Experience one of the most beautiful and intense treks on the planet: the Paine Circuit!

Circle the immense Paine Massif in Torres del Paine national park for 9 days of epic views and endurance, all led by our expert guides who help escort you on this unbelievable adventure through the heart of this vast and untamed wilderness.

Please Note: This is a camping/trekking expedition, which means you’ll be camping every night of the trip. We do offer an optional upgrade to our EcoCamp Domes for the last two nights of the program. The upgrade is dependent on our availability.

Itinerary

Day 1: The Patagonian Adventure Starts

Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

You'll be picked up from your hotel in Puerto Natales (between 10:00 - 11:00 am) and driven to EcoCamp Patagonia, in Torres del Paine National Park. Upon arrival (At 1:00 pm approx.), we'll settle in for lunch and some relaxation time. During this period, your guide will go over the details of what promises to be an unforgettable adventure.

In the afternoon, we'll begin our hike to Camp Serón, where we'll spend our first night. Thanks to the long daylight hours in the summer months, you'll have plenty of light to take in the stunning views of the Patagonian steppe, complete with its roaming guanacos and the majestic backdrop of snow-capped mountains.

Hiking Distance: 13 km./8 mi.
Hiking Time: 4 hrs.
Max. Altitude: 392m./1286 ft.
Elevation gain: 386 m./1266 ft.

Overnight Camping in Serón area.

Day 2: Camp Seron to Camp Dickson

 Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

The day kicks off at Camp Serón, where we'll set out on our hike towards Dickson Lake. Our path takes us north along the eastern shore of the Paine River. Along the way, we'll pause at a natural vantage point to soak in the breathtaking panoramic views of Paine Lake, before descending and pressing westward across the open plains toward Refugio Dickson. Our campsite, nestled in the Dickson Valley, is surrounded by majestic snow-capped mountains and the clear waters of Lake Dickson. From here, you can catch glimpses of the awe-inspiring Dickson Glacier and parts of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field in the distance. We'll spend the night at this picturesque location, where you'll be treated to a hearty dinner and the comfort of a hot shower.

Hiking Distance: 18.7 km./20.5 mi.
Hiking Time: 5.5 hrs.
Max. Altitude: 382 m./1255 ft.
Elevation gain: 622 m./2040 ft.

Overnight Camping in Dickson area.

Day 3: Camp Dickson to Camp Perros

Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Hiking Distance: 12.9 km./8.1 mi.
Hiking Time: 5 hrs.
Max. Altitude: 584 m./1916 ft.
Elevation gain: 373 m. / 1224 ft.

Overnight Camping in Los Perros area.

Day 4: Camp Perros to Camp Grey through John Gardner Pass

This day marks our ascent to the Circuit’s highest point, the John Gardner pass, a must-do for any serious trekker. From an altitude of around 1300 mts (4000 ft), we will be able to feast our eyes on an awe-inspiring view of the Grey Glacier, an enormous fractured mass of ice which towers over the valley below. The John Gardner pass is one of the most famous sectors of Torres del Paine and a must-do for any serious trekker. We will then continue south along forested slopes with more beautiful views of the Grey Glacier  - one of the most legendary glaciers of the southern Patagonian ice field - before reaching Grey Campground on the shores of Lake Grey.

Hiking Distance: 17.3km./10.7 mi.
Hiking Time: 12 hrs.
Max. Altitude: 1364 m./4475 ft.
Elevation gain: 984 m./3228 ft.

Overnight Camping in Grey area.

Day 5: Camp Grey to Pehoe Lake

Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

During the morning, we will take some time to rest, replenish and revel in the beautiful surroundings of Lake Grey. After this, it is time to make our way along the eastern side of the Lake through clearings of gorgeous Calafate bushes. The view over the lake, with its numerous giant icebergs drifting across the waters, is a true wonder to behold. The trail after this point becomes flatter as we descend through a shallow dry valley towards the turquoise waters of Lake Pehoe, where we will set-up camp and rest for the night.

Hiking Distance: 11 km./6.8 mi.
Hiking Time: 5 hrs.
Max. Altitude: 302 m./990 ft.
Elevation gain: 243 m./797 ft.

Overnight Camping in Lodge Paine Grande area.

Day 6: French Valley

Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

After breakfast at Lake Pehoe, we will begin the challenging trek along a steep trail leading to the very heart of the Paine Massif in the French Valley, - How far we go depends on our group's trekking rhythm. A swifter walk will lead us to the hanging bridge over the French River, located at the foot of the south-east face of the Massif, where we will be treated to fantastic views of the valley. We will then continue to ascend towards the upper section of the valley to marvel at the extensive mass of the valley's geological formations: Hoja (Blade), Máscara (Mask), Espada (Sword), Catedral (Cathedral), Aleta de Tiburón (Shark’s Fin) and the magnificent Fortaleza (Fortress). After our upward trek, we will pause for a picnic and relax for a while. The day's trek will end as we descend through an undulating terrain of mixed grassland and light forest to Camp Frances.

