All Hiking Trails

Hiking Trails: Puerto Natales

Puerto Natales serves as the vibrant gateway to Patagonia's most iconic landscapes, offering an unparalleled hiking experience. From the world-renowned spires of Torres del Paine to lesser-known local gems, adventurers will find trails for every skill level amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

Updated for 2025–2026 Season12 min read
5 trailsBest Season: Spring (October-November) and Summer (December-February) offer the most stable weather, longest daylight hours, and the best conditions for hiking, although strong winds are common throughout.
Full guide to Puerto Natales →

Overview

The hiking scene around Puerto Natales is dominated by its proximity to Torres del Paine National Park, home to some of the planet's most spectacular treks. Beyond the park, the surrounding fjords, mountains, and steppes offer diverse day hikes with stunning panoramic views. It's the perfect base to explore a wild and untamed wilderness, requiring preparation but rewarding with unforgettable vistas.

Puerto Natales serves as a hub for a wide spectrum of hiking experiences, ranging from relatively easy and scenic day hikes around local lagoons to the strenuous and demanding multi-day treks within the world-renowned Torres del Paine National Park. Challenges often include significant elevation gains, long distances, and the famously unpredictable Patagonian weather, which demands careful preparation.

Trails

W Trek (Torres del Paine)

hardpoint-to-pointPermit Required

Distance

76 km

Elevation Gain

+3000m

Duration

4-5 days

Type

point-to-point

The iconic W Trek is a multi-day journey through the heart of Torres del Paine National Park, taking hikers to its most famous viewpoints. It traverses diverse landscapes including glacial valleys, ancient forests, and rugged mountain passes, offering an immersive Patagonian experience.

Highlights

Base TorresValle del Francés (French Valley)Grey GlacierLos Cuernos granite peaksLago Nordenskjöld

Waypoints

1

Refugio Chileno

5.5 km from start · +400m · 2h 30min

A popular stopover for the Base Torres hike, offering accommodation and meals.

2

Base Torres Viewpoint

11 km from start · +950m · 4h 30min

The breathtaking iconic granite towers reflected in a glacial lagoon.

3

Campamento Italiano

30 km from start · +1500m · 1 day 10h

A CONAF campsite marking the entrance to the French Valley, often a drop-off point for packs.

4

Mirador Británico

38 km from start · +2200m · 2 days 4h

The highest point in French Valley, offering a 360-degree panorama of glaciers and granite peaks.

5

Refugio Grey

60 km from start · +2700m · 3 days 12h

Located near the massive Grey Glacier, providing accommodation and access to kayak/ice hiking tours.

Gear Recommendations:
  • • Multi-day hiking backpack (50-70L)
  • • Sturdy waterproof hiking boots
  • • Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
  • • Layered clothing (fleece, merino wool)
  • • Tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad (if camping)
  • • Portable stove and cooking gear (if camping)
  • • Trekking poles
  • • Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
  • • Headlamp
  • • First-aid kit
  • • Water purification system or ample water bottles

Permit Required: Yes — An entrance fee to Torres del Paine National Park is mandatory. Additionally, all overnight stays (camping or refugio) must be booked well in advance through CONAF or private operators (Fantastico Sur, Hielos Patagonicos). Proof of reservation is required upon entry.

Trailhead Access: From Puerto Natales, take a regular bus service to Laguna Amarga (for the eastern part, e.g., Base Torres) or Pudeto (for the western part, e.g., Paine Grande via catamaran). Renting a car provides flexibility to reach Laguna Amarga.

Water Availability: Abundant streams and rivers along the trail; always filter or treat water before drinking.

Camping Options: Designated campsites and mountain refugios are available along the route. All accommodations must be booked several months in advance, as spaces are limited and unbooked stays are not permitted. Options include Campamento Central, Refugio Chileno, Campamento Francés, Refugio Paine Grande, Refugio Grey, etc.

Best Months: October, November, December, January, February, March, April

Mirador Base Torres

hardout-and-backPermit Required

Distance

22 km

Elevation Gain

+950m

Duration

8-10 hours

Type

out-and-back

This strenuous but highly rewarding day hike leads to the iconic granite spires known as the Torres del Paine. The trail offers a challenging ascent through forests and a moraine field, culminating in a breathtaking view of the three towers and their glacial lagoon.

Highlights

The iconic Torres del PaineGlacial lagoon at the baseAscencio Valley viewsOld growth forests

Waypoints

1

Hotel Las Torres / Refugio Las Torres

0 km from start · +0m · 0h 0min

The starting point for the hike, offering amenities and parking.

