Introduction
Torres del Paine is Chile's finest national park, noted for its lakes, waterfalls, forests, glaciers and rocky peaks, and the majestic 2,800-metre granite spires that give the park its name. The 'Towers of Paine' comprises three stunning rock faces on the Paine massif, an eastern spur of the Andes that rises up dramatically from the Patagonian pampas. They're flanked on one side by the 3,050-metre Paine Grande, the region's highest peak.
The Torres del Paine National Park is one of Chile's standout natural attractions, usually accessed from Puerto Natales, a couple of hours to the south by road. Its stunning terrain attracts hikers and walkers from all over the world, and there are well-marked walking trails to follow, and accommodation at campsites and permanent refugios along the trails.
El Circuito and The W are the two best-known trekking routes, both of which take around five days to complete and take in some of Patagonia's most stunning scenery. The wildlife here is also pretty special, with Andean condors, rheas, flamingos and guanacos among the animals that can be seen.
But, despite its wild landscapes, there's no need to rough it. Accommodation here ranges from eco-conscious glampsites to homely estancias and designer lodges replete with floor-to-ceiling glass and luxurious spas.
