What excursions are available?
All-inclusive Excursions
Special Interest Excursions
Self-guided Excursions
External excursions (at an extra cost)
All-inclusive Excursions
1. Base of the Towers Lookout
This is one of the most famous routes in Torres del Paine, famed for its level of difficulty as well as for the stunning view that it offers, if the weather permits. The trail follows the Ascencio Valley, a natural gateway, along a route full of great lookout points.
We climb through forests of Lenga beech and Andean shrub-land before tackling the glacial moraine composed of blocks of granite that have been exposed to the harshness of the Patagonian climate. Upon reaching the Towers Lookout we will find ourselves in an awe-inspiring amphitheatre of rocky peaks and glaciers.
Full-day | Trek: 8hrs, 22km | Difficulty: High | Max elevation: 900m | Transfer round-trip: 4hrs
Base of the Towers, Torres del Paine
2. French Valley
The French Valley is one of the three main attractions of the W Circuit. It is not to be missed for those who are fit and enjoy hiking. We start at Pudeto Dock where we take a catamaran across the icy waters of Lake Pehoe to the slopes of Cerro Paine Grande.
From here it's a marvellous hike full of scenic contrasts to Italian Camp after which we continue upwards over an ancient glacial moraine and through a wooded valley to reach the French Lookout – an amazing amphitheatre surrounded by glaciers and impressive walls of granite.
Note: Catamaran costs an extra USD $70pp approx which must be paid in cash (either USD or CLP). Excursion subject to itinerary of catamaran. Available Nov 1st to Mar 31st.
Full-day | Trek: 7hrs, 19km | Difficulty: Medium/High | Max elevation: 485m | Transfer round-trip: 3hrs
The French Valley, Torres del Paine
3. Ferrier Lookout
Ferrier Lookout offers truly spectacular panoramic views of Torres del Paine. From here one can see the Paine Massif, Sierra Baguales, the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, lakes and rivers as well as the pampas of the Argentine Steppe. This adventure begins at the Grey Park Ranger Station from where we head up one of the steepest ascents on the western side of the National Park.
This trail heads into a dense forest of Pre-Andean scrub and ancient Lenga trees that paint the summer green and the autumn red. The lookout of exposed rock is a well-deserved reward for the visitor after the tough climb – the strong winds coming off the ice field will add to the experience!
Half-day | Trek: 4hrs, 6km | Difficulty: Medium/High | Max elevation: 640m | Transfer round-trip: 2hrs
4. Paine Massif Lookout
This excursion is exclusive to Patagonia Camp and is a private experience limited to the group and guide. Starting. We'll drive about 20 minutes from the hotel to the Grey Lookout from where we'll head up the trail towards one of the most stunning lookouts in Torres del Paine.
After hiking along winding paths surrounded by old forests and lagoons we'll get impressive views of the Paine Massif, Grey Glacier, part of the South Patagonian Ice Field and the Serrano Valley.
Then we'll begin our descent, passing a group of hidden lagoons with the path widening to reach a ravine filled with Pre-Andean Scrub and Lenga forests. Here we may be able to see the Magellanic woodpecker with the Serrano Valley providing the backdrop.
Full-day | Trek: 5hrs, 15km | Difficulty: Medium/High | Max elevation: 600m | Transfer one way: 1hr
5. Toro Heights
Located just in between Patagonia Camp and the Paine massif, can be found this secret jewel for trekking inside the park. A steady uphill will take us to the cornices of Toro Heights, where we hike across a deep and pristine Lenga forest away from the crowds of the popular W circuit, going by small lagoons reflecting the majestic geological formations. Experience the pure, lonely and wild Patagonia, with its varied views and changing vegetation. The trail ends with a slightly steeper decline to finish this unique hiking experience.
Full-day | Trek: 6hrs, 14km | Difficulty: Medium/High | Max elevation: 800m | Transfer round-trip: 2hrs
6. Pingo & Grey Beach
After driving 1hr to the west of the park, we arrive at the Pingo River where we walk through the plain and Magellan forest with views of the west face of Paine Grande. We cross pasture areas used by ranger's horses and into a dense and lively forest of lengas and coihues with abundant birdlife and varied flowers and vegetation. The first section culminates in a chorrillo frequented by salmon (in season).
