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I’d always dreamed of exploring Patagonia, that wild, untamed corner of the world where jagged peaks meet sprawling plains and giant glaciers. So when I finally set off for Chilean Patagonia, the excitement was unreal.
Our itinerary was set: a journey from Santiago to Punta Arenas, then a 32-hour ferry ride to Puerto Williams—the southernmost town in the world. But as with all great adventures, plans change. Wild weather forced us to reroute, swapping the ferry for extra time in the wilderness of Torres del Paine. And while it wasn’t what I expected, this unexpected twist turned into one of the most incredible experiences of my life. Here’s what I learned from a week in Chilean Patagonia.
My Itinerary at a Glance
I was invited on this incredible trip by Chile’s national tourism board, SERNATUR (Servicio Nacional de Turismo), who organized a fantastic itinerary with seven other travel creators. They took us through some of Patagonia’s most stunning landscapes with local guides. In spite of weather-related challenges, they nailed it from start to finish!
- Day 1: Santiago – Kicked off the adventure with a night in Chile’s buzzing capital.
- Days 2-3: Punta Arenas – Spent two nights in this southern gateway, exploring the city and getting ready for the wild landscapes ahead.
- Days 4-6: Torres del Paine – Three unforgettable nights surrounded by Patagonia’s dramatic peaks, glaciers, and wildlife.
- Day 7: Puerto Natales – Spent a night in this charming town, soaking in the last bits of Patagonia’s beauty.
- Day 8: Santiago – Finished with one more night in Santiago, diving into sightseeing and local cuisine.
We were supposed to take a 32-hour ferry ride to Puerto Williams for three nights, but weather had other plans. I’ll break down each destination in more detail below!
The Journey to Chile
My adventure began in Santiago, Chile’s vibrant capital. Santiago hit me with a burst of history, culture, and energy all at once, with the majestic Andes serving as a stunning backdrop. After my long international flight, this bustling city of 7 million people gave me a jolt of energy before diving into Patagonia’s wild landscapes.
My trip coincided with the start of spring in the southern hemisphere. So I traded New England’s fall colors for Chile’s blossoming flowers. Santiago has several urban parks where I was able to do some grounding and get a taste of the nature here.
While our main goal was to reach Patagonia, I recommend spending some time here before heading south. Santiago offers a lot—whether it’s indulging in the local cuisine, exploring the historical sites, or wandering through its lively neighborhoods. I only had the chance to briefly explore the city, but even a quick stop before heading into the wilderness is worth it.
Here are a few things I learned about Chile that truly blew my mind:
- Chile is Long. Like, really long. Stretching over 2,600 miles from top to bottom, it covers an insane amount of geographical diversity. You’ve got the driest desert in the world (Atacama) up north, lush forests and volcanoes in the middle, and the icy fjords of Patagonia in the south.
- It’s Practically an Island. Chile’s natural borders make it feel like an island. To the west, you’ve got the Pacific Ocean. The massive Andes Mountains create a natural barrier to the east, and the northern desert seals it off from the rest of the continent. Then there’s Patagonia at the southern tip, where Antarctica’s icy winds make it feel like the edge of the world.
- Incredible Diversity. From the buzzing city life in Santiago to the extreme solitude in Patagonia, Chile offers a little bit of everything. It’s got the full South American experience packed into one country, from city vibes to untouched wilderness.
Punta Arenas: The Gateway to Patagonia
After a smooth flight from Santiago, we landed in Punta Arenas, the southernmost city on the mainland. It sits along the shores of the Strait of Magellan, the historic waterway that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. I spent two nights exploring this charming, windswept city, soaking in both its rich history and wild beauty.
Here are some of my fondest memories in Punta Arenas:
City Tour Highlights
We kicked things off with a city tour by van, which gave us a perfect overview of Punta Arenas. The wind and rain was absolutely crazy (gusts over 60mph), which set the scene for the wild weather to come. Here’s what we saw:
Museo Nao Victoria
Visiting the Museo Nao Victoria brought out my inner history nerd in the best way possible. Growing up, I loved learning about explorers, so seeing a full-scale replica of Magellan’s ship, the Nao Victoria, felt like stepping back in time.
