Chile Patagonia Torres del Paine O Circuit Trek Tour
The Original Torres del Paine Adventure
MT Sobek didn't just follow the O Circuit—we pioneered it. In 1985, Mountain Travel co-founder Leo LeBon trekked the full circular route alongside park ranger Pepe Alarcon, then launched the first commercial trekking expedition to circumnavigate the Paine Massif in 1987, venturing into the then-inaccessible backside long before the route became one of Patagonia's most iconic treks. That same pioneering spirit defines our journey today. Circle the massif, hiking beneath soaring granite spires, marveling at remote lakes at the foot of the Dickson and Los Perros glaciers, and taking on the legendary John Garner Pass for phenomenal views over the 17-mile-long Grey Glacier. Trace the W Route into the glacial amphitheater of the French Valley, then cap the adventure with sunrise at the Base of the Towers—an unforgettable Patagonian scene. MT Sobek's expert trekking guides, porter support, and seamless logistics let you focus fully on the trail, while reserved stays at the best camps and refugios keep you comfortable in the heart of the wilderness.
MT Sobek didn't just follow the O Circuit—we pioneered it. In 1985, Mountain Travel co-founder Leo LeBon trekked the full circular route alongside park ranger Pepe Alarcon, then launched the first commercial trekking expedition to circumnavigate the Paine Massif in 1987, venturing into the then-inaccessible backside long before the route became one of Patagonia's most iconic treks. That same pioneering spirit defines our journey today. Circle the massif, hiking beneath soaring granite spires, marveling at remote lakes at the foot of the Dickson and Los Perros glaciers, and taking on the legendary John Garner Pass for phenomenal views over the 17-mile-long Grey Glacier. Trace the W Route into the glacial amphitheater of the French Valley, then cap the adventure with sunrise at the Base of the Towers—an unforgettable Patagonian scene. MT Sobek's expert trekking guides, porter support, and seamless logistics let you focus fully on the trail, while reserved stays at the best camps and refugios keep you comfortable in the heart of the wilderness.
Make a complete circuit of the Paine Massif including the famous W Trek, and catch the sunrise at the Base of the Towers
[Description] => Make a complete circuit of the Paine Massif including the famous W Trek, and catch the sunrise at the Base of the Towers
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Hike along the enormous Grey Glacier, over five miles across and 17 miles long, after summiting historic John Garner Pass
[Description] => Hike along the enormous Grey Glacier, over five miles across and 17 miles long, after summiting historic John Garner Pass
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Trek the O with the company that pioneered the route and helped define the trekking industry in Torres del Paine
Arrive in Puerto Natales, where you will be met at Teniente Julio Gallardo Airport and transferred to your hotel. Depending on when you arrive, you may want to stroll along the waterfront, keeping an eye out for the cormorants that frequent the wooden dock posts on Seno Ultima Esperanza (Last Hope Sound). Meet up with the group and your guides for an early evening welcome dinner and discussion of your O Circuit adventure!
Accommodation: Remota Patagonia Lodge
Transportation: 20-minute private van transfer
Meals: Dinner
Travel to Torres del Paine
Day 2
Spot guanacos on golden plains under wide-open skies as you travel toward Torres del Paine National Park. Head out on your first hike, a hidden gem and an excellent introduction to the park. Begin at a classic estancia (cattle ranch) and wind along jewel-toned lagoons and through lenga and coigue forests, watching for wildlife and birds. Climb until the trail opens to gorgeous 360-degree views across glacial waterways with snow-dusted peaks in the distance. Back at the hotel, pack your daypack plus a provided 15L stuff sack for the trek—the rest of your luggage will be secured at the hotel until your return.
Accommodation: Hotel Las Torres-Torres del Paine National Park
Activity: 4-5 hours/up to 9 miles hiking with 1,312' elevation gain (may be shorter depending on weather)
Transportation: 2-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Begin O Circuit & Hike to Seron Camp
Day 3
Departing from Las Torres trailhead, begin your epic trek circumnavigating the Paine Massif, which towers above you as you hit the trail. Ascend gradually through grasslands and lenga forests, where sightings of guanacos and birdlife are common. As you travel further into “the backside” of the massif, the windswept landscape grows wilder, and the trail opens onto sweeping views of the Paine River zigzagging across the valley floor. Cross wooden footbridges and walk through rippling grasses and wildflowers as you descend. Reaching the riverbank, you can see its milky green glacier-fed water up close. Continue the last stretch to Seron Camp, the first leg of your O Circuit journey completed.