You can really disconnect and enjoy the peace and tranquility provided by the shade of the foliage. This excursion is popular with forest-lovers, being a perfect complement between the dense vegetation that characterizes Southern Patagonia and wonderful views of the west side of the park.
Full-day | Trek: 3.5hrs, 8.6km | Difficulty: Medium | Max elevation: 105m |Transfer round-trip: 2hrs
Keira says
All excursions at Patagonia Camp are organised the night before depending on individuals' preferences, weather conditions and the guides' recommendations, with the intention of curating the best possible experience for the group. A minimum of two yurts is usually required for the excursions to be confirmed.
Keira Heron Patagonia Sales Consultant
7. Los Maitenes Peninsula
This hike is within the Torres del Paine Complejo and completely exclusive to Patagonia Camp. After a 40-min drive to El Bote Bay we'll start our walk across meadows, scrubland, areas of cattle grazing and through deciduous Magellanic forests and the only native forest of Mayten trees in Chilean South Patagonia.
We'll walk through pristine nature, home to species that have migrated from the National Park to quieter areas. This is a truly idyllic setting with fantastic views of the Paine Massif and Toro, Maravilla and Porteño lakes. The excursion ends with us walking back to Patagonia Camp.
Half-day | Trek: 5hrs, 15km | Difficulty: Medium | Max elevation: 200m | Transfer round-trip: 40mins
Los Maintenes Peninsula
8. Grey Trek
We start with a 30-minute catamaran trip across Lake Pehoe. The trail is on the western side of the W Circuit, through a basin of sedimentary rock along a relatively flat trail to the western slope of Mount Paine Grande.
The path crosses gently undulating ravines to the Grey Glacier Lookout for a panoramic view of Lake Grey and the immense glacier in the distance. From here it is possible to see the icebergs floating on the lake and to feel the characteristic cold Patagonian winds.
Note: Catamaran costs an extra USD $70pp approx. Excursion subject to itinerary of catamaran. Available Nov 1st to Mar 31st.
Full-day | Trek: 5hrs, 12km | Difficulty: Medium | Max elevation: 260m | Transfer round-trip: 3hrs | Advance booking required (at least two days)
Hiking past Lago Grey in Torres del Paine
9. Miradores
This excursion is the perfect opportunity to see two of the icons of the Paine Cordillera. During the first part we'll walk through an area with strong winds in the direction of the well-known Salto Grande Waterfall that connects two turquoise lakes. Then we'll trek through an area of burnt tree trunks to reach the lookout that offers us an up-close view of the mythical Paine Horns.
After a short vehicle transfer to the Pudeto Sector we'll begin the second part of the trek by heading straight up to a peak which has condor nests and impressive views of Lake Pehoe, the last mountains in the South Patagonian Ice Field and Sierra Baguales.
Full-day | Treks: 2.5hrs, 6km & 2hrs, 3.5km | Difficulty: High | Max elevations: 108m & 240m | Transfer round-trip: 3hrs
View of the Paine Horns
10. Historical Patagonia
This excursion takes place in the east of the National Park where the greatest concentration of mammals is found. We'll see 4,000-year-old cave paintings created by nomads from the Tehuelche culture and take an entertaining walk watching wildlife and learning some traditional myths and legends.
During the second part of the trip we'll head to the Laguna Azul area for stunning views of the iconic Paine Towers.
Full-day | Trek: 2.5hrs, 6.7km | Difficulty: Medium/Low | Max elevation: 330m | Transfer round-trip: 5hrs
11. Sarmiento Lake
Explore the great Sarmiento Lake, a paradise of geological formations and ancient life forms like cyanobacteria. Meet the first forms of life on our planet. Our journey also includes a hike along the shores of Lake El Toro near the Park administration area.
The trail begins at the historic Weber Bridge, leading through plains and Magellanic forest rich in Ñirres. After a brief ascent, enjoy breathtaking views of the Paine River, Lake El Toro, and the confluence of Serrano and Grey Rivers. Discover the vast Patagonian steppe and native orchids blooming in spring
This excursion runs from October to November.
