Pre-departure Information
Getting to and from your trip
We recommend flying to Puerto Natales and booking a hotel for the night before your first trek. There will likely be a briefing the afternoon before your trip starts so the earlier you can arrive and settle in the better.
A private transfer will pick you up early in the morning from your hotel and drive you to the Las Torres area (approx 1 hour).
We'd also recommend a night in Puerto Natales at the end of the itinerary and a transfer will take you there after hiking the Carretas Trail back.
Please let us know if you plan to travel to/from El Calafate, Punta Arenas or another location and we can help you with arrangements.
Packing List
Winter in Patagonia offers a unique experience with shorter days, dry cold, and the potential for ice and snow on trails. Dressing in layers is crucial for comfort and warmth while exploring the stunning landscapes.
Please wear sturdy hiking shoes and, if you are thinking of buying new ones, make sure to wear them beforehand. Read all our tips about what to pack.
You can store any kit you don't want to take on your hike at your hotel, or the office of our local partner. You can also rent gear for your trek, such as hiking boots, waterproofs and trekking poles, in Puerto Natales. We recommend the outdoor gear rental shop 'Rental Natales'.
Weather & Recommendations:
- Temperature Range: -10 to 10 Celsius
- Shorter days: Sunrise at 8:45 am, Sunset at 4:30 pm
- Stable Winter Weather: Clear skies, reduced winds (May-August)
- Trail Conditions: Possibility of icy and snowy terrain, slower pace
For Active Days:
- 35-40 Litre Backpack
- Waterproof & Broken-In Hiking Boots
- Synthetic Hiking Pants
- Waterproof Jacket & Pants (e.g., Gore-Tex)
- Thermal, Synthetic Quick-Drying Undershirts (e.g. Capilene)
- Fleece Jacket
- Fleece or Wool Buff or Scarf
- Fleece or Wool Hat with Ear-Cover
- Long Wool Blend Hiking Socks (e.g., Smartwool)
- Small Flashlight or Headlamp (with extra batteries)
- Waterproof/Fleece/Woolen Gloves
- Midweight to Heavyweight Hiking Socks (synthetic moisture-wicking)
- Gaiters
- Trekking Poles
- Sunglasses with Neck Strap
- UV Sun Protection (min. 30 SPF) for Face & Lips
- Refillable Water Bottle or Hydration System
Note: Water in Torres del Paine does not need filtering; reliable sources within the national park. And please remember your passport with PDI Entry Ticket.
Post-Excursion & Personal Items:
- Comfortable Clothes for Relaxing
- Comfortable Footwear for Travel & Lodgings (e.g., Crocs®)
- Sleepwear
- Change of Long Socks/Underwear
- Toiletries
- Alcohol Gel
- Personal Medical Kit
- Prescription medications, cold medicine, blister treatment (e.g., moleskin or second skin)
- Shower Towel (quick-drying recommended)
Optional:
- Sleeping Liner (Cocoon or similar)
- Reading Materials
- Binoculars
- Camera, Chargers, & Extra Batteries (Chile uses 220V and 2-pin plugs)
Your Accommodation
The dining room at Hotel Grey
Hotel Lago Grey - This ideally located hotel gives you the chance to see a crystal blue glacier and icebergs floating by.
Superior rooms: Floor-to-ceiling windows give these rooms the edge, creating a bright, spacious feel that continues in the large bathrooms. All rooms have heating and Wi-Fi, and the glass and wood partition to the bathroom allows you to continue watching the views while you shower.
Standard rooms: All the standard rooms have recently been upgraded, and are clean and modern. They look out onto beautiful garden scenery but lack the lake views available in Superior rooms.
Refugio Paine Grande - Based on the northern shore of Lake Pehoé, right next to the catamaran dock, this is the largest of all the refugios with enough beds for 100 hikers in dormitories of six and four people. This is arguably the most comfortable refugio in Torres del Paine with well-built bunkbeds, segregated showers, a mini-market, a bar and a large canteen-style restaurant that serves good meals.
There is no mobile/cell phone signal in Torres del Paine and very limited WiFi available during your time in the park.