Accommodation: Camp Seron
Activity: 4-5 hours/9 miles hiking with 1,083' elevation gain and 1,742' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy Epic Patagonian Views on the Trail to Lake Dickson
Day 4
Journey deeper into Torres del Paine, reaching the remote northern section of the park and some of its most beautiful scenery. Hike through wildflower meadows and rolling hills, hugging the course of the Paine River as the breathtaking Patagonian landscape unfolds. The view of Lake Paine’s opal waters against distant peaks is sublime. Climb further and cross marshland boardwalks, catching your first view of Lake Dickson—another showstopper—your camp is visible on a peninsula as Mount Dickson and its glacier soar above.
Accommodation: Refugio Dickson
Activity: 6-8 hours/11.5 miles hiking with 1,175' elevation gain and 978' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike to Spectacular Los Perros Glacier
Day 5
Enter dense beech forest, climbing through its emerald light, colonnaded by mossy trunks, and immersed in fern-covered boulders and berry bushes. The trail rises steadily, revealing glimpses of distant glaciers spilling down toward the valley below. Follow the roaring Los Perros River, its icy waters carving a path through the forest, crisscrossing wooden bridges deep into the wilderness. Emerging onto the moraine, magnificent Los Perros Glacier hangs dramatically from a cliff, its waters surging down to the lake below. Cross the moraine and follow the river to your camp, tucked into an old-growth forest.
Accommodation: Camp Los Perros
Activity: 5-6 hours/8 miles hiking with 1,680' elevation gain and 528' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Summit John Garner Pass & Marvel at Grey Glacier
Day 6
Get ready for the most challenging climb of the Circuit through some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in Torres del Paine—including a bird’s-eye view of phenomenal Grey Glacier and the Southern Patagonia Ice Field! Ascend through the forest over rocky terrain. Above the tree line, traverse loose moraine in the deep saddle of a U-shaped glacial valley with serrated peaks swooping toward the sky on all sides. Follow the undulating contours of the John Garner pass until you reach its summit (4,000') where you are rewarded with an astonishing view over a vast expanse—17 miles long—of luminous blue rippled ice, Grey Glacier. Descend alongside the glacier into the forest, crossing a series of suspension bridges over dramatic river gorges as the opaque aqua-gray surface of Lago Grey and the terminus of the massive glacier come into view. An incredible day on the trail!
Accommodation: Refugio Grey
Activity: 8-10 hours/11 miles hiking with 1,970' elevation gain & 3,940' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore Enchanting Grey Glacier & Lago Grey
Day 7
After the big effort yesterday, enjoy a low-key rest day or set out for more adventures. Grey Glacier is Torres del Paine’s largest, its miles of blue ice abruptly stopping at three sheer faces, each calving otherworldly icebergs into the lake. Stretch your legs on an easy hike with excellent views of Grey Glacier and Lago Grey. The afternoon is free to relax and explore the black pebble shores of the lake on your own. You can choose to kayak amid the floating ice as the glacier’s faces tower, or hike on top of its craggy surface. Both options are at extra cost.
Accommodation: Refugio Grey
Activity: 2 hours/4 miles hiking with minimal elevation gain & loss; optional kayaking or glacier hike at additional cost
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Begin the W Trek with a Hike to Paine Grande
Day 8
The O Circuit transitions into the W Trek today, beginning with an ascent along the length of stately Lago Grey through a ghostly forest of weathered trunks left by fires a decade ago, then passing under leafy trees that escaped the blaze. Pause to take your last sweeping views of the lake and the magnificent Grey Glacier. Turning inland closer to the flanks of Cerro Paine Grande, wind through rolling terrain studded with large blocks of natural granite and striated rocky cliffs. Descend into the valley with gorgeous views of cerulean Lago Pehoe and the jagged peaks of the massif reaching into the clouds. Your refugio sits on the shores of this stunning lake.
Accommodation: Refugio Paine Grande
Activity: 4 hours/7.5 miles hiking with 1,200' elevation gain & 1,200' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Experience the Astounding French Valley
Day 9
Hike into the heart of the Paine Massif for one of the most iconic views in the park—the magnificent French Valley. Begin with spectacular views of turquoise Lago Skottsberg, then start to climb. The trail twists through forest and scrambles over rocks, passing the impressive French Glacier with its thunderous calving, and below the jagged peaks called Cuernos del Paine (horns of Paine), a geological wonder of pale towers capped with dark spires. The view widens expansively with peaks towering all around you in a jaw-dropping cirque at the Mirador Britanico. The 360-degree views are absolutely astonishing here. Return to the base of the valley and hike to remote cabins below the Cuernos, a great spot to see the sunset light up the horn-shaped peaks.
