Torres del Paine Highlights Hiking Tour from Puerto Natales
4.3 / 5 · 4 traveler reviews
Discover the lesser-known wonders of Patagonia with this one-day trekking adventure in Torres del Paine National Park. Perfect for active travelers short on time, this tour takes you on three scenic hikes—each 2 to 3 hours long—off the classic W Trek circuit. Between trails, a comfortable minibus picks you up and takes you to the next destination, maximizing your time and energy. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll explore trails rich in natural beauty and cultural history, including ancient cave paintings and panoramic viewpoints like the Cuernos del Paine and the Condor Lookout. Take in unforgettable views of the Paine Massif, the French Valley, and the turquoise waters of Lake Pehoé. With round-trip transportation from Puerto Natales and a flexible itinerary tailored to the group and season, this is a must-do experience for anyone looking to make the most of their time in Torres del Paine.
Your experience
Stop 1
Your journey kicks off bright and early, with your guide picking you up from your accommodation in Puerto Natales between 6:30 and 7:00 AM. You'll set off northbound on Route 9, taking in the stunning Patagonian landscapes during a picturesque two-hour drive toward Torres del Paine National Park. The adventure officially begins as you enter the park through the Laguna Amarga entrance, continuing on to the Sarmiento Gate—your starting point for the first hike of the day. This trail winds through awe-inspiring terrain that once captivated the imagination of early explorers like Lady Florence Dixie, who described the untouched beauty of these wild lands over a century ago.
Stop 2
Once you've entered Torres del Paine National Park through the Laguna Amarga Gate and completed the check-in process, you'll head toward the Sarmiento Gate area to begin your first hike: the Aonikenk Trail. This gentle, low-difficulty trek takes around 2 hours and guides you across the vast Patagonian steppe, where you'll be treated to panoramic views of the Paine Massif and nearby lakes. Surrounded by the raw silence and expansive beauty of the landscape, it’s a peaceful and inspiring way to begin your day of discovery. Trail: From Sarmiento Lake Entrance to Laguna Amarga Entrance Distance: 4.13 miles (6.64 km) Elevation gain: 1,152 ft (351 m) Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Stop 3
This trail is teeming with wildlife, offering plenty of opportunities for you and your guide to observe and learn about the local fauna. One of the highlights along the way is a visit to ancient cave paintings—remarkable works of art created over 10,000 years ago by the region’s earliest inhabitants. After exploring this fascinating site, you'll continue on to the Laguna Amarga entrance, where the next chapter of your adventure begins.
Stop 4
At the conclusion of the hike, a minibus will be ready for you at the Laguna Amarga Gate to take you onward to the Pudeto area. There, you’ll have the chance to see the stunning Salto Grande Waterfall, a spectacular 12-meter cascade linking Lake Nordenskjöld and Lake Pehoé. From this point forward, your guide will customize the itinerary based on the group’s interests, the day’s weather, and the season to ensure the best possible experience.
Stop 5
Starting from Salto Grande, you’ll embark on a gentle hike of approximately 2 hours round-trip through the classic Patagonian steppe. Along the way, you’ll pass by lagoons teeming with diverse bird species until you reach the Cuernos Viewpoint, situated on the edge of Lake Nordenskjöld. Here, you’ll be rewarded with one of the park’s most breathtaking panoramas, featuring the striking Cuernos del Paine as the focal point. After soaking in the views, you’ll retrace your steps back to the trailhead, where the minibus will be waiting to pick you up. Trail: Salto Grande to Cuernos Viewpoint (round trip) Distance: 4.14 miles (6.66 km) Elevation gain: 873 ft (266 m) Duration: About 2 hours and 30 minutes
Stop 6
Afterwards, you’ll head to Camping Pehoé, where you can take a well-earned rest and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the glacial lake. Keep in mind that meals are not included in the tour, but you’ll have the option to buy food at the campground (depending on availability) or bring your own packed lunch from Puerto Natales.
Stop 7
To conclude the day, you’ll set out on a final 2-hour round-trip hike to the breathtaking Condor Viewpoint, located near the Pehoé area. The trail involves a moderate climb, reaching an elevation of 350 meters (1,148 feet), where you’ll be greeted by one of the park’s most iconic panoramas: Paine Grande, the French Valley, and the Cuernos del Paine, with Lake Pehoé sprawled below. Along the way, you’ll pass through typical Patagonian steppe vegetation, have chances to spot native birds, and, if luck is on your side, see the majestic Andean condor (Vultur gryphus) soaring overhead. This spot is ideal for capturing incredible photos and wrapping up your day in Torres del Paine with an unforgettable view. Trail: Condor Viewpoint (round trip) Distance: 1.49 miles (2.4 km) Elevation gain: 1,148 ft (350 m) Duration: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes
Stop 8
You’ll board the minibus alongside your guide and begin the approximately two-hour journey back to Puerto Natales. You can expect to arrive at your accommodation between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM.
What’s included
- First Aid Kit
- Transport
- Trekking Poles
- Certified bilingual local guide
Not included
- Lunch (includes lunchbox in private service)
- Entrance fees
Before you go
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- It is mandatory to wear the following equipment: Mountain footwear; Headlamp and gaiters (only during the winter season, available for rent in different stores in Puerto Natales), food and water. In case of showing up without the proper equipment, for safety reasons, the guide will not allow you to take the tour and no refunds will be made.
- Suitable for people over 16 years old.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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