Torres Del Paine Circuit

Also known as: O Circuit / Circuito Grande / Paine Circuit

Distance: 130 km
Duration: 7 - 9 days
Country:
The Torres Del Paine Circuit offers an immersive experience of Patagonia's untamed wilderness, taking you through dense forests, past glacial lakes, and up close to towering granite peaks. This circuit lets you escape the crowds, providing a more secluded and comprehensive exploration of one of the world's most iconic national parks.

Distances

  • 7 - 9 days, 130 km, +3,000 m, 1,200 m high point
  • daily: 5 - 8 hours, 15 - 20 km, +200 - 400 m gain

Route

  • circuit
  • Starting and ending in Torres Del Paine Welcome Center

When to go

  • November to March
The Torres Del Paine Circuit is a challenging and stunning trek through the breathtaking landscapes of Torres Del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia. This 8-day itinerary covers the entire circuit, offering a mix of rugged terrain, dramatic vistas, and close encounters with the park's diverse wildlife.
Day 1

Hotel Las Torres to Serón Camp (200 m)

Distance: 13 kmTime trekking / climbing: 4 hoursElevation change: +50 m
Leave Hotel Las Torres in the morning and begin your trek to Serón Camp. The trail offers beautiful views of Lake Pehoé and the surrounding landscape.
Day 2

Serón Camp to Dickson Camp (200 m)

Distance: 18 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hours
Continue your journey to Dickson Camp, passing through lush forests and enjoying the tranquility of the Patagonian wilderness.
Day 3

Dickson Camp to Los Perros Camp (600 m)

Distance: 12 kmTime trekking / climbing: 5 hoursElevation change: +400 m
Hike to Los Perros Camp, where you'll get closer to the stunning glaciers and experience the beauty of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field.
Day 4

Los Perros Camp to Grey Camp (100 m)

Distance: 16 kmTime trekking / climbing: 9 hoursElevation change: -500 m
Cross the challenging John Gardner Pass, offering panoramic views of glaciers and peaks. Reach Grey Camp for a well-deserved rest.
Day 5

Grey Camp to Paine Grande Camp (50 m)

Distance: 11 kmTime trekking / climbing: 5 hoursElevation change: -50 m
Continue along Lake Grey to Paine Grande Camp, where you'll have amazing views of the Paine Massif.
Day 6

Paine Grande Camp to Italiano Camp (150 m)

Distance: 8 kmTime trekking / climbing: 3 hoursElevation change: +100 m
Hike to Italiano Camp, with opportunities to explore the French Valley and enjoy breathtaking vistas.
Day 7

Italiano Camp to Chileno (450 m)

Distance: 16 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: +300 m
This serene yet extensive stretch traces the foothills of the massif, offering breathtaking vistas from above. The Central campsite and refuge snugly rest against a hillside, providing a picturesque outlook on the massif.
Day 8

Chileno to the Base of the Torres and then back to Hotel Las Torres (900 m)

Distance: 14 kmTime trekking / climbing: 5 hoursElevation change: +450 m
Head to the Torres' Base, where you'll find the park's most cherished treasure: the majestic towers that give Torres del Paine its name. These towers rise impressively from a glacial lake, its waters a deep, vivid blue. Take in the beauty of the sunrise, wander through the surrounding landscapes, capture cherished moments with your camera, savor a light snack, and then begin your descent towards Chileno. Get your belongings ready and set out on your way to the Central campsite, also known as Hotel Las Torres.

The trek is 5 / 10, based on the below factors:

Terrain & route condition 6 / 10

Treks that involve rugged or uneven terrain, such as rocky paths, scree slopes, or dense forests, may require more technical skills or physical effort.

Altitude / Elevation 4 / 10

Considering the maximum altitude reached during the trek. Higher altitudes can present challenges like thin air, low oxygen levels, and potential altitude sickness.

Distance 7 / 10

The total distance of the trek. Longer treks generally require more endurance and physical fitness.

Elevation gain 6 / 10

Total elevation gain throughout the trek. Treks with significant altitude changes can be more challenging, especially if they involve steep ascents or descents.

Technical difficulty 3 / 10

Some treks may require basic technical skills like river crossings, using ropes, or scrambling over rocks.

Access to facilities / Remoteness 8 / 10

Based on the availability of support facilities such as accommodation, food, water sources, and emergency services. Treks with limited infrastructure or remote areas can be more challenging due to self-sufficiency requirements. The less support facilities there are the harder the trek.

Climate & weather 5 / 10

How tough are the prevailing weather and climate conditions during the trek. Harsh weather, extreme temperatures, or unpredictable conditions can add to the difficulty.