Accommodation: Cabanas de los Cuernos
Activity: 9-10 hours/12 miles hiking with 2,800' elevation gain & 2,800' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Behold the Cuernos del Paine
Day 10
Set out along the shores of Lago Nordenskjold, where turquoise waters lap against pebbled shoreline and the cuernos rise in dramatic formation above. The trail rolls gently through forest and open terrain, offering ever-changing perspectives of the massif and its incredible spires. Savor your last look at the cuernos before turning inland to the Ascencio Valley. The landscape shifts into a steeply sloped V-shaped valley with a silvery glacial river barreling along its base. The trail hugs the mountainside with dazzling alpine views as you climb toward your destination, Chileno—a strategic stopping point for tomorrow’s early ascent to the iconic Towers!
Accommodation: Camp Chileno
Activity: 5 hours/8.5 miles hiking with 1,148' elevation gain & 2,352' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Catch the Sunrise at the Base of the Torres del Paine
Day 11
Before dawn, set out with headlamps glowing for your final ascent to the Base of the Towers and the grand finale of the O Circuit. Pass through the forest and over rocky moraine, then push upward over switchbacks and boulders, scrambling toward the summit as first light begins to break. Arrive at the edge of a glacial lake just as sunrise ignites the three iconic towers in brilliant color. After soaking in the views, descend back through the valley to the Las Torres trailhead, closing the circle of your circumnavigation of the Paine Massif. Transfer to Puerto Natales, where a celebratory dinner marks the end of your Patagonian adventure.
Accommodation: Remota Patagonia Lodge
Activity: 7 hours/10 miles hiking with 2,300' elevation gain & 3,200' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Depart from Puerto Natales
Day 12
After breakfast, transfer to the airport in Puerto Natales for your onward journey, carrying with you the memories of Patagonia’s wild beauty and rewarding days spent on the trail, having now completed the O Circuit.
Few companies operate the full circuit, and we are proud to have pioneered the route, leading our first group of adventurers around the massif in the 1980s.
Trek the O with reservations at the best lodging options on the route and porters to carry your gear, making this challenging trek one step easier.
We work with expert local guides who are truly the best in Patagonia, keeping you safe and supported throughout your exhilarating wilderness adventure.
Accommodations: Three nights of this trip are spent camping in tents, four at simple mountain dormitories (refugios), and one at wilderness cabins. These accommodations have shared bathroom facilities, most with hot showers.
Dates & Prices
Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.
The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates youโll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.
Gather your favorite travel companionsโfamily, friends, colleagues, or clubโand enjoy an exclusive departure thatโs easy to book and completely unforgettable.
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Rodrigo B.
โRoโ was born in the Last Hope Province of Chile and grew up in Patagonia, where he developed a deep love for the outdoors. He has guided in Patagonia and Canada for more than 15 years, and is an accomplished hiker, kayaker, mountaineer, and photographerโwith a keen eye for capturing the natural beauty of Patagonia. He is a certified Mountain guide and kayak instructor and has completed Wilderness Emergency Responder & Medical; (WFR NOLS-EASPA). Ro speaks English, Spanish, and conversational French.
Sergio B.
"TC" was born in Punta Arenas and grew up in Tierra del Fuego, where he developed his love for the outdoors. He studied psychology at La Plata University in Buenos Aires and has a degree in Patagonia Biodiversity from Magallanes University. With more than 10 years of experience, his explorer's spirit has also taken him to nearly every continent. He is an excellent ambassador of his country and its culture. TC's enthusiasm and sense of adventure are absolutely contagious, and we know you'll be captivated by his warm smile!
Andre L.
Andrรฉ is an accomplished mountaineer who has dedicated over 25 years to climbing and exploring the Peruvian and Patagonian Andes ranges. He grew up in central Chile and fell in love with Patagonia at first sight and made it his home for 20 years before recently moving to Chile's Araucania region. In over ten mountain expeditions in Patagonia, he accomplished many first ascents, and has climbed the Paine towers in Chile and Alpamayo in Peru. A very enthusiastic guide, Andrรฉโs love for nature and respect for the mountains is infectious to all who travel with him.
