Frequently Asked Questions

There are daily seasonal buses connecting Puerto Natales with Laguna Amarga, Serrano and Pudeto, plus private transfers. The trip takes around 2 hours. Full details here:
https://torresdelpaine.com/en/torres-del-paine-2/useful-tips/how-to-get-to/#
https://torresdelpaine.com/en/transfer/puerto-natales-bus-terminal-torres-del-paine/

Torres del Paine National Park has three main entrances:
Laguna Amarga,
Serrano,
Lago Sarmiento.
The choice of entrance will depend on the itinerary or sector you plan to visit.
For example:
If you are traveling to the Las Torres sector to hike to Base Torres, visit Cuernos, or start the O Circuit, the recommended entrance is Laguna Amarga.
For excursions or boat trips in the Grey or Pehoé sector, we suggest entering through Serrano or Lago Sarmiento.
You can check the complete map and access details in our guide to Entrances and Access to Torres del Paine National Park.

Yes, there is no free public transportation within Torres del Paine National Park, but there are regular services connecting the main sectors and gatehouses.
You will find:
Buses connecting Puerto Natales ⇄ Laguna Amarga / Pudeto / Administration.
Shuttle between Laguna Amarga and the Las Torres Welcome Center.
Catamaran on Lake Pehoé, connecting Pudeto with Paine Grande, widely used by those doing the W Trek.
Check schedules, routes, and mobility tips in the section How to get around inside the park.

Yes, you can drive around Torres del Paine, which is an excellent way to explore the park at your own pace, stopping at viewpoints and natural areas.
The roads are gravel and mostly passable year-round, although some sections—such as the one connecting Administración with Hotel Lago Grey—are less well maintained and require caution.
Check out recommendations, road conditions, and safe driving tips in the guide Torres del Paine by car: yes, you can.

The best time depends on the type of experience you are looking for.
High season (October to April): longer daylight hours, more stable weather, and all services operational; ideal for doing the W, O, and classic excursions.
Mid-season (October–November and March–April): fewer visitors, intense colors, and good weather conditions.
Winter (May to September): very few visitors, several services closed, and more challenging weather, but incredible landscapes under the snow.
Always check the forecast and trail conditions before your visit.

In 3 or 4 days, you can visit the most iconic viewpoints, such as Cuernos del Paine, Grey Lake, Salto Grande, wildlife viewpoints, and Base Torres (weather permitting).
For trekking:
W Trek: 4–5 days.
O Circuit: 7–9 days.
The total time will depend on your pace, weather, and type of accommodation.

Yes, if you are going to spend the night on the W or O circuits, you must book each night of camping, shelter, or campsite in advance; it is mandatory to enter the park. The eastern sectors (Central, Chileno, Cuernos) are booked with Las Torres Patagonia, and the western sectors (Paine Grande, Grey, Dickson, Los Perros) with Vértice Patagonia. For day visits, your valid ticket is sufficient. Our experts can help you with the reservation.

You can purchase official tickets to Torres del Paine National Park online, through the CONAF website or directly from our portal in the Tickets and Access to Torres del Paine National Park section.
On that page, you will find step-by-step instructions for purchasing tickets online, updated prices, the validation process at the gate, and recommendations for entry based on your date and type of visit.
Important: tickets are not sold in cash inside the park; purchases must be made in advance and the QR code must be presented upon entry.

There are daily buses during the season connecting Puerto Natales with the Laguna Amarga and Serrano / Pudeto gates, as well as private services. The trip takes approximately 2 hours, depending on conditions. Details and providers are available at How to get there.

The main entrances are Laguna Amarga, Serrano, and Lago Sarmiento. Choose based on your itinerary (Torres Base, Grey Navigation, Pehoé area, etc.).

There is no on-demand public transportation, but there are connecting buses to key points at fixed times (e.g., Puerto Natales ⇄ Porterías), a shuttle between Laguna Amarga and the Las Torres Welcome Center, and the catamaran that crosses Lake Pehoé between Pudeto and Paine Grande (widely used for the W). See options in Getting Around.

All three are the most iconic treks in Torres del Paine National Park, but they vary in duration, difficulty, and type of experience:
W Circuit: covers the Grey, French, and Base Torres valleys. It lasts between 4 and 5 days, with established shelters and campsites. Ideal for those looking for the essentials of the park.
Circuit O: completely circles the Paine massif, including the John Gardner Pass. It lasts 7 to 9 days, is more demanding, and offers a more challenging experience.
Hike to Base Torres: a one-day excursion from the Las Torres sector, with a demanding ascent and panoramic views of the iconic granite towers.
Find out which one best suits your trip in the Excursions and Trekking in Torres del Paine section.

It is not mandatory to hire a guide to do the W or O circuits, as both can be done self-guided. During the high season (October to February), the trails are well marked, there is an extensive network of park rangers, and up-to-date information on the routes can be obtained at the refuges and campsites.
Even so, it is recommended that you book a complete program to ensure accommodation, food, and transportation, as well as to receive a good introduction and briefing in Puerto Natales before starting the trek.
In winter, some areas may have restrictions and require an authorized guide. To plan your experience, you can review the programs and consult with expert operators such as GreatChile.

Camping outside of designated campsites is not permitted. You must reserve each night in advance.
Fires are prohibited: cooking is only allowed in designated areas. Unauthorized areas are monitored by CONAF.

On the official website, you will find the Maps section, where you can download updated maps with routes, walking times, temporary closures, and safety recommendations.
We recommend that you always carry a printed or downloaded version on your mobile device, as signal coverage is limited within the park and you will not always be able to access GPS or the internet.

There are refuges and campsites in the eastern (Las Torres) and western (Vértice) sectors, as well as hotels/lodges in the surrounding areas. Check availability by date and reservation policy at Refugios & Campings.

Yes. Puerto Natales offers a wide range of hotels and daily bus connections to the gates and excursion departure points.

No. Stock up in Puerto Natales (cash, fuel, food) and plan your logistics before entering.

The weather is variable, and the wind can be intense. Dress in layers, including a waterproof jacket, a coat, a hat/gloves, sunscreen, and hiking shoes. Bring a map, water, and food.

Yes. Trails have schedules and may close due to weather or safety; special regulations apply in winter. Confirm with park rangers before heading out.

Coverage is limited and varies by area. Do not rely on mobile data for navigation or emergencies.

It is recommended not to hike alone, record your plan, and respect marked routes and park ranger instructions. Most serious incidents occur off-trail.

Yes, there are sailing trips (e.g., Lago Grey) and guided activities depending on the season and weather. Check with the Maritime Routes and authorized operators.

In the Park Entrance section of the portal: step-by-step instructions for online purchase, validation at the gate, and entry recommendations.

Yes. There are short trails and viewpoints with easy access and guided programs. Adjust your itinerary, stay hydrated, and avoid exertion on windy or cold days. Review How to Get Around and Useful Information.