Please note: An optional trek to Mirador Britanico is also available.

Hiking Distance: 20 km./12,4 mi. (Including Británico Lookout).
Hiking Time: 8 hrs.
Max. Altitude: 800 m./2624 ft.
Elevation gain: 753 m./2470 ft.

Overnight Camping in Francés or Los Cuernos area.

Day 7: Los Cuernos

Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Once we have finished breakfast, we will begin the day's trek to Camp Torre Central along the Cuernos trail, which will take us along the beautiful Lake Nordenskjold. Today's walk is less strenuous yet richer in the diversity of terrain that we will cover. It will, therefore, be the perfect opportunity to take in the park’s charming flora and fauna and learn more about the vast variety of species along the way. We will pause throughout the walk-in and eat our box lunch, rest our legs, and admire the stunning surroundings. The trek ends as we arrive at Camp Torre Central where we will enjoy a hearty meal and prepare for tomorrow's big challenge.

Hiking Distance: 16 km./9,94 mi.
Hiking Time: 7 hrs.
Max. Altitude: 247 m./810 ft.
Elevation gain: 181 m./594 ft.

Overnight camping in Las Torres area (Optional: Upgrade to EcoCamp Domes).

Day 8: Trek to the Tower's Base

Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

The goal of our penultimate day of the Paine Circuit is to complete the most famous trekking trail in Torres del Paine National Park! We will walk from the campsite towards Hotel Las Torres before ascending up Ascencio Valley on the Tower's eastern face. Mountain ridges, beech forests and small rivers line the scenic walk towards the valley. Our big challenge comes in the form of the steep moraine, a huge mass of boulders which will lead us to that iconic base-view of the Towers, the three gigantic granite monoliths that are the remains of a great cirque sheared away by glacial ice. After a tough uphill climb, the Towers eventually come into full view, rising majestically before us with the glacial lake visible below. Is there a better place in the world to have lunch? After feasting on the view (and our picnic), we backtrack along the same trail through Ascencio Valley and return to Camp Torre Central for a well-deserved dinner.

Hiking Distance: 22 km./13.6 mi.
Hiking Time: 10 hrs.
Max. Altitude: 914 m./3000 ft.
Elevation gain: 796 m./2611 ft.

Overnight camping in Las Torres area (Optional: Upgrade to EcoCamp Domes).

Day 9: Adiós Torres del Paine

Punta Arenas, Chile

We will board an early morning vehicle, sit back, relax and enjoy the scenic ride back to Puerto Natales or Punta Arenas in time to catch an evening flight onwards. Alternatively, transportation to El Calafate can also be organised.

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Accommodation

Tents & campsites (nights 1-8)

Typical mountain tents are used with enough room for 2 people overnight in comfortable conditions. We provide all the camping gear. But you should bring your own mat and sleeping bag. Our team will set up the tents in the camping site. On nights 4, 5, 6, 7 & 8 at Grey, Pehoe, Francés and Las Torres you enjoy dinner and breakfast in the refugios. On nights 1, 2 and 3 at Serón, Dickson and Perros there will be a comfortable dining tent for dinners and breakfasts. Additionally, the camping sites along the trek will have mountain bathroom facilities in good condition.

Day 1: Camping Serón

Day 2: Camping Dickson.

Day 3: Camping Perros.

Day 4: Camping Grey.

Day 5: Camping Paine Grande.

Day 6: Camping Los Cuernos 

Day 7 and 8: Camping Torre Central.

On nights  7 and 8, all Circuit hikers are welcome to attend evening activities in EcoCamp's bar and Yoga Dome before returning to their campsite to sleep!

Optional upgrade to EcoCamp Domes on nights 7 and 8.

There is an option to upgrade to EcoCamp Domes on the nights you will stay at Camping Central, please ask your Travel Experience Designer for more information, rates & availability.

EcoCamp Patagonia

Ecocamp Patagonia is located in the heart of Torres del Paine National Park in Chile with views of the majestic granite Paine Towers. It was the first geodesic dome hotel in the world, offering an upscale camp at the domes inspired by the region’s ancient nomadic inhabitants. 

EcoCamp Patagonia Suite Dome
(Heating & Private bathroom, 28m²/300ft²)

Suite domes were designed to further our goal of providing comfort in a natural setting with minimal environmental impact, and also maintain the hotel’s familiar and cozy vibe. The domes have comfortable double or twin beds, a wood stove and a private bathroom with a state-of-the-art composting toilet.

