Views from the lookout point at the French Valley

Hike Torres del Paine National Park - The French Valley

Overview

This excursion involves a visit to one of many iconic areas of Torres del Paine National Park: The French Valley. Led by an expert guide the adventure begins at the Pudeto Ranger Station, which is located on the shore of Lake Pehoé, which sits beside Lago Grey and is fed by the Paine River. From here it's a half-hour catamaran cruise across the lake where the trailhead begins for an unforgettable wilderness trek.

The first part of the trail is relatively flat and leads along the north side of Lago Skottsberg to Refugio Italiano, which is located at the bottom of the French Valley. After breaking for water and snacks, the trail continues deeper into the French Valley along a steep trail through lenga forest. Roughly 1.5 miles (2.5 km) from Italiano, there's a viewpoint near the iconic "Horns of Paine" landmark (the three granite peaks of the Paine Massif) that affords wide vistas of the French Glacier hanging down from Mount Paine Grande.

Itineraries with Hike Torres del Paine National Park - The French Valley

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'.

Southern Patagonia - 14 Days

Explore the best sites of Southern Patagonia (both countries) on this two-week adventure. First, there's Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina Patagonia for a boat trip to Perito Moreno Glacier. Next is Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia for three days of guided hikes. Head back across the border to Ushuaia—the southernmost city in the world—for ice trekking and free time to see the penguins. 

Patagonia's Best Day Hikes - 14 Days

If you love hiking, this active 14-day trip highlights Patagonia's best trails with some of the most spectacular scenery in the world (thanks to two UNESCO-listed parks). Start off in Argentine Patagonia for Los Glaciares National Park—home to 13 glaciers and the iconic Mt. Fitz Roy. Then head across the border to Torres del Paine National Park, dominated by snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and rare wildlife.

Ultimate Chilean Patagonia Adventure - 12 Days

Experience the best of Chilean Patagonia on this epic 12-day adventure. Take some time to sightsee in the capital city of Santiago at the start of the trip, then travel to the port city of Puerto Natales. You'll ride horses at a remote Patagonian ranch and boat on a pristine fjord before entering Torres del Paine National Park. Spend the next five days exploring the park's spectacular scenery on day hikes and boat tours, then wrap up the itinerary with a day of kayaking and bird-watching on the Eberhard Fjord.

Torres del Paine & Última Esperanza - 12 Days

Few places in the world are more coveted as a trekking destination than Torres del Paine National Park. Located in Chilean Patagonia, this protected mountain wilderness is open to anyone looking for outdoor adventure. Accomplish the highlights on this 12-day trip, including waterfalls, glaciers, and enormous peaks. You'll also visit Última Esperanza Sound for fjord tours, kayaking, and a cave with 11,000 years of history.

Patagonia Adventure for Couples - 15 Days

Explore Patagonia's most breathtaking sites at a relaxed pace while staying in comfortable accommodations on this 15-day itinerary. Kick off in Chile's capital before continuing south to Torres del Paine National Park for glaciers, turquoise lakes, and thrilling day hikes. Finish across the border in Argentine Patagonia for more glaciers and a secluded mountain lodge with a variety of outdoor activities, not to mention iconic views of Mt. Fitz Roy.

Torres del Paine & Ultima Esperanza Fjord - 11 Days

There are few places in the entire world more desirable as a trekking destination than Torres del Paine National Park. Located in Chilean Patagonia, this vast portion of unspoiled mountain wilderness is protected, safe from development and welcoming to anyone looking for outdoor adventure. This itinerary covers all the highlights of the park, including visits to its mountain peaks, lakes, glaciers, and even a kayak outing on a nearby fjord. What could be better?