Arrive in Puerto Natales, where you will be met at Teniente Julio Gallardo Airport and transferred to your hotel. Depending on when you arrive, you may want to stroll along the waterfront, keeping an eye out for the cormorants that frequent the wooden dock posts on Seno Ultima Esperanza (Last Hope Sound). Meet up with the group and your guides for an early evening welcome dinner and discussion of your O Circuit adventure!
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Departing from Las Torres trailhead, begin your epic trek circumnavigating the Paine Massif, which towers above you as you hit the trail. Ascend gradually through grasslands and lenga forests, where sightings of guanacos and birdlife are common. As you travel further into “the backside” of the massif, the windswept landscape grows wilder, and the trail opens onto sweeping views of the Paine River zigzagging across the valley floor. Cross wooden footbridges and walk through rippling grasses and wildflowers as you descend. Reaching the riverbank, you can see its milky green glacier-fed water up close. Continue the last stretch to Seron Camp, the first leg of your O Circuit journey completed.
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Journey deeper into Torres del Paine, reaching the remote northern section of the park and some of its most beautiful scenery. Hike through wildflower meadows and rolling hills, hugging the course of the Paine River as the breathtaking Patagonian landscape unfolds. The view of Lake Paine’s opal waters against distant peaks is sublime. Climb further and cross marshland boardwalks, catching your first view of Lake Dickson—another showstopper—your camp is visible on a peninsula as Mount Dickson and its glacier soar above.
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Enter dense beech forest, climbing through its emerald light, colonnaded by mossy trunks, and immersed in fern-covered boulders and berry bushes. The trail rises steadily, revealing glimpses of distant glaciers spilling down toward the valley below. Follow the roaring Los Perros River, its icy waters carving a path through the forest, crisscrossing wooden bridges deep into the wilderness. Emerging onto the moraine, magnificent Los Perros Glacier hangs dramatically from a cliff, its waters surging down to the lake below. Cross the moraine and follow the river to your camp, tucked into an old-growth forest.
Get ready for the most challenging climb of the Circuit through some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in Torres del Paine—including a bird’s-eye view of phenomenal Grey Glacier and the Southern Patagonia Ice Field! Ascend through the forest over rocky terrain. Above the tree line, traverse loose moraine in the deep saddle of a U-shaped glacial valley with serrated peaks swooping toward the sky on all sides. Follow the undulating contours of the John Garner pass until you reach its summit (4,000\') where you are rewarded with an astonishing view over a vast expanse—17 miles long—of luminous blue rippled ice, Grey Glacier. Descend alongside the glacier into the forest, crossing a series of suspension bridges over dramatic river gorges as the opaque aqua-gray surface of Lago Grey and the terminus of the massive glacier come into view. An incredible day on the trail!
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Hike into the heart of the Paine Massif for one of the most iconic views in the park—the magnificent French Valley. Begin with spectacular views of turquoise Lago Skottsberg, then start to climb. The trail twists through forest and scrambles over rocks, passing the impressive French Glacier with its thunderous calving, and below the jagged peaks called Cuernos del Paine (horns of Paine), a geological wonder of pale towers capped with dark spires. The view widens expansively with peaks towering all around you in a jaw-dropping cirque at the Mirador Britanico. The 360-degree views are absolutely astonishing here. Return to the base of the valley and hike to remote cabins below the Cuernos, a great spot to see the sunset light up the horn-shaped peaks.
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Before dawn, set out with headlamps glowing for your final ascent to the Base of the Towers and the grand finale of the O Circuit. Pass through the forest and over rocky moraine, then push upward over switchbacks and boulders, scrambling toward the summit as first light begins to break. Arrive at the edge of a glacial lake just as sunrise ignites the three iconic towers in brilliant color. After soaking in the views, descend back through the valley to the Las Torres trailhead, closing the circle of your circumnavigation of the Paine Massif. Transfer to Puerto Natales, where a celebratory dinner marks the end of your Patagonian adventure.
After breakfast, transfer to the airport in Puerto Natales for your onward journey, carrying with you the memories of Patagonia’s wild beauty and rewarding days spent on the trail, having now completed the O Circuit.
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[ActivityHighlight] => This trip is for experienced hikers seeking a higher level of physical challenge. Daily hikes of up to 10 hours include up to 2,800\' elevation gains and up to 3,940\' elevation losses. Strong winds are common and the weather can change drastically. The back-to-back days and challenging terrain combined with rustic lodging can affect both body and morale. Previous multi-day hiking experience, as well as a completed physician\'s certificate, is required.