Full-day | Treks: 4 hrs, two trails - 5km and 2..5km | Difficulty: Medium/Low | Max elevation: 120m | Transfer round-trip: 2.5hrs
12. The Milodon Cave
Visiting the Milodon Cave is the ideal choice for a quiet day. On this half-day excursion we'll visit a series of caves in and around Cerro Benitez, located a short distance from Puerto Natales. There are seven caves, three of which are protected as Natural Monuments by the Chilean government.
In each of the caves, evidence of the first people to inhabit the Steppe have been found as well as cave paintings and the remains of animals such as the Milodon sloth, sabre-toothed tiger and Hippidion Saldiasi horse. Like all the places chosen by the Aonikenk culture, the area is characterized by exceptional geology, spectacular views and favourable weather conditions.
Half-day | Treks: 3hrs, 5.5km | Difficulty: Low | Max elevations: 158m | Transfer round-trip: 1.5hrs
The Milodon Cave
13. Scenic Paine
This excursion is aimed at guests who prefer not to walk a long distance in the National Park but who'd like to visit in a vehicle for the best views some unforgettable memories of the most important landscapes. We'll drive along winding roads in the park, stopping at various lookout points for great views and to observe the local fauna.
Depending on the weather we may head either east or west, cross steppe with lakes and visit Magellanic forests and the mountainous terrain that borders the icefield. Any walks will be short ones, enabling us to get close to the best photographic locations.
Full-day | Trek: 30mins, 1km | Difficulty: Low | Max elevation: 160m | Transfer round-trip: 6hrs
Paine Massif Lookout
Sydney says
The only trouble with basing yourself at Patagonia Camp to explore Torres del Paine is that the property is so beautiful and serene that you won’t want to leave. If time allows, build in an extra day to sleep in, relax, and immerse yourself in the landscape - or at least in the private jacuzzi!
Sydney Miller Patagonia Specialist
Special Interest Excursions
14. Three Lagoons
Part of this trail is within the property where Patagonia Camp is located and it follows paths that border crystalline lakes with impressive views of Lake Toro, Cerro Tenerife and the Paine Massif in the distance as well as passing through native forests surrounded by Lenga and Coigüe beech trees and the impressive Guaitecas cypress tree.
We continue the hike across rocks and roped sections to finally reach the Toro Waterfall before heading back to camp.
Full-day | Trek: 5hrs, 14km | Difficulty: Medium/High | Max elevation: 250m | Transfer round-trip 1.5hrs
15. Cerro Castillo
Cerro Castillo, with its imposing presence, is one of the emblematic mountains in the vicinity of Torres del Paine. This excursion takes guests through a variety of landscapes unique to Chilean Patagonia, allowing observation of Lake Porteño, Lake Toro, the Paine Massif, Sierra Baguales, Las Chinas River, and Cerro Tenerife, with distant views of Grey Glacier. The day begins by venturing into the countryside through a forest of Ñirre beech trees, followed by a challenging ascent to the mountain peak.
Halfway along the trail, we enter an ancient forest of Lenga beech trees, providing a serene interlude before tackling the exposed ridge that leads to the summit. The path is flanked by towering walls of sedimentary rock, forming a high plateau that offers a 360° view of the natural landscapes of Chilean Patagonia. Good physical condition is required due to the significant ascent involved.
Full-day | Trek: 7hrs, 14km | Difficulty: High | Max elevation: 1,100m | Transfer round-trip: 1.5hrs
16. Lake Toro Kayak
This experience is one of the exclusive treasures that Patagonia Camp has for you. Guides will give you a briefing with basic paddling techniques and safety instructions. After being prepared with all the necessary equipment, we will go to the Patagonia Camp beach area, where a steep descent will connect you to the shore of Lake El Toro, the largest lake in the region with its pure waters and shades that vary from deep blue to intense turquoise. Paddle along protected bays and around islets accompanied by the extraordinary view of the Patagonian landscape, not to be missed!
Note: This excursion is subject to the weather. Guests must follow the instructions of our guides. Recommended for ages 14 to 65. Maximum weight per person is 103kg/227lb.