Ferdinand Magellan was the Portuguese explorer who led the first expedition to circumnavigate the globe in the early 1500s, a feat that completely changed how we view the world. It’s incredible to think that this tiny ship sailed across the world’s most treacherous seas.
Additionally, there’s a replica of the HMS Beagle. This is the famed ship that carried Charles Darwin on his voyage of discovery, which significantly influenced his theory of evolution.
The museum is mostly outdoors, and on the day of our visit, the freezing rain and gusty winds really gave me a taste of Patagonia’s wild weather. It really made me appreciate just how tough these explorers must have been.
Cemetery of Punta Arenas
The Cemetery of Punta Arenas wasn’t something I expected to be so captivating, but walking through it felt like stepping into a beautifully preserved chapter of history.
Established in 1894, the cemetery is the final resting place for many of the region’s pioneers, European immigrants, and notable figures who helped shape Patagonia. The most famous mausoleum in the cemetery belongs to Sara Braun, one of the wealthiest women in Chile’s history.
The towering cypress trees lining the walkways and the intricate, ornate tombs give it a peaceful yet eerie vibe. It feels much more like an open-air museum than a graveyard.
Viewpoints of the Strait of Magellan
During the tour, we visited several viewpoints overlooking the legendary Strait of Magellan and even wandered along the beach there. The views of the water were spectacular. Though the wind and rain was intense!
The Strait of Magellan is one of the most legendary waterways in the world, and seeing it firsthand was surreal. This natural passage connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and for centuries, it was the only viable route to avoid the treacherous waters around Cape Horn.
Named after the explorer Ferdinand Magellan, who navigated it during his famous 1519-1522 expedition, the strait is known for its wild weather, unpredictable currents, and dense fog.
Fun fact: Before the construction of the Panama Canal, the Strait of Magellan was the main route for ships traveling between the two oceans. Its strategic importance meant that control over it was fiercely contested.
The Central Plaza
The Central Plaza in Punta Arenas, known as Plaza Muñoz Gamero, is the lively hub of the city. At its center stands a statue of Ferdinand Magellan, and legend has it, if you rub the foot of the statue, it guarantees a return to Patagonia.
Unfortunately, the plaza was covered in scaffolding during my visit (somehow, a car had driven straight through it and wrecked some of the walkways). If that’s not a sign that Punta Arenas has a wild side, I don’t know what is!
We stayed right across the street from the plaza at the Hotel Cabo de Hornos, giving us a front-row seat to the city’s bustling heart. Around the plaza, you’ll find historic mansions, government buildings, cozy cafés, and shops. I found it to be a perfect mix of old-world charm and modern-day life.
Mirador Cerro de La Cruz
The Mirador Cerro de la Cruz offers the best panoramic view of Punta Arenas, and standing up there reminded me so much of Reykjavík. The colorful rooftops, the sprawling city below, and the backdrop of the Strait of Magellan with the Andes in the distance…it was breathtaking.
Fun fact: on a clear day, you can even spot the infamous windswept land stretching toward Tierra del Fuego! Just be prepared for the wind—it’s no joke up there.
Mindful Hiking at Reserva Nacional Magallanes
The next day, we ventured to Reserva Nacional Magallanes, where we experienced something truly special—forest bathing and mindful hiking, led by EcoYoga Patagonia. The peacefulness of hiking through the dense forest, taking in the crisp air, and just being present was a game-changer. This experience was all about slowing down and connecting with nature, which is really important to me.
To make things even cooler, Eduardo and Miriam from EcoYoga Patagonia introduced us to PlantWave. This is a fascinating device that converts plant frequencies into music. Basically, it has a sensor that detects small changes in an organism’s electrical activity.
Listening to the plant’s “songs” was unlike anything I’d experienced before—completely mind-blowing. This contraption picks up people’s energy, too. We all took turns using the device…each person in our group had totally different sounds/rhythms, which was pretty cool!
