Chilean Patagonia is a magical land of volcanoes and lakes, glaciers and gauchos, and home to the iconic Torres del Paine National Park, voted the world’s 8th wonder in 2013. Its a breathtaking banquet of beauty and wildlife. You can see the main sights in a single day but to really capture its magic we think you should linger longer.
Here are six reasons to put Torres del Paine on your travel menu.
SCENERY
Magnificent views greet you in every direction and most are easily accessed, while extended hikes reveal hidden gems. Snow dusted mountains hold glaciers defiantly hanging to their sides Staring in awe at the Towers rising 3,000m from the Patagonian steep provide one of the most inspiring views a traveller could ever hope to see.
VARIETY
Excellent facilities make the park perfect for all travellers. Choose to explore remote valleys on foot, staying in beautifully located cabins or indulge in a more relaxed stay in a luxury lodge.
PHOTOGRAPHY
The extended daylight, up to 17hrs in summer, is full of intense colours, contrasts and textures thanks to its southern location. Make sure you rise early for sunrise, when the Cuernos (horns) of the Paine Massif turn purple and then red in the early light.
TREKKING
The park offers some of the best trekking in the world. Walking trails take you through dense forests, alongside waterfalls and past turquoise lakes. Views reach up to the Southern Ice Field, stretching back 350km, with an area of 12,330 km2. Walks vary from short and easy, to extensive and challenging, with the legendary “W” spread over 4 long days.
ADVENTURE
There’s a great variety of activities to choose from. Take a cruise to the Grey glacier, or paddle a kayak among enormous icebergs. Experience the culture and join the gauchos for an exhilarating horse ride through the pristine wilderness. Fly fishing, cycling, and even a marathon are also available.
WILDLIFE
An extensive range of indigenous animals call the park home and you’ll easily spot condors, foxes, and guanacos. There are packages focussed on tracking and observing animals, including the elusive puma.
GO NOW
Due to its remote location in southern Chile, 5hrs to Punta Arenas airport, Torres del Paine is relatively uncrowded. This will change in late 2016 when an airport opens just 120km from the park. Go before then to avoid the expected crowds, or wait till then for more options to do quick trips. LATAM Airlines operates seven one-stop flights each week from Sydney to Santiago, Chile, with connections to over 115 destinations in South America. LATAM also offers non-stop flights between Sydney and Santiago four times a week in codeshare partnership with oneworld partner airline.
Find out more and order your brochure at forwardtravel.com.au/chile