2

Refugio Chileno

5.5 km from start · +400m · 2h 30min

A popular rest stop and overnight option, roughly halfway to the towers.

3

Campamento Torres

9.5 km from start · +850m · 4h 0min

A rustic CONAF campsite, often used by those attempting a sunrise hike (check current status).

4

Moraine Climb

10 km from start · +900m · 4h 30min

The final, challenging ascent over large boulders to reach the viewpoint.

5

Base Torres Viewpoint

11 km from start · +950m · 5h 0min

The stunning destination, with the three granite towers towering over a turquoise lagoon.

Gear Recommendations:
  • • Day pack
  • • Sturdy waterproof hiking boots
  • • Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
  • • Warm layers (fleece, down jacket)
  • • Hat, gloves, and neck gaiter
  • • Sunscreen and sunglasses
  • • Trekking poles (highly recommended for the descent)
  • • Plenty of water (2-3 liters) and high-energy snacks
  • • First-aid kit

Permit Required: Yes — An entrance fee to Torres del Paine National Park is required. No specific trail permit is needed for a day hike, but overnight stays at refugios or campsites must be booked in advance.

Trailhead Access: Take a bus from Puerto Natales to Laguna Amarga, then a shuttle bus (or walk 7 km) to Hotel Las Torres/Refugio Las Torres. A rental car allows direct access to the Hotel Las Torres parking area.

Water Availability: Streams are available along the trail, especially up to Refugio Chileno. Always filter or treat water before drinking. Carry sufficient water for the final push.

Camping Options: Refugio Chileno and Campamento Central offer accommodation (reservations essential). Campamento Torres may be open, but check current CONAF regulations as it's often closed or restricted.

Best Months: October, November, December, January, February, March, April

Valle del Francés (French Valley)

hardout-and-backPermit Required

Distance

20 km

Elevation Gain

+700m

Duration

8-10 hours

Type

out-and-back

Often considered the most beautiful section of the W Trek, the French Valley hike offers incredible panoramic views of hanging glaciers, granite walls, and turquoise lakes. Listen for the thunderous sound of ice calving from the glaciers.

Highlights

Mirador FrancésMirador BritánicoHanging Glaciers (Glacier Francés)Panoramic views of granite peaks (Cuernos del Paine, Paine Grande)

Waypoints

1

Refugio Paine Grande

0 km from start · +0m · 0h 0min

Start point after arriving by catamaran across Lago Pehoé, offering accommodation and services.

2

Campamento Italiano

7.5 km from start · +100m · 2h 30min

CONAF campsite at the entrance to the French Valley, where hikers often leave their large packs.

3

Mirador Francés

9.5 km from start · +350m · 3h 45min

First major viewpoint in the valley, offering great views of Glacier Francés and the surrounding peaks.

4

Mirador Británico

15 km from start · +700m · 6h 0min

The ultimate viewpoint, providing a spectacular 360-degree panorama of the entire French Valley basin.

Gear Recommendations:
  • • Day pack
  • • Sturdy hiking boots
  • • Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
  • • Layers of warm clothing
  • • Hat, gloves, and sun protection
  • • Trekking poles (helpful for stability)
  • • Sufficient water and high-energy snacks
  • • First-aid kit

Permit Required: Yes — An entrance fee to Torres del Paine National Park is required. For a day hike, no additional trail permit beyond park entry is needed. If you plan to stay overnight, camp/refugio reservations are mandatory.

Trailhead Access: From Puerto Natales, take a bus to Pudeto, then a catamaran across Lago Pehoé to Refugio Paine Grande. This is the primary access point for the French Valley. Return via the same route.

Water Availability: Numerous streams flow down the valley; always filter or treat water. Carry sufficient water for sections between sources.

Camping Options: Refugio Paine Grande offers accommodation. Campamento Italiano (CONAF) is a rustic campsite, usually only available for those completing the W Trek and requiring prior reservation.

Best Months: October, November, December, January, February, March, April

Laguna Sofía Trail

easyout-and-back

Distance

7 km

Elevation Gain

+350m

Duration

3-4 hours

Type

out-and-back

A relatively easy and picturesque hike just outside Puerto Natales, offering beautiful views of Laguna Sofía and the surrounding hills. It's a great option for a shorter excursion or a warm-up before tackling bigger treks.

Highlights

Views of Laguna SofíaLocal flora and faunaClose proximity to Cueva del Milodón

Waypoints

1

Trailhead (near Cueva del Milodón)

0 km from start · +0m · 0h 0min

The start of the path, marked and easily accessible.

2

First Panoramic Viewpoint

1.5 km from start · +100m · 0h 45min

An early spot offering expansive views over the lagoon.