Dolphin Spotting in the Strait of Magellan
On our final morning in Punta Arenas, we set off on a fast-paced dolphin boat tour with Kayak Agua Fresca KAF. The location they brought us to was remote and quiet, about 30 minutes from the city.
The highlight? Seeing the playful Chilean Dolphins, also known as White Belly Tuninas. These dolphins are some of the smallest in the world!
What made it even better was knowing that our tour was conducted in a way that respected the dolphins’ natural habitat, allowing us to get close without disturbing them. The guide used certain sounds to attract the dolphins, and they constantly observed their behavior to make sure we weren’t infringing on their territory. If the dolphins weren’t in the mood to play, we’d simply move to a different spot to avoid disturbing them. Luckily for us, these Chilean dolphins were curious and playful, leaping through the waves right next to the boat.
Where We Stayed in Punta Arenas
For our stay, the Cabo de Hornos Hotel was a gem—centrally located with cozy rooms, amazing food, and a welcoming vibe. It overlooks the main square and has stunning views of the surrounding cityscape.
When our ferry to Puerto Williams was canceled, our plans shifted, and we also spent a night at the Hotel Almasur Punta Arenas. This hotel was lovely as well, with a modern vibe and delicious food. Their pancake dessert at the hotel restaurant was out of this world! Both places made for a comfortable stay in the heart of Patagonia.
The Food Scene in Punta Arenas
The foodie experiences in Punta Arenas were next level! I really enjoyed dining at La Luna Restaurant (a great spot for local seafood) and Okusa Restaurant & Emporio, both offering delicious meals. And, of course, the hotel restaurants served up some excellent dishes as well.
Here are some of my favorite foods I tried in Punta Arenas:
Must-Try Dishes in Patagonia
- King Crab (Centolla) – This Patagonian delicacy is a seafood lover’s dream. Fresh, tender, and slightly sweet, it’s often served in a creamy sauce or simply steamed to perfection. This was my #1 favorite dish of the trip!
- Chupe de Centolla – A rich, cheesy casserole made with King Crab. It’s warm, comforting, and loaded with crab flavor.
- Pisco Sour – The iconic Chilean cocktail. It’s a refreshing mix of pisco (a local spirit), lemon juice, sugar, and egg white, topped with a dash of bitters. Perfect for winding down after a day of exploring, I had this basically every night!
- Pastel de Choclo – A Chilean classic, this dish is a sweet and savory casserole made with ground meat, corn, and often hard-boiled eggs and olives.
- Lomo a lo Pobre – A rich and indulgent dish, this features a steak topped with fried eggs, onions, and fries. It’s super hearty and filling.
- Plateada Chilena – This is a slow-cooked beef dish, where the meat (usually a cut from the rib or flank) is braised until it’s incredibly tender and juicy. It’s often served with potatoes or rice, and the meat is so soft it practically melts in your mouth. Definitely a standout comfort food in Chilean cuisine.
- Cordero al Palo – Patagonian lamb, slow-roasted over an open flame. It’s juicy, flavorful, and a must-try for meat lovers. Got to see how this was cooked on my final night of the trip in Puerto Natales!
These dishes, paired with the region’s breathtaking landscapes, made for some of the most memorable meals of my trip!
Preparing for the Patagonian Cold
Before leaving Punta Arenas, I made a stop at Patagonia Hecho a Mano, where I picked up a beautiful, handmade wool sweater. I rarely buy clothes while traveling (after visiting 66 countries, it’s not really sustainable haha). But to help prepare me for the cold, windswept adventures ahead, I wanted to get one!
As our time in Punta Arenas came to a close, the excitement only grew for the next leg of our adventure: Torres del Paine. Though it wasn’t our original plan, I was absolutely stoked to finally make it to this iconic national park with its rugged landscapes and towering peaks. The rest of the group was super hyped as well! Let’s dive into the #1 destination to visit in Patagonia.
Torres del Paine: A Playground for Adventure and Wildlife
Torres del Paine is one of Chile’s most iconic national parks. It’s got it all: jagged granite peaks, turquoise lakes, and abundant wildlife. The park covers over 700 square miles and offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes in all of Patagonia.
