Reasons to hike the Full Circuit
The Torres del Paine loop, known as the Full Circuit or the O Circuit runs right around the Paine range. Experienced hikers will enjoy the challenge of some of the tougher passes, and for beginners, this is definitely a hike to aspire to.
- Complete a full circuit of the Paine range, visiting all the highlights as well as some hidden gems
- Escape the crowds on the W Trek by continuing into the quieter northern areas of the park
- Take on the challenging John Gardner pass to be rewarded by breathtaking views of the icecap stretching into the distance
- Camp with a view at some of the national park's secluded campsites that hug the mountain range
O Circuit: the route
Starting at Refugio Torre or Paine Grande, you'll hike the full trek anticlockwise, visiting the three valleys of the W Trek as well as the quieter trails across the north. Stunning views and a sense of achievement await all who embark on this trail, and there is no shortage of highlights. The main areas to visit are:
- Dickson Lake, a beautiful tranquil campsite with views of the Dickson Glacier
- The hanging Perros Glacier which sits above the remote Perros campsite, one of your rest stops
- The John Gardner Pass, during the most challenging day of hiking, where you will climb to 1200m for spectacular views of the icecap
- Descend to Glacier Grey and follow the glacier as it meets Lake Grey
- Hike through French Valley, with the vast hanging Glacier Frances dominates the landscape on your left as you climb
- You will visit the magnificent mile-high granite towers that give Torres del Paine its name, either at the start or end of your trek. Climbing to this viewpoint is one of the more challenging days of the trek, with an 800m climb and 7-9 hours of hiking
The O Circuit - Route and Elevation Map
The O'Circuit
112km | 69.5 miles
7 days
Elevation gain: +13,618ft/4,151m
Elevation loss: -13,945ft/4,250m
Harriet says
More hiking in Patagonia
For avid hikers, Torres del Paine is certainly one to tick off the bucket list, but this national park is not alone. The whole Patagonian region boasts some of the best hiking in the world, with glaciers, volcanoes, forests and pampa waiting to be explored. Visit our hiking page to find out more about the full options available.
Our combination trips allow you to see Torres del Paine and also explore a little wider. Prepare for your Circuit Trek by climbing volcanoes in the Lake District, or balance out the busy national park with a few weeks in the wild, remote Dientes range.
What Our Customers Think of The O Circuit Trek
The O Circuit Trek trips scored 4.2/5 from 204 reviews
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