What excursions are available?
All-inclusive Excursions
Special Interest Excursions
14. Three Lagoons
15. Cerro Castillo
16. Lake Toro Kayak
17. Laguna Bonita Kayak
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.
You'll climb through forests of lenga beech and Andean scrubland 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 you'll find yourself in an awe-inspiring amphitheatre of rocky peaks and glaciers.
Full-day (14 hours) | Hike: 9 hours, 13.5 miles/22km | Difficulty: High | Max elevation: 2,900ft/870m | Transfer round-trip: 4 hours
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. You'll start at Pudeto Dock where you take a catamaran across the icy waters of Lake Pehoé to the slopes of Cerro Paine Grande.
From here it's a marvellous hike, full of scenic contrasts, to Italian Camp after which you'll 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: The Catamaran costs an extra USD $70pp approx which must be paid in cash (either USD or CLP) locally at Patagonia Camp. The excursion is subject to cancellation in case of high winds, and is subject to availability - upon arrival at Patagonia Camp, your guides will advise you of the best day to partake in this excursion if you decide. A minimum of two yurts are required for the excursion unless clients pre-book the tour in private. Available Nov 1st to Mar 31st.
Full-day (13.5 hours) | Hike: 7 hours, 12.5 miles/20km | Difficulty: Medium/High | Max elevation: 1,650ft/500m | Transfer round-trip: 5 hours
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!
Full-day (9 hours) | Hike: 5 hours, 4 miles/6.5km | Difficulty: Medium/High | Max elevation: 2,600ft/800m | Transfer round-trip: 2 hours
4. Paine Massif Lookout
This excursion is exclusive to Patagonia Camp and is a private experience limited to the group and guide. You'll drive about 20 minutes from the hotel to the Grey Lookout from where you'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 you'll get impressive views of the Paine Massif, Grey Glacier, part of the South Patagonian Ice Field and the Serrano Valley.
Then you'll begin your descent, passing a group of hidden lagoons with the path widening to reach a ravine filled with pre-Andean scrub and lenga forests. Here you may be able to see the Magellanic woodpecker with the Serrano Valley providing the backdrop.
Full-day (8 hours) | Hike: 5 hours, 9.5 miles/15km | Difficulty: Medium/High | Max elevation: 1,650ft/500m | Transfer one way: 1 hour
5. Toro Heights
Located just in between Patagonia Camp and the Paine massif is this secret gem of a trek.
Setting out, a steady ascent will take you to the cornices of Toro Heights, where you hike across a deep and pristine Lenga forest away from the crowds of the popular W circuit. You'll pass by small lagoons reflecting the majestic landscapes and experience lonely and wild Patagonia, with constantly changing vistas.
The trail culminates with a slightly steeper descent to finish this unique hiking experience.
Full-day (9 hours) | Hike: 6 hours, 9 miles/14.5km | Difficulty: Medium/High | Max elevation: 2,700ft/820m | Transfer round-trip: 2 hours
6. Pingo & Grey Beach
After driving for one hour to the west of the park, you'll arrive at the Pingo River where you'll walk through the plain and Magellan forest with views of the west face of Paine Grande. You'll 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 stream frequented by salmon (in season).
Next, you'll cross the Pingo River and walk to an ancient lenga forest by Lake Grey, with views of the Paine Massif and, clear weather permitting, views of distant icebergs. There will also be a 45-metre ascent to a viewpoint over Lake Grey.
On this excursion you can really disconnect and enjoy the peace and tranquility provided by the shade of the foliage. It's a popular trip with forest-lovers, being a perfect complement between the dense vegetation that characterises Southern Patagonia and wonderful views of the west side of the park.
Full-day (9 hours) | Hike: 5 hours, 6.5 miles/10.5km & 3 miles/5km | Difficulty: Medium | Max elevation: 380ft/120m | Transfer round-trip: 2 hours
Swoop 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 you'll start your 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.
You'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 you walking back to Patagonia Camp.
Full-day (8 hours) | Hike: 5 hours, 9.5 miles/15km | Difficulty: Medium/High | Max elevation: 1,650ft/500m | Transfer round-trip: 1 hour
Los Maintenes Peninsula
8. Grey Trek
You'll start with a 30-minute catamaran trip across Lake Pehoé. 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.
On arrival at Refugio Paine Grande at the end of the hike, there will be a minimum of 1.5 hours to wait for the catamaran back across Lake Pehoé.
Note: Catamaran costs an extra USD $70pp approx. Excursion subject to itinerary of catamaran. Available Nov 1st to Mar 31st.
Full-day (13.5 hours) | Hike: 4 hours, 7 miles/11.2km | Difficulty: Medium | Max elevation: 820ft/250m | Transfer round-trip: 2 hours | 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 you'll walk through an area with strong winds in the direction of the well-known Salto Grande Waterfall that connects two turquoise lakes. Then you'll trek through an area of burnt tree trunks to reach the lookout that offers you an up-close view of the mythical Paine Horns.