The moment our van crossed into Torres del Paine, I was totally mesmerized. The sheer scale of the mountains, lakes, and valleys took my breath away, and I knew instantly that this place was something truly special.
My Favorite Experiences in Torres del Paine
Torres del Paine left me completely in awe, and though I didn’t have time to tackle the iconic hikes to The Towers or the W Trek, it gives me a great reason to return. Here are all the memorable experiences I had inside the park.
Staying at Hotel Lago Grey: Sunrises, Epic Views, and Amazing Dinners
Our stay at Hotel Lago Grey was nothing short of magical. Every morning, we woke up to incredible sunrises over the Grey Lake and the surrounding mountains—views that felt like something out of a dream.
The hotel’s location made it the perfect base for exploring the park, including several hikes and excursions that leave directly from the property. The views from my room and the onsite restaurant were absolutely breathtaking!
During our stay, we were lucky enough to spot some of the local wildlife right on the property. A resident Patagonian fox (zorro) wandered near the hotel, and we also saw a Magellanic woodpecker tapping away at its reflection in the window of the hotel. If you’re lucky, you might even spot guanacos or Andean condors from the comfort of your room!
The food at Hotel Lago Grey was a real highlight of our stay, with hearty breakfasts that included freshly baked bread, eggs, and an assortment of local jams to fuel us for the day’s adventures. Dinners were also a treat, with four-course meals featuring local Patagonian specialties like lamb, fresh seafood, and decadent desserts, all served with an incredible view of the mountains. The friendly staff made the experience even better, always welcoming us with warm smiles and helpful recommendations.
We were SO lucky to get a room here, as there are very few accommodations inside the park and this is the most famous of them all. I am so grateful for the team at Sernatur and Lago Grey for making this happen, especially on such short notice!
Most visitors have to stay in Puerto Natales, which is around a two-hour drive from the park. So staying in the park, like at Hotel Lago Grey, saves travel time and allows for more time to explore! Its combination of convenience, luxurious amenities, and proximity to the park’s natural wonders makes it a top choice for those looking for an epic stay in the heart of Patagonia.
Grey Glacier Boat Ride: Icebergs and Glacier Views Up Close
The Grey Glacier boat ride was another unforgettable experience, getting up close to massive icebergs and the glacier’s towering walls of ice. Grey Glacier is part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, stretching about 17 miles (27 km) long and over 3 miles (5 km) wide. This makes it one of the largest glaciers outside of Greenland and Antarctica.
This excursion was done directly through Hotel Lago Grey. From the hotel lobby, a van picked us up and shuttled us to the start of a short, scenic hike—about 30 minutes—along the scenic waterfront.
Once we reached the shore, we boarded the boat and set off for about 3 hours across Grey Lake. The closer we got to the glacier, the more incredible the views—huge icebergs floating around in the water and that massive wall of blue ice towering in the distance. It was one of those moments where you feel small in the best way possible, standing amid Patagonia’s raw power.
To top it off, they served us Calafate Sours (a local twist on the Pisco Sour) made with berries native to the region. Legend has it that if you consume the berry, you will return to Patagonia. Sipping that while taking in the epic scenery made the whole experience feel even more enjoyable!
Earlier this year when I was just across the border in the Argentinean side of Patagonia, I wasn’t able to see the Perito Moreno Glacier. I’m SO glad I was able to do this one!
Condor Viewpoint Hike: Soaring Views of the Park
Later that day, we also hiked up to the Mirador de los Cóndores (Condor Viewpoint). This is a relatively short but rewarding trek that offered panoramic views of the park’s dramatic landscapes.
As the name suggests, we even spotted a few condors soaring overhead, which added to the magic of the moment. Standing up there, it was easy to see why this park is such a draw for adventurers from all over the world.
On our hike, we passed through sections that felt like a graveyard for trees—remnants of past wildfires that had swept through Torres del Paine. The 2011 wildfire in Torres del Paine was the most devastating in the park’s history. It destroyed over 40,000 acres of forest and land. The fire left a lasting impact on the landscape, with many of the charred trees we saw being remnants of that fire. For me, it was a somber reminder of how fragile even the most pristine wilderness can be.
