Why kayak in Torres del Paine?
Around the famous peaks run an intricate network of glacial rivers, lakes and channels. Descending into these waterways, you can escape the crowds of the W Trek and drink in the views in solitude, with only the small splashes of your paddles breaking the silence.
- Reach out and touch icebergs from your kayak
- Camp in some of the park's most secluded campsites next to rivers and calving glaciers
- Paddle past the majestic Paine massif, and admire the views from the tranquility and stillness of the water
- Drift down peppermint-blue glacial rivers and the dark waters of the sound
Where to kayak
Lago Grey
The perfect kayak for adventurous beginners. Half day kayaking excursions on Lago Grey run directly from Refugio Grey, a stop-off point for the W trek and Circuit trek. You'll paddle between the crystal blue icebergs as they float down the lake, so close you'll be able to reach out and touch them, before kayaking right up to the face of the glacier.
Serrano River
Rio Serrano runs along the border of the park and is undoubtedly one of the best places to kayak in Torres del Paine. Paddle the fast-flowing waters right up to the impressive hanging Serrano Glacier before camping out under the stars on the banks of the river, and eventually emerging in the Last Hope Sound, which connects the waterways of the park to the nearby town of Puerto Natales.
Kayak trips on the Rio Serrano are suitable for anyone who is active and keen to give it a try, with 2 and 3 day trips making it an easy add on to some hiking in the park.
More experienced kayakers can add more challenging stretches up some of the tributaries such as Geike and Tyndall.
What our customers think
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Kayaking down the Rio Serrano was the highlight - I truly felt like we were in the wilderness because we didn't see any other people!
Mary, South Dakota January 2017
Kayaking in Torres del Paine
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Who's it for?
Kayaking is popular with visitors to Patagonia of all ages. Although no experience is needed, you must be in reasonably good physical condition and obviously being able to swim is essential! Most operators run trips of groups of up to 12 people: you should expect people of different ages, nationalities and fitness levels.
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Where will I stay?
Many of the multi-day kayak trips include nights camping in campsites or staying in ranches along the route. Toilets are always available, but hot showers are a little more of a luxury and only available in some of the overnight stops, depending on the trip.
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Can I combine kayaking with something else?
Yes, it's easy to add on kayaking to your time trekking in Torres del Paine. This can be anything from adding a half day kayak on Lago Grey to your W trek, to spending a few days paddling down Rio Serrano after exploring some of the off-the-beaten-track trails in the national park.
For those who like trying a bit of everything, multi-activity trips combine kayaking, trekking, fishing, horse riding and ice climbing all in one trip.
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Do I need experience beforehand?
Training will take place during the trip to ensure that everyone is capable of using their kayak. Guides provide a demonstration and a safety talk before you enter the water. Some of the more challenging routes do require some technical experience, but many of the shorter trips are suitable for beginners. If you do want to arrive feeling more prepared, consider taking a lesson or spending a day on the water before you leave for your trip.
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Do I need any kit?
For shorter kayaking excursions all your kayaking and safety equipment will be provided, including specialist clothing. Most longer trips include all your kayaking and camping equipment, although some may require you to bring your own sleeping bag.
Hike and kayak
Hiking trips which include a one day or half day kayak
Multi-day kayaking trips
Multi-day kayaks down the Serrano River
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Ready to plan your Patagonia adventure?
Whatever your budget, group size, length of stay, preferred activity or appetite for adventure, we can help.