O Circuit Patagonia - 8 days – Chile – FlashpackerConnect Adventure Travel

The O Circuit in Torres del Paine National Park offers one of the most breathtaking trekking experiences in the world. This 8-day journey takes you through diverse landscapes, including majestic glaciers, pristine lakes, and towering peaks, as you complete a full loop around the famous Paine Massif. Known for its rugged terrain and dramatic scenery, this trek provides unrivaled views of the park's iconic Torres del Paine towers, the mighty Grey Glacier, and the stunning Frances Valley.

With the flexibility of self-guided options or fully supported guided treks, the O Circuit offers an unforgettable adventure for those looking to experience Patagonia’s wild beauty. Whether you prefer the independence of a self-guided journey or the support and expertise of a guide, this trek offers something for every type of adventurer. You'll be fully immersed in the heart of Patagonia, hiking through pristine forests, alongside glacial lakes, and over rugged mountain passes.

Trip Highlights:

Torres del Paine’s Iconic Views: Reach the base of the Torres del Paine and marvel at the imposing granite spires that define the park.
Grey Glacier: Explore the magnificent Grey Glacier, with views of its ice floes drifting in Grey Lake. Hike the John Garner Pass for spectacular vistas.
Frances Valley: Trek through Frances Valley, surrounded by jagged peaks, crystal-clear rivers, and expansive meadows.
Paine Massif Circuit: Complete the full circuit around the iconic Paine Massif, one of the most iconic mountain ranges in Patagonia.
Pristine Wilderness: Experience the untouched wilderness of Torres del Paine, from glacial-fed lakes to ancient forests and wind-swept plains.
Self-Guided or Guided Trek Options: Choose between a self-guided trek for more flexibility or a fully guided trek to ensure expert guidance and support throughout your journey.

Why Choose This Adventure:

Experience one of the world’s most famous treks, exploring Patagonia’s rugged beauty and remote landscapes.
Choose from self-guided or guided trek options for the level of support and adventure you desire.
Fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Torres del Paine with options for varying levels of accommodation, from rustic campsites to comfortable refugios.
Ideal for experienced trekkers looking for a challenge or those seeking expert-led guidance for a safe and enriching experience.
Comprehensive itineraries and expert support ensure a seamless, unforgettable journey through one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the world.

Duration: 8 Days | Starting Point: Puerto Natales, Chile | Finishing Point: Puerto Natales, Chile

SEASON: November through March

OVERVIEW:

Day 1: Transportation to Torres del Paine for the start of your trek

Day 2: Hike to Dickson Lake, overnight - Dickson Camp

Day 3: Hike to Los Perros, overnight - Los Perros Sector

Day 4: Hike to John Garner pass and Grey Lake, overnight - Grey

Day 5: Hike to Paine Grande, overnight - Paine Grande

Day 6: Hike to Francés Valley, overnight - Francés/Cuernos Sector

Day 7: Hike to Central Sector, overnight - Central Sector

Day 8: Hike to the Torres Base and return to Puerto Natales

Departures:

Self Guided Program: Every day
Guided Group: Available on request please inquire
Private Guided Group: Every day

2024/2025 Pricing - Self Guided

Camping: $2,050usd Per Person

Refugio: $2,420usd Per Person

*($560usd single supplement for single campers)

Trip PDF

Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Torres del Paine National Park - Trek to Serón Campsite

Distance: 9km / 5.6 miles

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

Elevation Gain: 820ft (250m)

Arrival & Departure: The trip begins and ends in the Chilean town of Puerto Natales, a touristic bus is provided in the package to/from Torres del Paine National Park. Flights are recommended from Santiago to Puerto Natales, in the case there are no flight direct to Puerto Natales from Santiago, you can fly into Punta Arenas, ground transfers can also be arranged from the Argentina town of El Calafate at an extra cost.

Day 1: Following breakfast at the hotel in Puerto Natales, ensure you've secured your packed lunch before heading to the bus terminal to catch the 07:00 am departure (arrive at least 10 minutes early). This journey cuts through the picturesque Patagonian pampas, leading you to Laguna Amarga, the primary gateway to Torres del Paine National Park. Here, registration with CONAF (park rangers) is mandatory. You'll then transition to "Transporte Las Torres," your transport to the Welcome Center, where Cerro Paine Reserve passengers register. From there, your trek to the Serón campsite commences.

Though categorized as one of the more straightforward hikes on the circuit, the path to Serón unveils stunning vistas of Torres del Paine's rugged wilderness. You'll traverse a lush green tapestry of trees, descending gently onto the boundless Patagonian plains. Along the relatively even trail to Serón, you'll encounter pristine streams and ample opportunities to immerse yourself in the vastness of the landscape. Upon reaching the campsite, take some time to settle in before relishing a well-deserved dinner served in Serón's intimate dining quarters.

