Hiking in Torres del Paine
World class hiking and trekking awaits in Torres del Paine National Park. From the iconic W Trek to the park’s most hidden corners, each valley, peak and pass is a treasure.
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Why kayak in Torres del Paine?
- Follow an intricate network of rivers, lakes and channels, to experience the national park from the waterline
- Camp in some of the park's most secluded campsites next to rivers and the sound of calving glaciers
- Paddle between icebergs and reach out from your kayak to touch ice thousands of years old
- Float past the majestic Paine Massif, admiring the views splashes of your paddles breaking the silence.
- Drift down peppermint-blue glacial rivers to the dark waters of the Last Hope Sound
Kayaking on River Grey
Approaching icebergs on Lago Grey
Kayak briefing on Lago Grey
Kayaking beneath the Paine Massif
Kayaking at the Serrano Glacier
Preparing to kayak on the Serrano River
Where to kayak in Torres del Paine
Lago Grey
Kayaking excursions on Lago Grey are the perfect option for adventurous beginners, but are equally great for experienced paddlers. By approaching Glacier Grey from the water they give a brand new take on one of the classic legs of the W Trek and O Circuit.
From Refugio Grey, kayakers set out for the twin tongues of Glacier Grey as they snake their way into the waters of Lago Grey. 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.
Kayakaing on Lago Grey
Serrano River
The Serrano River is one of the best places to kayak in Torres del Paine. Setting out downstream, kayaking trips paddle right up to the impressive Serrano Glacier, before camping out on the banks of the river and falling asleep to the sound of ice calving into the water. The trip ends in the waters of Last Hope Sound, which connects the waterways of the park to Puerto Natales.
Serrano Rover kayaking is suitable for active travellers of all abilities. Two and three day trips make this an easy add-on to time spent hiking in the park.
More experienced kayakers can add more challenging stretches, paddling up some of the tributaries of the river, such as the Geike and Tyndall.
Kayaking on the Serrano River
Swoop says
Paddling past chunks of ice calved straight from a glacier when you're surrounded by mountains is such a surreal experience. Sitting on the waterline, you feel so tiny and humble against the landscape.
Felipe Cruzat Patagonia Specialist
What our travellers think of kayaking in Torres del Paine
Kayaking in Torres del Paine trips scored 4.4/5 from 80 reviews
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!
Travelled: January 2017
Mary - South Dakota
Kayaking in Torres del Paine: FAQs
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Who is kayaking in Torres del Paine aimed at?
Kayaking is popular with visitors to Torres del Paine of all ages.
Although no experience is needed, you must be in reasonably good physical condition and be able to swim. The Lago Grey paddle is particular well-suited for beginner paddlers.
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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How much experience do I need to kayak in Torres del Paine
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.
Shorter trips such as Lago Grey suitable for beginners, but even the longer trips down the Serrano River involve paddling with the current rather than against it. 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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Where do we stay on the multi-day kayaking trips?
Many of the multi-day kayak trips include staying in campsites or 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?
Absolutely. 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 to bring any specialist 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.
Explore more of Torres del Paine
Horse Riding in Torres del Paine
Enjoy day rides or longer cross country treks in the saddle, embracing Patagonia’s horseback gaucho culture under the shadow of Torres del Paine’s mile-high granite peaks.
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Multi-activity adventures in Torres del Paine
Torres del Paine Torres del Paine offers enormous scope for a host of outdoor adventure activities, which can be combined to make the perfect trip for you.
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Mountain Biking in Torres del Paine
Mountain biking is a great way to explore the far corners of Torres del Paine, from day rides to multi-day trips along the back trails to the famous Towers.
Discover MoreReady to plan your Patagonia adventure?
1. Listen
We'll spend some time listening to your aspirations, then discuss the kind of experience that might suit you.
2. Match
Next we'll discuss the options, shortlist the best trips for you and present you our impartial recommendations.
3. Reserve
We'll place a 24 hour hold on your preferred option - without obligation - whilst we talk through the details.