3

Forest Section

3 km from start · +250m · 1h 30min

A pleasant walk through a small native forest, offering shelter from the wind.

4

Lagoon Overlook

3.5 km from start · +350m · 2h 0min

The main viewpoint providing stunning vistas of Laguna Sofía and the distant mountains.

Gear Recommendations:
  • • Day pack
  • • Comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots
  • • Layers of clothing
  • • Light jacket (windbreaker recommended)
  • • Sunscreen and hat
  • • Water bottle and snacks

Permit Required: No

Trailhead Access: Requires a rental car or taxi from Puerto Natales (approx. 25-30 km north). The road is paved initially, then gravel but generally in good condition. Parking is available near the Cueva del Milodón Natural Monument.

Water Availability: Limited natural water sources on the trail. Carry all necessary water.

Camping Options: No official camping on this trail. Accommodation is available in Puerto Natales.

Best Months: September, October, November, December, January, February, March, April, May

Cerro Dorotea Summit Trail

moderateout-and-back

Distance

8 km

Elevation Gain

+600m

Duration

4-6 hours

Type

out-and-back

Ascend Cerro Dorotea for unparalleled panoramic views of Puerto Natales, the Última Esperanza Fjord, and the vast Patagonian steppe. This hike offers a fantastic perspective of the region and is often rewarded with condor sightings.

Highlights

360-degree views of Puerto Natales and the fjordCondor sightingsPatagonian steppe landscapeView of distant mountains

Waypoints

1

Trailhead (Estancia)

0 km from start · +0m · 0h 0min

The hike begins on private land, typically with a small entrance fee collected by the landowner.

2

Initial Steep Climb

1.5 km from start · +200m · 0h 45min

The first section involves a steady, steep ascent through grassland.

3

Ridge Walk

3 km from start · +400m · 2h 0min

A section along an exposed ridge with increasing views, often windy.

4

False Summit

3.5 km from start · +500m · 2h 30min

A flatter area offering a good rest spot before the final push to the true summit.

5

Summit Viewpoint

4 km from start · +600m · 3h 0min

The highest point, providing expansive panoramic views of the entire region.

Gear Recommendations:
  • • Day pack
  • • Sturdy hiking shoes or boots
  • • Warm layers (fleece or down)
  • • Windproof jacket and pants (essential due to exposure)
  • • Hat and gloves
  • • Sunscreen and sunglasses
  • • Plenty of water (no sources on trail)
  • • Snacks
  • • Camera

Permit Required: No

Trailhead Access: Located about 10 km north of Puerto Natales. A rental car or taxi is necessary to reach the trailhead, which is usually on private property with a small fee. The road is gravel but generally accessible.

Water Availability: No natural water sources along the trail. Carry all necessary drinking water.

Camping Options: No camping is permitted on Cerro Dorotea. Accommodation is readily available in Puerto Natales.

Best Months: September, October, November, December, January, February, March, April, May

Drive to the Trailhead

Browse Car Rentals

Safety Tips

  • 1Patagonian weather is notoriously unpredictable; always check forecasts, carry layers, and be prepared for all four seasons in one day.
  • 2Inform someone of your hiking plans, including your route and estimated return time, especially if hiking alone.
  • 3Carry sufficient water, high-energy snacks, and a first-aid kit for all hikes, even shorter ones.
  • 4Stay on marked trails to protect fragile ecosystems and avoid getting lost, particularly in exposed or remote areas.
  • 5Be aware of strong winds, which can be a significant hazard on exposed ridges and high elevations. Use trekking poles for stability.
  • 6Respect wildlife by maintaining a safe distance and not feeding animals. Condors and guanacos are common sights.
  • 7Ensure your phone is fully charged, but be aware that reception may be limited in remote areas. Consider carrying a satellite communication device for multi-day treks.

Emergency Contacts

Rescue Service

+56 61 2291111 (Carabineros de Chile, general emergency)

Park Rangers

+56 61 2298100 (CONAF Torres del Paine National Park Office)

Nearest Hospital

Hospital Dr. Augusto Essmann Burgos (Puerto Natales) +56 61 2411000

Before you hit the trail: Puerto Natales

🌤️Weather Guide✈️How to Get There🚗Car Rental⛺Camping Guide📍Destination Guide
Share

🥾 More Hiking Trails

Hiking Trails in Puerto Deseado (2026) — Best Hikes, Difficulty & MapsPuerto DeseadoHiking Trails in Puerto Madryn (2026) — Best Hikes, Difficulty & MapsPuerto MadrynHiking Trails in Puerto Montt (2026) — Best Hikes, Difficulty & MapsPuerto MonttHiking Trails in Puerto Río Tranquilo (2026) — Best Hikes, Difficulty & MapsPuerto Rio Tranquilo