EcoCamp Patagonia Suite Dome Loft
(2 floors, Heating & Private bathroom, 37m²/398ft²)

Suite dome lofts are two-storey domes which fit up to four people and have comfortable double or twin beds both up and downstairs. These domes, ideal for families or groups of friends, come with a wood stove, a private terrace and a private bathroom with a state-of-the-art composting toilet.

EcoCamp Patagonia Superior Dome
(Heating & Private bathroom, 23m²/250ft²)

Spacious, comfortable and equipped with private bathrooms, Superior Domes are the optimum choice for trekkers wanting that bit more space and comfort at the end of a long day’s walk. Each Superior Dome has comfortable queen-size or twin beds, a propane heater, skylight windows and a private bathroom with a sophisticated composting toilet.

EcoCamp Patagonia Standard Dome
(Shared bathroom, 10m²/108ft²)

EcoCamp Standard domes were the world's first lodge accommodation in geodesic shape. They are resistant to the strong Patagonian winds and come equipped with two single beds (doubles on request), cozy fleece blankets, and feather quilts. There are also windows in the ceiling for stargazing. Standard domes include shared bathrooms that are large, comfortable, and gender-divided.

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Included

• All ground transport as indicated in the itinerary.
• 8 nights camping* including all equipment EXCEPT a mat and sleeping bag.
• Park entrance fees for Torres del Paine National Park.
• One expert English speaking guide.
• Porter service for this trip (see below).

Meals:

• Day 1: Lunch, Dinner.
• Day 2: Breakfast, Box Lunch, Dinner.
• Day 3: Breakfast, Box Lunch, Dinner.
• Day 4: Breakfast, Box Lunch, Dinner.
• Day 5: Breakfast, Box Lunch, Dinner.
• Day 6: Breakfast, Box Lunch, Dinner.
• Day 7: Breakfast, Box Lunch, Dinner.
• Day 8: Breakfast, Box Lunch, Dinner.
• Day 9: Breakfast, Box Lunch.
  
  

Not included

• Flight tickets.
• Insurance (appropriate insurance is mandatory for this trip).
• Voluntary tipping to guides and staff.
• Cash to buy optional extras such as drinks, snacks or souvenirs in Torres del Paine National Park Personal items.
• Mat and sleeping bag.

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Departures

Regular Departures are available every Wednesday from November to March.

Departures require a minimum of 2 participants. If a given departure isn't available, you will be put on a waiting list.

Do you want a private departure for this trip? We can do it, just send us an email.

Optional for this trip

Upgrades to EcoCamp Patagonia*

• 2 nights upgrade to an EcoCamp Standard, Superior or Suite Dome on a double basis (days 7 and 8).
• Subject to availability. To be confirmed by your Travel Experience Designer.
• EcoCamp dome upgrades are not available during peak season (From December 15 to January 14).

Kayaking around the Grey Glacier on Day 5

• Duration: 2.5 hours departing at 9 AM.
• Available from November to March.
• Minimum: 3 passengers.
• Maximum: 12 passengers.
• Includes: Neoprene suit, waterproof jacket and boots, poogies (kayak gloves), skirt and life-jacket.
• Min. age: 15 years old / Max. age: 65 years old.
  
  

Starting / finishing point

The trip starts on Wednesday morning and finishes on Thursday. You will need to arrive the afternoon before the first day and sleep in Puerto Natales. If your arrival the day before matches with our regular pick-up in Punta Arenas, you can join the group; this option will also be available with our regular pick-up at Puerto Natales Airport or if you are coming from El Calafate to Puerto Natales Bus Station. Our drop-off service is to Punta Arenas, Puerto Natales, or El Calafate.  Please visit our Weekly Transfer Board for details of pick-up and drop-off times.

Physical demand

This is the right trip for energetic people who like to be active, have a spirit of adventure, and have a positive attitude. During this trek, you will walk a total of 134 km/83 mi. On the map, in the itinerary section, click on the walking person icon for daily information.

To enjoy this trek, you must be in shape before you arrive. It is not wise to regard this trek as a means of getting into shape or losing excess weight. Start a program of conditioning well before departure.

Group size & guiding staff

• 8 travelers is the most typical group size, plus guiding staff.
• Maximum 12 clients.
• Guide to passenger ratio: 1:6.
  
  

Children

• Those 15 years of age or older are considered adults and are welcome.
• Children aged between 12 and 14 might be accepted into this program if their legal guardian sends a formal letter stating that their child is prepared for such an intense trekking trip and authorizes the hiring of a private guide in case the child does not perform well during the trek.
• Children under 12 years of age cannot participate in this trip.
• This trip does not offer a special discount for children.
  