Duration: 4 – 5 hours

Difficulty: Medium

Distance: 9 kilometers (approximately 5.6 miles)

Meals Included: Box lunch and dinner

Accommodation: Serón campsite

Day 2: Hike to Dickson

Distance: 18km / 11.5 miles

Hiking Time: 6-7 hours

Elevation Gain: 650ft (200m)

This will be a long but unforgettable day of hiking. The ﬁrst part of the trail will take you up and down the slopes of Paine Hill, where you will feel the power of the wind. Embark on a rewarding journey today, delving into the heart of the park through undulating hills and verdant meadows. Snow-crowned peaks, serene blue lakes, and expansive grasslands create a captivating backdrop as you venture into the northern reaches of the park. Along the way, be prepared to be awe struck by the majestic Dickson Glacier, Cerro Cuba, and other rugged peaks that delineate the Chile-Argentina border. Upon reaching the Dickson area, settle in and take the afternoon to explore the rocky shores of Dickson Lake before enjoying a hearty dinner at the refuge.

Duration: 6 – 7 hours

Difficulty: Medium

Distance: 18.5 kilometers (approximately 11.5 miles)

Meals Included: Breakfast, box lunch, and dinner

Accommodation: Dickson Camp

Day 3: Hike to Los Perros

Distance: 9km / 5.6 miles

Hiking Time: 5 hours

Elevation Gain: 1,180ft (360m)

Embark on a journey through the park's most secluded realms, surrounded by lush greenery. As you traverse this pristine landscape, be serenaded by the gentle rustle of wind through the foliage and the melodious calls of Magellanic woodpeckers. Following the course of the Los Perros River, ascend a vast moraine, where you'll be mesmerized by the sight of the majestic Los Perros glacier and its shimmering blue-green lagoon against a backdrop of picturesque mountains. Continuing along a rocky trail, you'll eventually reach the Los Perros campsite, your haven for the night. Take this opportunity to recharge, as tomorrow's adventure awaits.

Duration: 5 hours

Difficulty: Medium

Distance: 9 kilometers (approximately 5.6 miles)

Meals Included: Breakfast, box lunch, and dinner

Accommodation: Los Perros Sector

Day 4: Trek to Grey via John Garner Pass

Distance: 22km / 13.7 miles

Hiking Time: 10-12 hours

Elevation Gain: 2,035ft (620m)

Prepare yourself for the most challenging yet immensely rewarding leg of the Paine circuit. Following an early breakfast at the quincho and securing your box lunch, embark on a journey through gnarled tree roots and sprawling mud puddles beneath the verdant canopy of the forest. As you emerge from the woodland, brace yourself for a ascent over rugged and loose rocks, occasionally dusted with snow, leading you to the pinnacle of the circuit: the renowned John Garner Pass (1,200 meters above sea level). Buffeted by the fierce Patagonian winds, marvel at the grandeur of the Southern Ice Fields and their glistening expanse. The descent unfolds alongside a colossal ice wall before weaving through the El Paso campsite, home to a park ranger outpost. Traverse exhilarating suspension bridges before finally arriving at the Grey shelter for a replenishing dinner and a well-earned rest.

Duration: 10 – 12 hours

Difficulty: Demanding

Distance: 22 kilometers (approximately 13.7 miles)

Meals Included: Breakfast, box lunch, and dinner

Accommodation: Grey

Day 5: Trek to Paine Grande

Distance: 11km / 6.8 miles

Hiking Time: 4 hours

Elevation Gain: 900ft (280m)

Indulge in breakfast at Refugio Grey as you prepare for another day of awe-inspiring vistas, this time featuring the breathtaking Southern Icefields and the glacial expanse of Grey Lake (don’t forget to request your box lunch!). Begin your journey with a hike through mountainous forests, ascending to the occasionally blustery vantage point overlooking Grey Glacier. The trail then leads you onward to Los Patos Lagoon, where you commence a descent through a narrow, windswept valley that guides you directly to the Paine Grande refuge.

Duration: 4 – 4.5 hours

Difficulty: Medium

Distance: 11 kilometers (approximately 6.8 miles)

Meals Included: Breakfast, box lunch, and dinner

Accommodation: Paine Grande

Optional: Today, you have the morning free to kayak on Grey Lake with a prior reservation. Inquire about pricing and availability for this exciting activity.

Day 6: Exploration of the French Valley

Distance: 17km / 10.5 miles

Hiking Time: 7-9 hours

Elevation Gain: 2,265ft (660m)

Rise with the sun for a day brimming with exploration deep within the heart of Torres del Paine National Park. Following breakfast, prepare your box lunch as you gear up for a day surrounded by the stunning vistas of Patagonian mountains. Traverse arid landscapes and wander along the tranquil shores of Skottsberg Lake. After approximately 2.5 hours of hiking, you'll reach the Italian campsite, marking the commencement of your ascent into the valley.

