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| Introduction Chile the trek Argentina Advice General Information slideshow (plug-in!) |
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 Parque Nacional Torres del Paine was created in 1959 by the Chilean Government to protect it originally from sheep and cattle overgrazing and in 1978 it was declared part of World Biosphere System by UNESCO. The park, rising out of the barren steppes, is of astounding beauty: deep lakes are fed by raging rivers cut steeply into lateral valleys, dominated by towering peaks, mythical to mountaineers and trekkers alike. The magnificent Cuernos del Paine and the three granite pillars that have given the park its name are a powerful testament to the last ice age, whilst the ever faster receding glaciers are a poignant reminder of how fragile our ecosystem is. Conservation efforts over the years have brought their rewards: the guanaco, once a dying breed, now roam in abundance and ñandú and flamingos can be easily observed, too. The trekking opportunities here are in many respects unparalleled. The world famous Paine circuit offers a fabulous insight into this area, and those who are lucky enough to have more time can explore further still. Parque Nacional Torres del Paine will not disappoint. |
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| The magnificent Cuernos del Paine and Lago Pehoe |
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| Getting there The starting point for the Parque Nacional Torres del Paine is Puerto Natales. From Puerto Natales various bus operators offer open-ended return tickets to the park, almost 120km away. Buses depart at around 7 am and take over 4 hours to reach the park. The main entrance is Guardería & Rifugio Laguna Amarga, at the northern end of the park; all tourists are brought here and they must purchase a park permit and register before entering. Buses then continue to the Sede Administrativa Lago del Toro, from where most depart in the early afternoon for the return trip to Puerto Natales. |
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| The Cuernos del Paine illuminated briefly |
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| Accommodation There are various hotels within the park, but most trekkers opt either for the Refugios, which cost little in comparison, or the campsites. The main campsites are Camping Pehoè, Camping Rìo Serrano, Camping Laguna Azul and Camping Las Torres. Other smaller campsites and Rifugios (in various states of disrepair) are situated along the trekking routes. Supplies There are no supply shops within the park. Bring all food from Puerto Natales. |
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