Chile - Torres del Paine - Information

Practical information
We provide below with information as regard to trekking in Torres del Paine.
Advice is based on the famous "W" route (between 4-5 days) and prices are expressed in US$.

• You can get there from Puerto Natales (Chili) or from El Calafate (Argentina) with the bus;
• Do not forget to bring money (Chilean pesos) and food! As you may come directly from Argentina (e.g. El Calafate), be aware of the fact that food can't be taken (border regulations) and you won't be able to change the money in the park. To make it easier, have a stop in Puerto Natales;
• Bring your own equipment if you camp (tent, sleeping bag, mat, stove, food, warm cloths, ...). Equipment may be rented as well (in Puerto Natales or in the park). Basic food can be bought in some refugios;
• A map is given with the entrance ticket. Be that as it may, in high season, maps may be lacking. We recommend then to buy your own one (7$);
• Reservations must be done, especially in summertime (january & february) and if you plan to sleep in refugios (35$ pp in a dormitory);
• Information may be collected in the park (cf. Conaf), but better be prepared beforehands;
• Weather is unpredictable. Bring warm cloths and be ready to have rain showers and very strong wind;
• Buses from Puerto Natales leave at 7.30am and cost 24$ pp (De ida y vuelta).

Prices

To do the "W" trail, i.e. 4 nights with your tent, it will cost about 115$ per person (56500 pesos). It includes transportation (bus 12000p, catamaran 11000p, bus tranfert 1000p), and accomodation (camping 3500p x4) and a detailed map (3500p). Note that food is not included!

Transportation

The bus (24$ pp) from Puerto Natales to Torres del Paine leaves at 7.30 am and you can stop at 3 different places, depending on your plans:

• Laguna Amarga;
• Pudeto (we opted for this stop, then catamaran);
• Administracíon.

Web site (to get extra info)

http://www.torresdelpaine.com/ingles/index.asp

Map (click to enlarge)