Half-day | Kayak: 3hrs, up to 5km | Difficulty: Medium/Low
17. Laguna Bonita Kayak
This kayak trip is one of the exclusive treasures offered by Patagonia Camp. Our team of guides will provide an informative talk on the technical basics of paddling and safety instructions. After getting fully kitted out with all the necessary equipment, we will go to the shore of Laguna Bonita, with pure and crystalline waters.
We will go along the coast and its beautiful Island. Having extra protection from the winds and shallow waters will help us to enjoy this activity with our specially certified guides. Kayak around the well protected bays and islands accompanied by extraordinary views of the Patagonian landscape.
Half-day | Kayak: 3hrs, up to 5km | Walk: 1.6km | Difficulty: Low
What to expect at Patagonia Camp...
Self-guided Excursions
18. Forest Therapy
Did you know that breathing among trees can increase your white cells, and boost your immune system? Reset your awareness and attention, and improve your focus & mindset. As a result, you can feel happier, more creative and energized. All this awaits you in Patagonia Camp's surroundings, make the most out of it by taking the Forest Therapy trail - a 300-metre walk along the Los Cipreses trail. This route goes through native forests with a diverse array of flora, providing an immersive forest bathing experience in this natural environment.
The trail is accessible and suitable for observing biodiversity and engaging with the ecosystem. Ideal for nature enthusiasts of all ages.
For this excursion, it is necessary to download an audio guide. The instructions will be handed out at the hotel reception desk.
Half-day | Trek: 40mins, 500m | Difficulty: Low
19. El Toro Waterfall
Just a few metres from the Camp, within the grounds, is this beautiful and isolated spot. The self-guided walk begins 500m from the entrance and it borders the immense Lake Toro. After about 40mins you reach the Toro Cascade, surrounded by native forest, where a variety of birds will appear to watch the hikers go by.
You'll get some fantastic shots of the Paine Massif as well as the Horns and Lake Toro. This walk allows you to visit a truly intimate place and to share one of our most romantic landscapes, something only offered by Patagonia Camp.
Half-day | Trek: 1.5hrs, 2km | Difficulty: Low/Medium | Max elevation: 50m
20. Two Lagoons Lookout
About 1 kilometre from the hotel entrance, this trail will take you to a fishing spot on the shores of Laguna Bonita. Along the way, you will find signage in the southeast section to help you reach this viewpoint.
You will also discover an intermediate viewpoint overlooking the Aluen Lagoon.
21. The Blue Lookout
There are many special places to discover in and around the Camp and the Blue Lookout is an ideal spot to observe and feel the rhythms of nature as you visit a little explored area which is excellent for contemplation and relaxation. The path is relatively flat and throughout you will be accompanied by forests of Coigüe beech and the local birds.
This self-guided hike offers views of the Paine Massif, Cerro Tenerife and the varied blue colours of Lake Porteño and Lake Toro. This is the perfect choice for a walk in the privacy of the property.
Half-day | Trek: 2hrs, 6km | Difficulty: Low/Medium | Max elevation: 120m
22. Riverbank fishing
Patagonia Camp is located on the banks of Lake Toro which, thanks to its irregular geography, has numerous islands, bays and rivers flowing into it. This makes it one of the best areas for fishing in the region. Rainbow and brown trout as well as salmon can be caught between November and March.
Our expert guides will indicate the best fishing spots and help with anything you need. Our fishing method is 'catch and release'.
Note: The fishing licence can be obtained online and it is the client's responsibility to obtain it. Consult with our staff in reception if you require help acquiring the licence. Fishing season is from October 15 to April 15.
Half-day | Trek: 10-90mins, 800m | Difficulty: Low | Max elevation: 50m
Fishing at Lake Toro
External excursions
The following excursions (A-E) are all additional extra excursions available at Patagonia Camp. Each of these excursions carries an extra cost and must be booked at the time of reserving your stay at Patagiona Camp in order for it to be guaranteed.
A. Boat trip on Lake Grey
This trip to the lake is without a doubt one of the most captivating experiences in Torres del Paine. Start this excursion with a 35-minute walk through a forest of Lenga beech trees and then along the shore of Lake Grey to reach our boat. The route allows guests to fully appreciate the unique landscape of vegetation, mountains and icebergs. We will be able to see up-close the gigantic walls of the centuries-old glacier with its range of blue tones.