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Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 5. This trip is for experienced hikers seeking a higher level of physical challenge. Daily hikes of up to 10 hours include up to 2,800' elevation gains and up to 3,940' elevation losses. Strong winds are common and the weather can change drastically. The back-to-back days and challenging terrain combined with rustic lodging can affect both body and morale. Previous multi-day hiking experience, as well as a completed physician's certificate, is required. Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 2
4-5 hours/up to 9 miles hiking with 1,312' elevation gain (may be shorter depending on weather)
Day 3
4-5 hours/9 miles hiking with 1,083' elevation gain and 1,742' elevation loss
Day 4
6-8 hours/11.5 miles hiking with 1,175' elevation gain and 978' elevation loss
Day 5
5-6 hours/8 miles hiking with 1,680' elevation gain and 528' elevation loss
Day 6
8-10 hours/11 miles hiking with 1,970' elevation gain & 3,940' elevation loss
Day 7
2 hours/4 miles hiking with minimal elevation gain & loss; optional kayaking or glacier hike at additional cost
Day 8
4 hours/7.5 miles hiking with 1,200' elevation gain & 1,200' elevation loss
Day 9
9-10 hours/12 miles hiking with 2,800' elevation gain & 2,800' elevation loss
Day 10
5 hours/8.5 miles hiking with 1,148' elevation gain & 2,352' elevation loss
Day 11
7 hours/10 miles hiking with 2,300' elevation gain & 3,200' elevation loss
*Mileage and elevation change information is approximate and may vary slightly depending on trail conditions, weather, and route adjustments, and the guideโs discretion.
Accommodations
3 nights of remote tent camping, 4 nights at simple mountain dormitories, and one night at scenic cabins, bookended by 3 nights at comfortable hotels.
The simple, comfortable rooms come equipped with all the essentials, and have windows showcasing the awe-inspiring surroundings. Because of its remote location, the hotel has a small shop that provides some trekking equipment, snacks and toiletries. The on-site restaurant serves food that is authentic to the Patagonia region, featuring organic produce and beer from their own microbrewery.
These eight charming cabins, located at the base of the "horns" (Cuernos del Paine) at the heart of the W Route, offer spectacular views of Los Cuernos - especially at sunset, when the sun hits the horns. After trekking through Torres del Paine, you'll undoubtedly be ready to recharge your battery with a warm meal and a good night's sleep in a real bed, while all others nearby have to camp to enjoy this privileged location.
Located on the banks of Pehoe Lake, this remote mountain lodge is an ideal launch point for hiking trails to Torres del Paine's French Valley and Grey Glacier. The dormitory rooms have comfortable bunks, as well as drawers to put away gear and a safety box if required. The on-site restaurant offers American cuisine, and the bar is a great place to exchange stories with fellow travelers.
Remota Patagonia Lodge is located on the Last Hope Sound, just a short walk from the charming town of Puerto Natales in southern Chile. Designed by award-winning architect German del Sol, the innovative structure was inspired by the old Patagonian shearing sheds tilted by the wind and prioritizes spectacular views throughout. The comfortable, modern guest rooms all feature views of the mountains, the sound, and the glaciers and are decorated with local wood accents and the finest Peruvian textiles. The hotel also features a heated pool, sauna, souvenir shop, bar, and an onsite restaurant featuring local seafood, exotic meats, local organic vegetables, and Chilean wines.
Camp Seron is the first campsite reached on the O Circuit Trek, reached by hiking through an ancient forest of lenga trees and across rivers, with classic Patagonian landscapes along the way. Premium camping features large 2-person tents set up on a raised platform 5.2 feet off the ground, accessed by a sturdy metal ladder. Sleeping bag, high-density foam mat, and pillow are provided. There is a dining room, bar, Wi-Fi, and shared bathrooms with hot showers.
Refugio Dickson is the gateway to the northern sector of Torres del Paine National Park, with an exceptional location on the edge of Lake Dickson. Enjoy views of the Dickson Glacier, along with the Tridente, Escudo, Cabeza del Indio, and Los Gemelos mountains, among others. The dormitory rooms have comfortable bunks sleeping 4-6 guests each (sharing only with fellow MT Sobek group members), with linens, pillow, and blanket. Alternately, guests can choose to sleep in a basic tent with sleeping bag and sleeping pad. There are shared bathrooms (separate for men and women), hot showers, and a bar and restaurant. The dormitories do not have heating; however, slow-burning wood is available in the common areas.
