Puerto Natales

PATAGONIAN GLACIERS AND SPIRES — CHILE & ARGENTINA, 12 DAYS

Hiking

What you'll do

Discover the essence of Patagonia on an unforgettable 12-day journey through Chile and Argentina. From the dramatic spires of Torres del Paine to the legendary peaks of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre, this itinerary blends world-class trekking with awe-inspiring scenery. You’ll hike through ancient forests, along turquoise lakes, and beneath hanging glaciers, exploring iconic trails like the Base of the Towers, the French Valley, and Laguna de los Tres. Between adventures, relax in cozy refuges and charming mountain towns like Puerto Natales, El Calafate, and El Chaltén. Every step reveals the wild heart of Patagonia—raw, remote, and utterly breathtaking.

Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Patagonia!

After arriving (we recommend around 4 pm) at Puerto Natales airport, a transfer will be waiting to take you to the hotel. This small town will be our starting point for exploring Patagonia. Once we've checked in, the rest of the afternoon and evening will be free to relax and take a walk around the area. We'll also meet our guide for a short briefing about the plans for the upcoming days.

Day 2: Puerto Natales to Torre Central along the Tower Base trek

We catch the 7:00 a.m. bus from Puerto Natales to Torres del Paine and register at Laguna Amarga before taking the shuttle to “Las Torres.” After checking in at Cerro Paine Reserve, we walk to Torre Central and settle in. Our trek begins through the Ascencio Valley, passing lush forest and climbing a rocky boulder field until we reach the iconic Base of the Towers. At 900 m.a.s.l., we admire the soaring granite spires and turquoise lagoon, enjoy our box lunch, then hike back to Torre Central for a hearty dinner. Distance: 21 km (13 mi) | Elevation gain: + 1.000 m (3.281 ft) - 1.000 m (3.281 ft) | Time: 8-10 hours

Day 3: Between Lake Nordenskjöld and Mount Almirante Nieto

After breakfast, we pick up our box lunch and head deeper into the park. The trail leads us past clear streams and along the base of Mount Almirante Nieto, where hanging glaciers glisten in the sun. As we follow the shores of Lake Nordenskjöld, we watch for condors soaring overhead and soak in the dramatic scenery. By late afternoon, we arrive at our night’s accommodation—either Los Cuernos or Francés Refuge—where we can rest, share stories from the trail, and enjoy a peaceful evening surrounded by nature. Distance: 16 km (10 mi) | Elevation gain: +350 m (1,148 ft) -400 m (1,312 ft) | Time: 5–8 hours

Day 4: The French Valley trek to Paine Grande’s glaciers

We start early with breakfast and our box lunch before hiking toward the heart of Torres del Paine: the French Valley. After two hours, we pass the Francés campsite and reach Campamento Italiano, where we leave our packs with the rangers. From here, we climb through boulders and lenga forest to the French Plateau, rewarded with breathtaking views of Los Cuernos, turquoise lagoons, and Paine Grande’s hanging glaciers. After lunch and time to marvel at the scenery, we descend, collect our packs, and continue on a gentle 2.5-hour walk to Paine Grande Refuge for dinner. Distance: 20 km (12 mi) | Elevation gain: +700 m (2,297 ft) -800 m (2,625 ft) | Time: 6–7 hours

Day 5: From Paine Grande to the deep blue of the Grey Glacier

We start the day with a hearty breakfast and grab our packed lunch before setting out. The trail leads us through a narrow valley and past Laguna Los Patos, where we glimpse the vast Southern Ice Field and floating icebergs on Lake Grey. At a viewpoint, we pause to take in sweeping panoramas before descending through mountain forest to reach Refugio Grey. Just a short walk away, the Grey Glacier lookout puts us face-to-face with one of the bluest and most impressive glaciers in the world. Dinner awaits at the refuge. Distance: 10 km (6 mi) | Elevation gain: +320 m (1,050 ft) -290 m (951 ft) | Time: 3–4 hours

Day 6: Heading back to Puerto Natales – Catamaran ride

In the morning, we can visit the hanging bridges if we missed them yesterday, enjoying a last close-up of Grey Glacier. Then we retrace our steps along the trail back to Paine Grande. In the late afternoon, we board the 6:35 p.m. catamaran to Pudeto and connect with the 7:15 p.m. bus to Puerto Natales. By 9:30 p.m., we arrive back in town, tired but exhilarated, carrying unforgettable memories of Patagonia’s wild beauty. Distance: 10 km | Elevation gain: + 290 m (856 ft) - 300 m (997 ft) | Time: 4-5 hours

Day 7: Across the Border to El Calafate, welcome in Argentina!

Today we say goodbye to Chile and board the regular bus to El Calafate, Argentina. The ride is long, but we relax and take in the vast landscapes stretching between the two borders—endless horizons, open skies, and the wild beauty of Patagonia rolling past our windows. By the time we arrive in El Calafate, we’re ready to unwind. The evening is free for us to enjoy dinner at leisure and rest before the next adventure.

Day 8: Perito Moreno Glacier’s stunning beauty

We’ll begin the day with an early pick-up (1.30 hours one way) for one of the trip’s absolute highlights: a visit to the Perito Moreno Glacier. Located in Los Glaciares National Park, in the southern Andes of Argentina, this natural wonder has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981 for its stunning beauty. You’ll have the chance to admire the glacier from the walkways, where the view of its towering ice walls is nothing short of breathtaking. For those who want to experience it even closer, there are optional activities available, such as a scenic boat ride or even a guided ice hike. In the afternoon, we’ll transfer back to the hotel to rest after an unforgettable day.