A Day-Long Van Tour: Waterfalls, Wildlife, and Epic Landscapes
On one of our days in Torres del Paine, we did a full-day van tour where we got to see so much of the park’s diverse beauty. From towering waterfalls like Salto Grande, to sweeping mountain views and grassy valleys where pumas are commonly spotted.
We started our drive with an early stop at Lago Pehoé for sunrise, though thick clouds blocked the sun. Even without the sunrise, the turquoise waters and misty mountains surrounding the lake made it a serene, almost mystical start to the day.
Our next stop was the beautiful Cascada Río Paine, a lesser-known but stunning waterfall in Torres del Paine. The waterfall itself is beautiful, with the river tumbling over rocks against the backdrop of mountains. But what made it extra special was the blanket of snow covering everything. The whole scene looked like a winter wonderland, and it gave me serious Iceland vibes.
Later on, we visited the impressive Salto Grande waterfall, which is about 15 meters (50 feet) tall. The power of the water rushing through the gorge was insane, it made for a pretty epic scene. The waterfall is fed by a nearby lake, Lago Nordenskjöld, and on a clear day you can see the iconic Cuernos del Paine peaks in the background.
What made it even better was the weather—snowy and super windy, which totally took me back to Iceland. Standing there with the wind whipping around and snow flying in every direction made the whole experience feel even wilder and more intense.
We also spent a good chunk of the day doing some wildlife spotting, and the park didn’t disappoint. We saw guanacos, condors, sheep, horses, foxes, and more.
Our guides brought us to the Sarmiento Lake sector or the Pampa Guanaco region of the park. This is an open, grassy valley that’s ideal for guanacos to graze and, consequently, is a prime hunting ground for pumas. The wide plains offer great visibility for wildlife watching. This makes it one of the best areas in the park to spot these elusive predators…though sightings are never guaranteed. Unfortunately, we didn’t see any pumas. But I will definitely hire a puma tracker in the future to ensure that I actually get to see them!
Exploring Milodón Cave on the Way to Puerto Natales
As we made our way toward Puerto Natales, we made a stop at the famous Milodón Cave (Cueva del Milodón). This massive cave is not only a geological wonder but also a place steeped in history and legend. It’s named after the Milodón, an extinct giant ground sloth whose remains were discovered here in the late 19th century. The cave, stretching over 200 meters (650 feet) in length, gave us a glimpse into the prehistoric past of Patagonia, where the Milodón once roamed.
Milodons, along with other now-extinct species like the Saber-toothed tiger and American horse (equus giganteus), roamed the region about 10,000 years ago during the last Ice Age. Ancient humans also lived in the cave during this period, likely sharing the landscape with these massive creatures. The cave’s large size provided natural shelter from the harsh Patagonian winds, making it a key site for early inhabitants of the region.
It was a fascinating way to wrap up our time in the region. It was surreal to walk through the cave and imagine what life must have been like for both humans and the megafauna that once called this place home.
One Night in Puerto Natales: The Gateway to Torres del Paine
Our last stop was Puerto Natales. This charming and scenic town is along the Última Esperanza Sound and surrounded by snowcapped mountains. Its proximity to Torres del Paine makes it the perfect gateway for travelers, but what really stood out to me was the laid-back vibe and the friendly, adorable stray dogs that roam the streets, adding to the town’s unique character.
For lunch, we went to Mesita Grande, and I’ve gotta say, I was totally surprised by how amazing the pizza was—especially in such a remote spot. I ordered the Mesita Grande pizza, and it was unreal—loaded with fresh toppings and lamb cooked just right. Who knew you could find such legit pizza in the middle of Patagonia? It was exactly what we needed after days of exploring.
Another Highlight: Experiencing a Traditional Patagonian Asado (Barbecue)
For our final dinner, we indulged in a traditional Patagonian asado at El Asador Patagónico. The star of the show was the asado al palo, a barbecued lamb slow-cooked over an open flame, which was incredibly tender and packed with flavor. To accompany it, we enjoyed Carménère wine that perfectly complemented the richness of the lamb. It was the perfect farewell to Patagonia’s incredible food scene.
