlife while walking though truly awe-inspiring scenery

Itinerary

Circle the legendary towers of Patagonia on the Torres del Paine Circuit, an 11-day trekking adventure showcasing Chile’s most iconic wilderness. Starting and ending in Puerto Natales, this challenging guided hike—known as the O Trek—embarks deep into the national park’s remote valleys, glaciers, and windswept high passes, including the unforgettable John Garner Pass with its panoramic Grey Glacier views. With partial porter support and established camps, trekkers enjoy the freedom of a genuine wilderness experience, carrying only essentials while logistics are handled. Due to limited permits and a short trekking season, early booking is essential. The unique selling point is the opportunity to fully circumnavigate the Paine Massif, accessing remote landscapes and vistas off-limits to most visitors. For experienced hikers seeking the ultimate Patagonian trek, this trip is a rare find.

day 1 - Arrive in Puerto Natales

Arrive into Puerto Natales* and make your own way to our group Hotel Vendaval (or similar). This evening you’ll meet your fellow trekkers for a detailed trip briefing. This is an opportunity to ask any final questions and prepare for the adventure ahead. Dinner is not included tonight, so you’re free to explore one of the town’s excellent restaurants.

Overnight: Hotel Vendaval or similar

*Please note: Puerto Natales has an airport with flights from Santiago. Alternatively, there are flights to Punta Arenas and El Calafate and a bus can be taken from there to Puerto Natales (additional cost applies). Please ask us for more details.

day 2 - Boat to Torres del Paine National Park via Balmaceda Glacier

Today we cruise to the head of the fjord to see glaciers tumbling down from the mountains, with the chance to spot seals and abundant birdlife along the way. We continue by Zodiac into Torres del Paine National Park, skirting glacial blue lakes and passing herds of guanaco and rhea as the towering peaks come into view. The Horns of Paine rise directly before us, with Paine Grande – the largest in the range – dominating the skyline. On arrival, we transfer to our campsite for the night. The scenery here is truly awe-inspiring: ice-strewn lakes, dramatic granite towers, snow-clad peaks and the vast Patagonian Ice Cap combine to create one of the world’s most remarkable trekking landscapes.

Overnight: Camp (Torres del Paine National Park)

What you carry: Day pack

Activity approx: Full day transfer by boat and vehicle, minimal walking

Please note: The boat trip is on a shared service basis and is weather dependent. If boats are unable to operate due to weather conditions, alternative transportation into Torres del Paine National Park will be arranged.