The O Circuit Trek in Torres del Paine

The adventure begins right away this morning as you meet your group and guide at 7:00 am in Puerto Natales. From here, you’ll whiz past peaceful landscapes covered in flat pampas and dotted with authentic estancias as you transfer by vehicle to Torres del Paine National Park (2 hours). Keep your eyes peeled during the ride, as you’ll have the chance to spot Chilean pink flamingos and black-necked swans along the way.

Following your arrival at Refugio Torres, you’ll suit up and prepare to embark on the first highlight of this magical trek – the hike to the Three Towers Lookout! Tracing the Ascencio River and heading down into the valley, you’ll hike through rich beech forests to finally ascend the impressive moraine which leads to the world-famous look out point.

Stand in awe as you look out over the towers from 900 m above sea level. Enjoy lunch here and of course lots of photos before descending the same path back to the refugio where you’ll enjoy a hearty dinner and a good night’s rest.

Rise to one of the best views in the park this morning as you look out over the towers and prepare for your first hike to Serón. The journey sets out through ancient beech forest today on a gently sloping trail with incredible views of Paine Chico Mountain along the way.

After a nice and easy warm up hike of just 9 kilometers today, you’ll reach Serón campsite where you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner and your first night beneath the stars at camp.

If you’re lucky enough to be trekking during wildlife season, today’s trail will be painted with violets, orchids and numerous other wildflowers in bloom. The group will set out after breakfast this morning to enjoy impressive mountain views as you circle Paine Lake.

Approaching the Paine River, you’ll note the curvaceous peak of Cerro Cubo up above and Lake Dickson in the distance. On arrival at Camp Dickson, you’ll unwind after a challenging 18.5 kilometers today and will no doubt be ready for a hearty dinner at camp!

For many hikers, today is one of the most beautiful sections of the circuit as you leave Lake Dickson bound for Los Perros.

The trail is characterized by rushing waterfalls, towering peaks and enchanted beech forests, all making for a real-life fairy tale that unfolds before your eyes. The trail later crosses a suspension bridge en route to the base of the second terminal moraine – that of Glacier Los Perros. A final push brings you to Los Perros campsite where you’ll spend the night.

Please note, Los Perros is the only accommodation without hot showers and flushing toilets on the circuit.

Today will be the most challenging day of the trek, so make sure to fuel up with a good breakfast as you set out for the John Gardner Pass.

After a pleasant start on a forest trail, you’ll press on through a swampy section before ascending the famous John Gardner Pass. 1200m above sea level, the pass is known for wild winds and unparalleled views across Grey Glacier. You’ll continue, spurred on by your group and guide to Camp Grey where you’ll have a change to recharge after a formidable, but likewise incredible day on the trail.

With a busy last few days on the O Circuit, this morning you’ll have the chance to rise at your own pace and enjoy a relaxing morning at Camp Grey.

A few adventures are on the table this morning! Following breakfast, enjoy a short hike to Grey Glacier’s lookout point, kayak (not included) or ice hike (not included). After lunch at the Grey refuge, you’ll set out on the short 11 kilometer hike to Paine Grande.

Some will say the best has been saved for last on the O Circuit Trek as you traverse the stunning French Valley today. Setting out to walk around Paine Grande, you’ll traverse Patagonian firebush and beech forest to reach a suspension bridge above the French River.

Some light scrambling across a boulder field will be rewarded with views of the hanging glacier perched atop the valley as you make your way to the “Plateau” (viewpoint). From here you’ll spot the French Glacier and Paine Grande (3050m) off to one side and the horns of Los Cuernos rising on the other. Enjoy lunch with this spectacular view before returning the same way to reach the catamaran (35 minutes) that will take you back across Lake Pehoe. Once on the other side, a private transfer (2 hours) will take the group back to Puerto Natales where your O Circuit Trek concludes.