After a short vehicle transfer to the Pudeto Sector you'll begin the second part of the trek by heading straight up to a peak which has condor nests and impressive views of Lake Pehoé, the last mountains in the South Patagonian Ice Field and Sierra Baguales.
Full-day (9 hours) | Hike: 5 hours, 4 miles/6.5km & 2 miles/3.2km | Difficulty: Medium/low | Max elevation: 800ft/240m | Transfer round-trip: 2 hours
View of the Paine Horns
10. Historical Patagonia
This excursion takes place in the east of the National Park, known for it's rich history and cultural significance.
You'll see cave paintings, thousands of years old, created by nomads of the Aonikenk culture and take an entertaining walk, watching wildlife and learning some traditional myths and legends.
During the second part of the trip you'll head to the Laguna Azul area for stunning views of the iconic Paine Towers from a beautiful location.
Full-day (11 hours) | Hike: 4 hours, 5 miles/8km | Difficulty: Medium/Low | Max elevation: 820ft/250m | Transfer round-trip: 4 hours
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. Your 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, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the Paine River, Lake El Toro, and the confluence of Serrano and Grey Rivers. This is an ideal trip for discovering the vast Patagonian steppe and native orchids blooming in spring.
This excursion runs from October to November.
Full-day (9 hours) | Hike: 4 hours, 3.5 miles/5km & 1.5 miles/2.5km | Difficulty: Medium/Low | Max elevation: 380ft/120m | Transfer round-trip: 2.5 hours
12. The Milodon Cave
Visiting the Milodon Cave is the ideal choice for a quiet day. On this excursion you'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 three caves you'll visit, evidence of the first people to inhabit the Steppe has 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 characterised by exceptional geology, spectacular views and favourable weather conditions.
Full-day (13.5 hours) | Walk: 4 hours, 4.5 miles/7.2km | Difficulty: Low | Max elevation: 700ft/215m | Transfer round-trip: 2 hours
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 and unforgettable memories of the most important landscapes. You'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 you 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 you to get close to the best photographic locations.
Full-day (9.5 hours) | Hike: 1 hour | Difficulty: Low | Max elevation: 820ft/250m | Distance: 160 miles/250km
Paine Massif Lookout
Swoop 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 on which Patagonia Camp is located. It follows a route that borders crystalline lakes and offers impressive views of Lake Toro, Cerro Tenerife and the Paine Massif in the distance. You'll also pass through native forests of lenga and coigüe beech trees and the impressive Guaitecas cypress tree.
Leaving the forest, the hike continues across rocks and roped sections to finally reach the Toro Waterfall. Here you can rest and soak up the views before heading back to camp. Good physical condition is required to complete this hike, due to the ascent on roped sections.
Half-day (4 hours) | Hike: 3.5 hours, 6 miles/10km | Difficulty: Medium/High | Max elevation: 538ft/164m | Transfer round-trip: 10 minutes
15. Cerro Castillo
The imposing Cerro Castillo is one of the emblematic mountains in the vicinity of Torres del Paine. This excursion takes you through a myriad of landscapes unique to Chilean Patagonia, with views of Lake Porteño, Lake Toro, the Paine Massif, Sierra Baguales, Las Chinas River, and Cerro Tenerife. There are also distant views of Grey Glacier.
Your day starts by venturing into the countryside through a forest of ñirre beech trees, followed by a challenging ascent to the peak of Cerro Castillo.
Halfway along the trail, you'll enter an ancient forest of lenga beech trees which provide a peaceful interlude before you tackle the exposed ridge leading to the summit. The path is flanked by towering walls of sedimentary rock, forming a high plateau with 360° views of the landscapes of Chilean Patagonia. Good physical condition is required to complete this hike, due to the significant ascent involved.
Full-day (9 hours) | Hike: 7 hours, 9 miles/14km | Difficulty: High | Max elevation: 3,600ft/1,100m | Transfer round-trip: 1.5 hours
16. Lake Toro Kayak
This experience is one of the exclusive excursions 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, you'll go to the Patagonia Camp beach area, where a steep descent connects you to the shore of Lake El Toro. This is the largest lake in the region, with 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 (4 hours) | Kayak: 3 hours, up to 2.5 miles/4km |. Difficulty: Medium/Low | Transfer time: 10 minutes walk
17. Laguna Bonita Kayak
This kayak trip is one of the exclusive excursions offered by Patagonia Camp. 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, you'll head to the pure and crystalline waters of Laguna Bonita.
Here you'll take a short hike along the coast and explore a section of the bay. The island provides extra protection from the winds, and shallow waters will help you to enjoy this activity with your specially certified guides. Kayak around the well-protected bays and islands accompanied by extraordinary views of the Patagonian landscape.
Half-day (4 hours) | Kayak: 3 hours, up to 3 miles/5km | Walk: 1.6km | Difficulty: Medium/Low | Transfer time: 10 minutes walk
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 and mindset. As a result, you can feel happier, more creative and energised.