Note: this excursion is not included in the all-inclusive shared program and it carries an additional cost of approx USD $140 per person. Charges for transport may also be applied. During the months of September, October, March, April and May a minimum of 25 guests is required for the boat trip to take place.
Full-day | Difficulty: Low | Advance booking required (at least two days)
B Full day at Estancia Cerro Guido
On this tour, enjoy beautiful landscapes to get to know in depth the vast territory of Estancia Cerro Guido. Our ride is designed for riders with or without previous experience, who want to experience Patagonia on horseback and discover the natural beauty offered by the surroundings of the Estancia, with its spectacular views of Lake Sarmiento, Sierra Baguales and the Paine Massif, surrounded by animals such as guanacos, rheas, foxes, horses and sheep. After our horseback ride through the amazing landscapes of the Estancia, we will have lunch at the hotel restaurant, with its unique local pairings.
After lunch, our visit begins in the living room of the administration house, with a half-hour introduction to locate ourselves on the map of the area and understand the life of Estancia within the historical context of Patagonia, strongly linked to the development of the extensive sheep farming. Later we will be participants in the typical activities of Estancia life; with the opportunity to learn more about the horses and their care, then in the organic garden, we will harvest the vegetables used in the kitchen and collect eggs from free-range hens.
Note: This excursion is not included in the all-inclusive shared program and has an additional cost of USD $250 per person on a double basis. Transportation charges of USD $400 will be applied.
Full-day | Difficulty: Medium/Low
C Conservation Safari Estancia Cerro Guido
With this activity, we invite you to participate for a day in the conservation project of the Cerro Guido Foundation. You will discover the diverse fauna characteristic of Patagonia and also strategies that the Estancia Cerro Guido is developing to achieve respectful livestock farming that coexists with native species.
The excursion starts at dawn, joining a member of the team of field trackers on their daily routine. We start with the puma research work at the ranch, participating in activities such as observation with binoculars and camera traps. The tour includes short walks without much difficulty.
Towards the end of the morning, you will discover the work of the sheep protection dogs and how they help the coexistence between conservation and human activity. After lunch and a break, the excursion will continue in the “Casa Puma”, the centre of operations of the Cerro Guido Conservation Foundation. There, you will watch a video presentation, and then head out on a final field trip, where you will see the research work being carried out in the Sierra del Toro.
Note: This excursion is not included in the all-inclusive shared program and has an additional cost of USD $430 per person on a double basis. Transportation charges of USD $400 will be applied.
Full-day | Difficulty: Medium/Low
D. Flyfishing
This activity takes place on the banks of Lake Toro, or in the nearby rivers, all of which are within the 34,000 hectares of the pristine countryside of Patagonia Camp. Due to the irregular geography, there are many excellent bays and river mouths for flyfishing making this an unmissable destination. We must carry out our activities following the rules established by SERNAPESCA so as not to interrupt the natural cycle of the trout in their run up the Serrano River to their spawning sites. This also protects the diverse water courses from any pathogens that may damage the environment and the ecosystem of the fish.
Note: This excursion is not included in the all-inclusive shared program and it carries an additional cost of approx USD $375 per person on a double basis, or USD $600 per person on a single basis. Fishing tackle and transport included. Fishing licence not included. Fishing season is between October 15 and April 15.
Full-day | Difficulty: Medium/low
E. Birdwatching
This is a fantastic opportunity to explore the various landscapes of Patagonia in search of birds. It is a roaming excursion that will aim to visit various different types of habitat.
Designed for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts in general, we will visit wetlands, streams, steppes, forests and walk along the banks of rivers to get as close as we can to the bird's homes without disturbing their natural behaviour.
The excursion leaves Patagonia Camp early in the morning and the destinations will be decided according to the weather conditions. Torres del Paine National Park is home to 126 species of birds, many of which migrate constantly over the area where the Camp is located making it an ideal spot for visiting birdwatchers.
Note: This excursion is not included in the all-inclusive shared program and it carries an additional cost of USD $330 per person based on two people sharing.
Full-day | Difficulty: Medium/low