  

Transport

In Torres del Paine and throughout Patagonia, transportation is in minivans that normally seat 8 to 14 people. Pick-up/drop-off times, as shown on the Weekly Transfer Board, are approximate and will be confirmed by our local operations team closer to departure. An exclusive toll-free emergency number will be available for anyone needing additional support while in Chile.

Weather

The vast unbroken stretch of ocean to the west and south of the South American continent leaves the Patagonian Andes very exposed to the winds that circle the Antarctic landmass, making the weather hard to predict. Fine weather may deteriorate almost without warning; even in summer (December to March), you should come prepared to find strong cold winds (up to 130 km/hr) and rainfall. Summer’s average temperature is 11ºC (52ºF), ranging between 2 to 24ºC (35 to 75ºF).

What you need to bring

Once you have made your booking, we will send you a complete pre-trip info brochure that details the things you need to bring.

Here are some of the general items we recommend:

• Cash to buy extra drinks, snacks or souvenirs in Torres del Paine National Park.
• Mat and sleeping bag.
• A day backpack (20-30lt).
• Backpack or duffel bag (70 liters).
• Waterproof or water-resistant trekking boots.
• Gaiters (Long hiking gaiters).
• Waterproof parka and pants.
• Inner layers.
• 3 changes of clothes.
• Sun hat.
• Sunscreen.
• Hiking socks.
• Sandals (for the hikes or after them).
• Bathing suit.
• Sunglasses.
• Towel.
• Trekking Poles.
• Long underwear (we do not recommend wool).
• Extra change of socks.
• Flashlight/headlamp.
• Extra insulating layer.
  
  

Porter service and luggage handling

Who are the porters?

The porters are people who will help us with the logistics of transporting luggage during our trip. They will be in charge of carrying items such as: tents, sleeping bags, mats/insulators and dry bags*. They will transport these items from Ecocamp or the camps occupied during the trek, to our next stops, making sure to arrive on time so that we can find these items at our disposal once we arrive at the camps/refugios.

*Dry bags: Dry bags, as their name indicates, are waterproof bags in which we can store the items that we will not need during the walks and keep them dry and insulated while the porters transport them. The dry bag limit (regulated based on the weight that is healthy for porters to carry) is 15 Lt. and 5 Kg/11 Lb. each (in case there is more than one dry bag on your trip).

These bags will be labeled with your name so that they are not confused with those of other members of your group.

Dry bag logistics for the 9 Days Circuit

The porter service for this trip is included in the trip’s price. During the trek, your belongings will be divided into three portions. One portion you will carry yourself in your daypack comprising of your lunch, water, camera, sun cream and the clothing you will layer on and off during the day. The second portion is your sleeping bag and sleeping pad (you need to bring these with you to Torres del Paine) which will be carried for you throughout the trip. The third portion is the change of clean clothes and other items you will need at night in the campsites - these will be carried for you in waterproof duffel bags as follows:

On day 1 (At EcoCamp) we will provide you with two small 15-liter dry bags. In the first bag, you will put the clothes needed for the following nights: 1 (Seron), 2 (Dickson), 3 (Los Perros), 4 (Grey) and 5 (Pehoe). In the second bag you can put clothes and any items needed for night 5 (Pehoe) and day 6 (Cuernos), before returning to Camp Torre Central on day 7 where the rest of your luggage will be waiting for you. Upon arrival to Pehoe, you will have access to both dry bags at the same time.

You are allowed to pack up to 5 kgs (11 lbs) in each dry bag.

Tips for assembling dry bags

Taking into account that you will only have access to 1 of the 2 dry bags during your trip (when your trip includes 2), we recommend the following to have optimal access to your items:

• In dry bags, store items that you will only need during the nights in refugios, for example: Change of clothes (underwear, pants, t-shirts, first layers, socks).
• Sleeping bags and insulators/mats are NOT stored in the dry bags, these will be transported separately by the porters.
• Do not store items that you will need every night such as personal hygiene items or medications; we recommend that you carry these items in your daily backpack.
• Do not store items that are too large or heavy, remember that these must be transported by the porters and have a limit of 5Kg/11Lb.
• Do not store flammable or too delicate items that could cause accidents for those transporting the dry bags.
• Avoid storing food in dry bags as it can ruin the bag and also spoil the food.

Itinerary modifications

The weather in Patagonia can make planning difficult at times. We reserve the right to change the order of the days in any itinerary at the discretion of the trip guide. The trip guide can modify, change, or eliminate part of the itinerary based on safety/weather considerations.

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