Day 9: Transfer to El Chaltén

After breakfast, we travel about 220 km (around 3 hours drive, depending on the route conditions) to El Chaltén, Argentina’s youngest town and its trekking capital. Nestled along the Río de las Vueltas and framed by the iconic peaks of Cerro Torre and Mount Fitz Roy, it immediately inspires us with its dramatic scenery. In the afternoon, we have free time to stroll through the town, explore short trails nearby, or simply relax and enjoy the mountain atmosphere. We spend the night here, ready to start our adventures in this spectacular region.

Day 10: Hike to Laguna de los Tres and the granite spires of Fitz Roy

Today promises one of the most iconic treks in Patagonia. After breakfast, we set off toward Laguna de los Tres, with the imposing Fitz Roy massif guiding the way. The trail passes through Poincenot Camp and over the Blanco River before climbing steeply in its final stretch. Though this last ascent is the most demanding part of the hike, the reward is extraordinary: the shimmering waters of Laguna de los Tres set beneath the jagged granite spires of Fitz Roy. Here we’ll pause to enjoy lunch, rest by the lake, and take in the view before retracing our steps back to town. Distance: 22 km (14 mi) | Elevation gain: +950 m (3,117 ft) -950 m (3,117 ft) | Time: 8–9 hours

Day 11: Hike to Laguna Torre along the Fitz Roy River valley

After breakfast, we set out on a stunning trek through the valley shaped by the legendary Cerro Torre. The trail takes us past scenic lakes, lenga and ñire forests, and we may spot Patagonian geese along the way. Crossing a moraine, we reach the shores of Laguna Torre, where the jagged Grande Glacier meets the water—a breathtaking sight. After time to enjoy the views, we retrace our steps along the Fitz Roy River valley, pausing at a classic viewpoint and the Margarita waterfall before returning to El Chaltén. Distance: 20 km (12 mi) | Elevation gain: +580 m (1,903 ft) -580 m (1,903 ft) | Time: 6 hours

Day 12: Farewell

After breakfast, we say goodbye to Patagonia and board our regular transfer back to El Calafate. The journey brings us to the airport by mid-morning, perfectly timed for flights departing from 1:30 p.m. onward. With hearts full of memories—towering peaks, vast glaciers, and the wild spirit of the south—we close this unforgettable adventure!

Important stuff

From the highest peaks to the hidden trails, we've got your back

100% Guaranteed Departures

Once you book, your trip is guaranteed to run, allowing you to book your flights with confidence.

Flexible Changes

Want to change your departure date or trip? No problem—enjoy maximum flexibility to make changes up to 60 days before departure.

Comprehensive Insurance & Assistance

Travel with peace of mind. Our insurance package covers accidents and rescue during outdoor activities, medical expenses, and luggage protection, as well as trip cancellations and 24/7 medical assistance from our insurance partner.

100% Guaranteed Departures: Once you book, your trip is guaranteed to run, allowing you to book your flights with confidence.
Flexible Changes: Want to change your departure date or trip? No problem—enjoy maximum flexibility to make changes up to 60 days before departure.
Comprehensive Insurance & Assistance: Travel with peace of mind. Our insurance package covers accidents and rescue during outdoor activities, medical expenses, and luggage protection, as well as trip cancellations and 24/7 medical assistance from our insurance partner.

see more on How it works

What's included

Accident insurance

Medical and luggage insurance

Travel cancellation insurance

Hiking Guide

Accommodation

Transport from airport

Transport to airport

Regular Transfer from your hotel in El Chaltén to Calafate or airport

Round-trip catamaran on Lake Pehoé, Torres del Paine Park

4 dinners on days 2-3-4-5

4 nights accommodation in camping and/or refuge in Torres del Paine National Park

2 nights accommodation in triple/quadruple room in El Calafate

3 nights accommodation in triple/quadruple El Chaltén

Bus transfer to and from Torres del Paine Park

Catamaran ticket on Lake Pehoé, Torres del Paine Park

Bus transfer from Puerto Natales to El Calafate

5 days guided trek Torres del Paine

Boat ride in Lago Grey Torres del Paine

Excursion to Perito Moreno Glacier Viewpoint

Guided trek to Laguna de los Tres in El Chaltén

Guided Trek to Laguna Torre in El Chaltén

Flight

Visa (if applicable)

Everything not mentioned in the “What’s included”

Tips

Transfer to restaurants in town

Personal equipment

Meals not detailed in the program

Entrance to Los Glaciares Park

Entrance to Torres del Paine Park

3 days entrance to National Park Los Glaciares in Perito Moreno & El Chaltén: around 92USD per person

Optional extra activity in Perito Moreno Glacier

Accomodations

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Patagonia hosterías (days 1 and 6 to 11)

In Patagonia, hosterías (lodges) offer a warm and comfortable stay that blends local charm with the surrounding wilderness. Rooms are typically shared — triple or quadruple — and equipped with comfortable beds, heating, and en-suite bathrooms with hot showers. Delicious breakfasts are included every day.

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Patagonia refuges (days 2 to 5)

During the Torres del Paine trek, each refuge offers two types of accommodation: beds inside the refuge or pre-set tents in the same area. The final allocation depends on the availability managed daily by the company operating the campsite. Tent options include already-pitched or elevated tents equipped with a sleeping bag, liner, and mat, while the refuge rooms provide simple or full beds with bedding and pillows.

Guides

Mijel & Andes Infinito

Mijel is IFMGA and AAGM Mountain Guide in Argentina. Aconcagua has become a second home for him, since he’s summited it 50 times (and counting), and it is the place where he also works as a doctor. He guides people in Latin America and Europe, giving technical courses in mountain medicine, climbing, mountaineering, ice climbing, etc.

Maga & Andes Infinito

Maga is a passionate outdoor lover and tour guide, founder of Andes Infinito. She combines her travel experience and technical knowledge with her respectful way of enjoying nature in order to design life-changing and bespoke experiences.