As I looked out over the waterfront during sunrise the next morning, I couldn’t help but wish I’d had more time to explore Puerto Natales. There’s a relaxed magic to this town that left me wanting more…yet another reason to come back someday!
My Biggest Lessons From the Trip
During my time in Chilean Patagonia, I not only soaked in the breathtaking landscapes but also came away with some valuable lessons that went beyond just travel. Here are some of my biggest takeaways from my week in Chile’s slice of Patagonia:
Lesson 1: The Beauty of Going with the Flow
When the weather derailed our plans for Puerto Williams, it was tough not to feel disappointed. After all, a ferry ride passing by epic fjords and mountains to one of the world’s most remote towns was something I’d been looking forward to. But with that off the table, we had to shift gears and head to Torres del Paine. And what a blessing that turned out to be. I’ve wanted to visit for years and was actually bummed when I didn’t see it in the original itinerary. So, this was the best Plan B imaginable!
Had we stuck to the original itinerary, I would’ve missed out on this incredible experience. Sometimes, the best adventures are the ones you didn’t plan for!
Lesson 2: Nature’s Unpredictability is What Makes It Magical
Patagonia’s wild weather is something you have to experience to truly understand. One minute it’s sunny, the next you’re being whipped by powerful winds and rain that seem to come out of nowhere. The locals love to say how there are four seasons in a day (“cuatro estaciones en un día”). And it couldn’t be more accurate—Patagonia’s weather can shift dramatically in just a few hours.
Instead of seeing this as a challenge, I learned to embrace it—after all, this unpredictability is part of what makes Patagonia so magical.
There were several short hikes we did where the weather turned on a dime. The wind was so strong it felt like it could lift you off your feet, and mist swirled through the mountains, creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere. Rather than being frustrated or wanting to retreat indoors, I found myself in awe of nature’s power and beauty- even taking off some layers to feel the elements in a deeper way. Patagonia’s weather keeps you on your toes, and that’s part of the adventure.
Lesson 3: Chile’s Food Scene is Underrated, But It Shouldn’t Be
While Chile’s cuisine may not be as internationally famous as, say, Italian, Mexican, or Thai, I was blown away by how fresh and flavorful everything was during my trip. Chilean food is all about letting the quality of local ingredients shine, and you can really taste the difference.
One standout was the King Crab (Centolla) in Punta Arenas. It’s so sweet, tender, and fresh that it didn’t need much more than a bit of seasoning. Then there was the Cordero al Palo, slow-roasted Patagonian lamb, which was juicy and packed with flavor, a true taste of the region’s traditions. And let’s not forget the Pisco Sour, the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and smooth, a refreshing cocktail I couldn’t get enough of. I look forward to attempting to make this back in the US!
Even the simplest meals, like a seafood empanada or a rustic sopaipilla (fried dough with pebre salsa), were full of flavor thanks to the freshness of the ingredients. Chile’s food scene might not be world-renowned. But it’s an absolute hidden gem, offering some of the most delicious meals I’ve ever had!
Lesson 3: Time Spent in Remote Places Allows for Deeper Connection
One of the most striking things about Chilean Patagonia is how remote and untouched it feels. It’s a vast, wild region, and while it draws adventure-seekers from all over, the sheer scale of the landscape makes it easy to feel completely isolated. Even in Torres del Paine, one of the most popular destinations in Chile, we found it surprisingly quiet during this time of year. Few tourists crossed our path, and we barely saw any other cars in the park. This made the experience even more special!
This extra time we had in Torres del Paine allowed me to truly connect with the landscape. Instead of rushing through crowded trails, I found myself immersed in the stillness of the park. It was just out small group, the towering mountains, and the wildlife. Being in such a remote, untouched place made me appreciate the beauty of solitude and the value of slowing down to fully absorb the magic of Patagonia.
Lesson 4: The Contrast Between City and Wilderness Offers Perspective
Starting and ending my trip in Santiago really put into perspective the stark contrast between urban life and the vast wilderness of Patagonia. After spending a week surrounded by towering mountains and endless skies, coming back to the hustle and bustle of city life was a bit of a shock to the system.
