At the base of Torres del Paine
At the base of Torres del Paine

Hike to the Base of the Paine Massif, Torres del Paine

Overview

One of the most popular hiking routes in all of Torres del Paine National Park is to the lookout at Base Torres, which sits at the foot of the iconic triple peaks of the Paine Massif. Although it can be completed in less than a day, this hike is strenuous and requires a good level of physical fitness. However, the stunning views at the base of the massif make it well worth the effort. 

The trekking route covers 11 miles (18 km) and lasts about nine hours. Every step of the way there's stunning views of rivers, native forest, mountain peaks, and green valleys. It's also common to spot local avian varieties, like condors and black eagles. 

The route begins at the Las Torres Hostel and leads over the Ascencio River, at which point the trail ascends about 1.5 miles (2.5 km) to a lookout featuring panoramic views of the valley below and the surrounding mountains. It continues through sections of lenga forest until the remaining 45-minute stretch, which is a steep ascent that involves a hard scramble over a moraine to the final path leading up to the lagoon and viewpoint. Here hikers are treated to the views of the Cuernos del Paine (Horns of Paine) jutting into the sky, and the whole scene makes for some incredible photos. After lingering at the base and enjoying a picnic lunch, it's time to descend back down, which takes about four hours.

Itineraries with Hike to the Base of the Paine Massif

Torres del Paine Express Trip - 5 Days

On this quick trip, you'll get to explore one of the most impressive landscapes on earth, Torres del Paine National Park. You'll enjoy an in-depth exploration of the park's natural beauty, including a hike to the base of the iconic towers and an up-close look at the majestic Grey Glacier during a boat tour.

Hiking in Patagonia - 15 Days

This self-guided and incredibly scenic trip highlights Patagonia's best trails on both sides of the border. Kick off in Argentina's Los Glaciares National Park, home of 13 glaciers and the iconic Mt. Fitz Roy. Next is Chile's Torres del Paine National Park for more jaw-dropping peaks, turquoise lakes, and rare wildlife. Finish back in Argentina for coastal trails and a taste of the world's 'southernmost city'.

Best of Southern Patagonia - 15 Days

This 15-day trip combines outdoor attractions around Chile and Argentina's spectacular far south, also known as Patagonia. You'll start with penguins, horses, and glaciers before entering Torres del Paine National Park for three days of guided tours. Then head across the border for Los Glaciares National Park, where you'll go ice trekking and partake in several jaw-dropping trails near Mount Fitz Roy.

Punta Arenas & Torres del Paine National Park - 7 Days

Begin your weeklong Patagonian journey in Chile's metropolitan capital city. Next, head south and walk with Magellanic penguins on Isla Magdalena. Top it off with a trip to Torres del Paine National Park. Here you'll be treated to breathtaking views of vast grasslands, glaciers, forests, and more. You'll even have the opportunity to hike to the base of the park's iconic towers.

Torres del Paine Experience - 6 Days

You don't need two full weeks to experience Chilean Patagonia. In fact, you can enjoy the major highlights in one national park: Torres del Paine. Not only is this one of the most famous trekking destinations in the world, but it's overflowing with snow-capped peaks, thundering waterfalls, and turquoise lakes. This quick six-day itinerary includes the best sites and treks in the park, and you'll kick off the adventure by exploring  Chile's capital of Santiago.

Los Glaciares & Torres del Paine - 8 Days

This active trip highlights two UNESCO-listed parks in South America with some of the most magnificent scenery in the world. Start off in Argentine Patagonia for several days in Los Glaciares National Park—home to a whopping 13 major glaciers and the iconic Mt. Fitz Roy. Next is Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia for snow-capped peaks, thundering waterfalls, and turquoise lakes. Kick off the adventure in Buenos Aires for a taste of big-city culture.

Discover Patagonia's Best Hiking Trails - 14 Days

This adventurous 14-day trip highlights Patagonia's best hiking trails! Explore some of the most spectacular scenery in the world, starting on the Argentine side, with a quick visit to Buenos Aires followed by several days in Los Glaciares National Park. Trek on a glacier and enjoy the trails around El Chaltén, the country's trekking capital, before crossing the border to Chile and Torres del Paine National Park. Discover the region's dramatic landscapes on day hikes, resting each night at lodgings in the park.

Chile Grand Tour: Santiago, Atacama, Torres del Paine & Easter Island - 14 Days

Discover the incredible diversity of Chile's landscapes on this action-packed two-week adventure. Get to know the vibrant capital of Santiago, then head into the arid and otherworldly environs of the Atacama Desert. Venture south to Patagonia to hike to the towering peaks of Torres del Paine National Park before flying across the South Pacific to explore the mysterious icons and windswept coastlines of Easter Island.

Outdoor Adventures in Patagonia's National Parks - 11 Days

Spot penguins in the wild, boat to a remote glacier, and hike through spectacular mountain scenery on this action-packed 11-day itinerary around Patagonia. After a day in Buenos Aires, fly to Ushuaia and explore Tierra del Fuego National Park. Then continue to El Calafate, the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park. Finally, cross the border to Chile to discover the natural wonders of Torres del Paine and Bernardo O'Higgins National Parks.

Adventure in Santiago & Torres del Paine National Park - 10 Days

Begin your journey in the metropolitan capital city of Santiago. Learn all about Chilean culture during your city tour and wine tasting, followed by a visit to the vibrant port cities of Valparaíso and Viña del Mar. Next, head south to Patagonia and walk with Magellanic penguins on Isla Magdalena. Top it all off with a trip to Torres del Paine National Park. Here, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of vast grasslands, glaciers, forests, and more. You'll even have the opportunity to hike to the base of the park's iconic towers.