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 winds through native forests with a diverse array of flora, providing an immersive forest-bathing experience.
For this excursion, it is necessary to download an audio guide. The instructions will be handed out at the hotel reception desk.
Walk: 40 minutes | Difficulty: Low
19. El Toro Waterfall
Just a short distance from the Camp, within the grounds, is this beautiful and isolated spot. The self-guided walk begins 500m from the entrance and borders the immense Lake Toro. After about 40 minutes of walking you'll reach the El Toro Waterfall, surrounded by native forest, where a variety of birds will appear to watch you 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 experience one of our most romantic landscapes - something only offered by Patagonia Camp.
Half-day (1.5 hours) | Walk: 45 minutes one-way, 1.6 miles/2.5km | Difficulty: Medium
20. Two Lagoons Lookout
About 0.6 miles/1km from the hotel entrance, this trail will take you to a viewpoint and fishing spot on the shores of Laguna Bonita.
There are signs along the route to guide you to the Two Lagoons Lookout, and you can stop at another viewpoint on the trail, overlooking Aluen Lagoon.
Walk: 1.2 miles/2km | Difficulty: Low
21. The Blue Lookout
There are many special places to discover in and around the Camp. The Blue Lookout is an ideal spot from which to observe and feel the rhythms of nature in a little-explored area, excellent for contemplation and relaxation.
The path through the Coigüe beech forest is relatively flat, and throughout you will be accompanied by the local birds.
This self-guided hike offers views of the Paine Massif, Cerro Tenerife and the blue waters of Lake Porteño and Lake Toro. This is the perfect choice for a walk in the privacy of the property.
Hike: 2 hours, 6km | Difficulty: Low/Medium | Max elevation: 400ft/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.
Walk: 10-90mins, 800m | Difficulty: Low
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 Patagonia Camp in order for it to be guaranteed.
A. Boat trip on Lake Grey
This trip to Lake Grey is without a doubt one of the most captivating experiences in Torres del Paine. The excursion starts with a 35-minute walk through a forest of Lenga beech trees, and then along the shore of Lake Grey to reach your boat.
The boat trip allows you to fully appreciate the mountains and icebergs in this area as you make your way up Lake Grey to the immense Grey Glacier at its northern end. From the boat you'll get a close-up view of the gigantic blue walls of the glacier.
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 (7 hours) | Hike: 1.5 hours, 2.5 miles/4km | Difficulty: Low | Transfer round-trip: 3 hours | Advance booking required (at least two days)
B Full day at Estancia Cerro Guido
This ride is designed for people with or without previous riding experience, who want to experience Patagonia on horseback and discover the natural beauty offered by the surroundings of the Estancia. There are spectacular views of Lake Sarmiento, Sierra Baguales and the Paine Massif, surrounded by animals such as guanacos, rheas, foxes, horses and sheep.
After your ride, you'll have lunch at the hotel restaurant.
After lunch, you'll visit the living room of the administration house. There will be a 30-minute introduction to the Estancia's historical context within Patagonia, strongly linked to the development of sheep farming. Later you'll participate in typical Estancia life, with the opportunity to learn more about the horses and their care. In the organic garden, you'll harvest the vegetables used in the kitchen and collect eggs from the 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 also be applied.
Full-day (7 hours) | Difficulty: Medium/Low | Transfer round-trip: 3 hours
C Conservation Safari Estancia Cerro Guido
This excursion invites you to participate for a day in the conservation project of the Cerro Guido Foundation.
You'll discover the diverse fauna of Patagonia and also strategies that 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. You'll start with puma research work at the ranch, participating in activities such as observation with binoculars and camera traps. Also included are short walks without much difficulty.
Towards the end of the morning, you'll discover the work of the sheep protection dogs, and 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, before heading out on a final field trip, where you will see 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 (10 hours) | Difficulty: Medium/Low | Transfer round-trip: 3 hours
D. Fly fishing
This is a fully-personalised fly fishing experience in the pristine rivers, lakes and lagoons of the area.
These sites can be very dynamic with strong currents, wooded areas and no human activity. Anglers can expect to catch large migratory trout (silver trout/sea trout), brown trout, resident brown trout, plus some species of salmon such as Chinook and Coho.
Fishing locations will be chosen based on your level of experience, weather conditions and your preferences.
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 equipment, 4x4 transport and a delicious lunch included. Fishing licence not included. Fishing season is between 15th October and 15th April.
Full-day (8 hours) | Walking: 5 hours, 9.5 miles/15km | Difficulty: Low | Transfer round-trip: 1 hour
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, you'll visit wetlands, streams, steppe and forests. You'll also walk along riverbanks to get as close as possible to birds, 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 in which the Camp is located - this makes it an ideal spot for birdwatchers.
Note: This excursion is not included in the all-inclusive shared program and it carries an additional cost of USD $330 per person on a double basis.
Full-day (8 hours) | Walk: 5 hours, 9.5 miles/15km | Difficulty: Medium/Low | Transfer round-trip: 1 hour
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