When I returned to Santiago, I noticed how much I craved the quiet and serenity of nature. The city felt even more chaotic than before (7+ million people is no joke). And it made me appreciate the peace I’d found in the wilderness.
That contrast really heightened my appreciation for both worlds. But it also reminded me how much I value the simplicity and stillness that comes with being out in nature. Though I will say, there’s something really nice about Santiago as well with its incredible foodie scene.
Lesson 5: The Importance of Flexibility in Travel (and Life)
If there’s one lesson this trip reminded me of, it’s that flexibility is key—both in travel and in life. I’ve learned this on other adventures, but missing out on our epic 32-hour ferry ride to Puerto Williams really drove it home. I had been so excited to visit the southernmost town in the world and grab a drink at the southernmost bar—a bucket-list experience for sure! But sometimes, weather doesn’t cooperate, and you have to pivot.
While I was definitely bummed about missing out, this change in plans opened up more time in Torres del Paine. And in the end, that turned out to be an amazing experience.
Flexibility doesn’t always lead to life-changing moments, but it’s a great reminder that travel—like life—is full of unexpected twists. Sometimes, the best memories come from just rolling with it. And when you have a group of amazing people by your side, it makes rolling with those unexpected twists even more fun.
Tips Before Visiting Chilean Patagonia
Visiting Chilean Patagonia is an incredible adventure, but you definitely have to be prepared for the region’s unique challenges and surprises. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip:
- Pack for All Weather. Patagonia is famous for its wild, unpredictable weather. Be ready for four seasons in a day—snow, rain, wind, and sunshine can all happen within hours. Layer up and bring waterproof gear, including boots!
- Book Accommodations Early. With limited places to stay inside Torres del Paine, I recommend booking your hotels and campsites as early as possible. Staying in the park, like at Hotel Lago Grey, saves you a long drive from Puerto Natales and gives you more time to explore.
- Have Cash on Hand. Credit cards aren’t accepted everywhere, especially inside Torres del Paine, where some hotels and restaurants lack reliable internet. Make sure to have enough Chilean pesos for park fees, snacks, and any last-minute purchases.
- Prepare for Long Drives. Distances between major sites can be long, so plan your travel days carefully. The drive from Puerto Natales to Torres del Paine takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. From Punta Arenas to the national park, expect the drive to take 5-6 hours. So factor that into your daily itinerary.
- Get Your Park Permit in Advance. You need a permit to enter Torres del Paine National Park. You can buy it online in advance or at the park entrance. But don’t rely on buying it on the spot during peak season. Sometimes the park reaches capacity, so snag your pass early to avoid being turned away!
- Wildlife is Everywhere. Keep your eyes peeled! From guanacos to condors, wildlife is abundant throughout the region. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a puma in the open valleys.
- Don’t Skip Puerto Natales. This charming town is more than just a stopover. Take time to explore the local restaurants and enjoy the views of Última Esperanza Sound. Next time, I definitely want to spend more time here!
- Expect Limited Connectivity. WiFi and cell service can be spotty, especially inside the park. We also had periods of no Wi-Fi connection inside the rooms at the Hotel Lago Grey. So if you’re planning to take lots of photos, be sure to have multiple backup options beyond iCloud. Def use it as an opportunity to unplug and fully immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes!
- Be Ready for Hiking. Even if you’re not doing the W Circuit or the Base of the Towers hike, there are plenty of shorter hikes like Mirador de los Cóndores that offer incredible views without the commitment.
- Try the Local Flavors. Whether it’s a Calafate Sour, King Crab, or the famous Patagonian lamb, the food here is fresh, flavorful, and a must-try. Indulge whenever you can—you won’t regret it!
This trip to Chilean Patagonia reminded me how wild and awe-inspiring nature can be—and how sometimes, the best moments come from the unexpected. From the towering peaks to quiet moments on the trails, it left me feeling grateful and inspired, and already thinking about when I’ll come back. Hopefully next fall (April-May 2025)!
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