Ascend through vast rocky terrain, tracing the edge of the tree-fringed ridge until you reach the French lookout. Here, you'll be greeted by awe-inspiring panoramas of the Cuernos, turquoise glacial lagoons, and magnificent hanging glaciers cascading down the eastern face of Cerro Paine Grande (3,050 meters). If fortune smiles upon you, you may even hear the thunderous roar of cascading water and ice, a testament to the dynamic nature of the landscape. Be sure to capture this moment with some photographs and savor your box lunch amidst this natural splendor. Retrace your steps along the same trail to the Italian campsite before continuing on to Domos Francés or Los Cuernos refuge. Relax in the afternoon and indulge in a delectable dinner at the refuge of your choice.

Duration: 6 – 8 hours

Difficulty: Demanding

Distance: 15 – 17 kilometers (approximately 9.3 - 10.5 miles)

Meals Included: Breakfast, box lunch, and dinner

Accommodation: Francés/Cuernos Sector

Day 7: Trek to Central Tower

Distance: 14.5 km / 9 miles

Hiking Time: 4-6 hours

Elevation Gain: 650ft (200m)

Embark on your journey to Central Tower, whether starting from Los Cuernos refuge or Domos Francés. Along the way, meander alongside pristine streams, marvel at the hanging glaciers of Almirante Nieto mountain (2,670 meters), and keep your eyes peeled for the majestic presence of condors soaring above. Skirt the captivating blue-green waters of Nordenskjöld lake as you follow the well-marked trail to the Torre Central refuge, where you can unwind and relax for the afternoon.

Duration: 4 – 6 hours

Difficulty: Medium

Distance: 14.5 kilometers (approximately 9 miles)

Meals Included: Breakfast, box lunch, and dinner

Accommodation: Central Sector

Day 8: Hike to Las Torres Base

Distance: 22km / 13.7 miles

Hiking Time: 8-10 hours

Elevation Gain: 2,460ft (750m)

Prepare for today's hike in the Ascencio Valley, surrounded by expansive forests. As you ascend, traverse an immense field of colossal rocks until you reach one of the world's most iconic viewpoints: the renowned Base Torres. Perched at an altitude of approximately 900 meters (2953 feet) above sea level, behold the awe-inspiring sight of the three granite towers (north, central, and south) towering above, accompanied by the shimmering turquoise glacier lake below. Seize this opportunity to capture unforgettable photographs and relish your box lunch before retracing your steps downhill along the same trail.

The hike is estimated to take around 8 to 10 hours, ensuring you have ample time to soak in the breathtaking scenery and enjoy the journey.

At 7pm, board the "Las Torres" transfer to Laguna Amarga to catch the 7:30pm regular bus back to Puerto Natales. Anticipate arriving in Natales around 9:15pm.

Duration: Approximately 8 – 10 hours

Difficulty: Demanding

Distance: 22 kilometers (approximately 13.7 miles)

Meals Included: Breakfast, box lunch

Accommodation: Puerto Natales (not included)

Additional Information:

Where does the O Circuit Patagonia tour begin?

The tour departs from the city of Puerto Natales. If you're traveling from Santiago de Chile, the recommended option is to take a flight direct to or Puerto Natales (however flights are less frequent). Alternatively fly into Punta Arenas (more frequent), from there, you can either catch a bus, which will take approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes to reach the bus station in Puerto Natales, or opt for a private transportation service with us.

For travelers coming from El Calafate in Argentina, there are direct buses to Puerto Natales, which take about 5 hours. Alternatively, you can arrange a transfer with us from El Calafate to Puerto Natales or a direct transfer between El Calafate and Torres del Paine.

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For more FAQs please visit our blog that covers all your questions about hiking in Torres del Paine,

Additional Trip Info

7 nights of lodging (campsite or mountain hostel)*
(Guided Programs only) Professional Mountain guide - Fluent English & Spanish
Mountain hostels have shared rooms that include made beds in the Grey, Dickson and Central sectors, and a sleeping bag in the Francés, Cuernos and Chileno sectors.
Campsite includes a tent, sleeping bag and sleeping mat (all camping gear is included and pre-setup for you on arrival to camp each night). You will not need to carry this from camp to camp.
Welcome Kit: Includes dry bag, water bottle, large map, buff (bandana) or welcome drink. You receive this kit and your program vouchers prior to your trek. *Please note: contents may change without notice and at the discretion of our supply.
Torres del Paine National Park entrance tickets.
Transport via regular bus from Puerto Natales to Torres del Paine and back.
All meals (full board: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

* You will spend the 6th night in either Francés or Cuernos Sector, depending on the availability at the moment of booking