📋 Practical Info for Puerto Natales

🛂Visa & Passport🛡️Travel Insurance⚠️Safety Guide💰Currency & Money🏥Health & Medical📶Internet & WiFi

Drive to the Trailhead

Rent a car to access the best hiking trails near Puerto Natales

Pickup Date
Drop-off Date

Explore More

Discover more guides and resources for this destination

Road Trips

Car Rental

Car Rental in Puerto Natales 2026 — Prices, Tips & Road Guide

Road Conditions

Road Conditions in Puerto Natales (2026) — Driving Guide & Fuel Stations

Driving Routes

Driving from Puerto Natales to El Calafate 2026 — Road Guide, Distance & Tips

Driving Routes

Driving from Puerto Natales to Torres del Paine 2026 — Road Guide, Distance & Tips

Driving Routes

Driving from Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales 2026 — Road Guide, Distance & Tips

Road Trip Itineraries

14-Day Complete Patagonia Road Trip — Complete Itinerary 2026

Road Trip Itineraries

4-Day Torres del Paine W-Trek — Complete Hiking Itinerary 2026

Road Trip Itineraries

6-Day Puma Tracking in Torres del Paine — Wildlife Safari 2026

Road Trip Itineraries

7-Day Torres del Paine & El Calafate Road Trip — Complete Itinerary 2026

Explore More Guides

View all →

Hiking Trails in Aluminé (2026) — Best Hikes, Difficulty & Maps

Hiking Trails in Carretera Austral (2026) — Best Hikes, Difficulty & Maps

Hiking Trails in Caviahue-Copahue (2026) — Best Hikes, Difficulty & Maps

Hiking Trails in Chaitén (2026) — Best Hikes, Difficulty & Maps

Hiking Trails in Chile Chico (2026) — Best Hikes, Difficulty & Maps

Hiking Trails in Chiloé Island (2026) — Best Hikes, Difficulty & Maps

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for Torres del Paine?

Yes, an entrance fee is required for Torres del Paine National Park, which can be purchased online or at the park entrance. For multi-day treks (like the W or O circuits), you *must* also have all your campsites or refugio accommodations booked in advance. Unbooked overnight stays are strictly prohibited.

What's the best time of year to hike in Puerto Natales?

The peak hiking season is from December to February (summer), offering the warmest weather and longest daylight hours. The shoulder seasons (October-November and March-April) are also excellent, often with fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures, though weather can be more unpredictable.

What gear should I bring for hiking in Patagonia?

Layered clothing is crucial due to rapidly changing weather conditions. Essential gear includes sturdy waterproof hiking boots, waterproof and windproof outer layers, warm mid-layers (fleece, down), a hat, gloves, sun protection, a day pack (or multi-day pack for longer treks), and plenty of water and snacks. Trekking poles are highly recommended.

How do I get to the trailheads from Puerto Natales?

For Torres del Paine, regular bus services run daily from Puerto Natales to the park entrances (Laguna Amarga, Pudeto, Serrano). For trails closer to Puerto Natales (e.g., Laguna Sofía, Cerro Dorotea), a rental car or taxi is highly recommended for greater flexibility and access.

Is it safe to hike alone in this area?

While many trails are well-trafficked, especially in Torres del Paine, it's generally safer to hike with a companion. If hiking alone, always inform someone of your itinerary, stick to marked trails, and be acutely aware of rapidly changing weather conditions.

Can I rent hiking gear in Puerto Natales?

Yes, several shops in Puerto Natales offer rental services for essential hiking and camping gear, including backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, trekking poles, waterproof clothing, and cooking equipment. This is a convenient option for travelers who don't wish to carry all their gear.

Are there guided tours available for hiking?

Absolutely. Numerous reputable tour operators in Puerto Natales offer a wide range of guided options, from full-service multi-day treks in Torres del Paine to shorter day hikes around the region. Guides provide valuable local knowledge, ensure safety, and handle logistics.

What are the benefits of renting a car in Puerto Natales?

Renting a car offers immense flexibility for exploring the region at your own pace. While buses serve Torres del Paine, a car allows you to access less-frequented trailheads (like Laguna Sofía or Cerro Dorotea), stop at scenic viewpoints, and manage your schedule without relying on public transport timetables. Roads outside the main towns can be gravel, so consider a robust vehicle.

Puerto Natales

Planning your Patagonia trip?

Rent a Car →

|