Located deep within Torres del Paine National Park, amid a forest of lenga and coigüe trees, Camp Los Perros is one of the most remote spots on the Paine Massif Circuit, a rest stop before tackling the famous and challenging John Gardner Pass. Sleep in a basic tent with sleeping bag and sleeping pad provided. There are shared bathrooms (separate for men and women) and cold water showers. MT Sobek porter staff prepare hearty meals to fuel you for the continuing trek. A minimarket has a limited assortment of general supplies, drinks, chocolate, energy bars, and cookies available to purchase. There is no WiFi or cell service available at this remote camp.
Refugio Grey is the closest accommodations to Grey Glacier and a launch point for hiking excursions on the glacier, kayaking and hiking to the suspension bridges with panoramic views of Campos de Hielo Sur. The dormitory rooms have comfortable bunks sleeping 4-6 guests each (sharing only with fellow MT Sobek group members), with linens, pillow, and blanket. Alternately, guests can choose to sleep in a basic tent with sleeping bag and sleeping pad. There are shared bathrooms (separate for men and women), hot showers, and a bar and restaurant. The rooms are not heated. The corridors and common areas are heated with slow combustion firewood. WiFi is available for a fee.
Camp Chileno is the closest campsite to the Base of the Towers, perfect for those who want to wake up before sunrise to hike to this iconic viewpoint in time to see the sunrise hit the towers. Premium camping features large 2-person tents set up on a raised platform 5.2 feet off the ground, accessed by a sturdy metal ladder. Sleeping bag, high-density foam mat, and pillow are provided. There is a dining room, bar, and shared bathrooms with hot showers.
Weather
Expect extreme weather conditions that can change from one moment to the next. Be prepared for everything, especially strong winds, sun, or even snow.
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Torres Del Paine National Park
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Torres Del Paine National Park
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FAQs
Do I have to carry my own gear?
This trek is supported by porters who transport overnight necessities (which must fit into a provided 15-liter stuff sack). Your larger luggage will be kept in secure storage until you arrive back at Remota Patagonia Lodge after the O Trek. Sleeping bags and sleeping pads are provided at the campsites, and linens and comforters are provided at all the refugios and at the mountain cabins. All you'll need to hike with is a daypack for your water bottles/hydration pack, warm jacket, rain gear, and other personal items. Please note that porters will not carry glass, books, or electronic devices.
What are the camps and refugios like on the O Circuit and are there hot showers?
You will be staying in the best available accommodation throughout the trip. For all eight nights on the O Circuit trek, you will share the bathroom facilities (separate men’s and women’s facilities). Under normal circumstances, you will have hot water both in the evenings and early mornings. There are three nights of camping in double tents; sleeping bags and sleeping pads are provided. For two of the three camping nights, the tents are on raised platforms five feet off the ground. There are four nights at simple mountain dormitories, sharing bunkbed rooms between four to six MT Sobek guests on three nights, and in private bunkbed rooms for one night (note that there is the option to sleep in a tent, if preferred over sharing a bunkbed rooms). The one night at scenic cabins features private cabins for every one to two guests, with two twin beds; single guests may need to share with another same-gender single MT Sobek guest. For the two nights before and one night after the O Circuit trek, you’ll stay at comfortable, well-located hotels with private en-suite bathrooms.
Are sleeping bags provided for camping nights?
Yes, sleeping bags are provided for camping nights, and are cleaned daily between users. We recommend you bring your own sleeping bag liner, which can be packed into the 15-liter stuff sack that we provide, and carried by the porters.
Will I have electricity throughout the trip?
The hotels at the start and end of the trip have electricity. Note that the electricity supply at the campsites, refugios, and mountain cabins on the O Circuit is generator-driven and may be shut off from midnight to 6:00 am.
How many guides will hike with us on the O Circuit?
Group sizes of four to five guests will have one experienced hiking guide. With six or more guests, there will be two experienced hiking guides. Additionally, you'll have a porter team.
Can I see the Southern Patagonia Ice Field from the O Circuit Trek?
Yes, weather conditions permitting, you will have a breathtaking view from the John Garner Pass out over the southernmost sector of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. The largest temperate ice sheet in the Southern Hemisphere, the Patagonian Ice Field is draped over the southern Andes Mountains, their jagged peaks piercing the ice and snow. During the trek you'll also see glaciers fed by the ice field, including the Dickson Glacier in the remote northern reaches of Torres del Paine, and enormous Grey Glacier.