Torres Del Paine Geography
Around 12 million years ago, lava pushed up throuigh the sedimentary crust of southwest South America and cooled to form a granite mass. Glaciers then came through the region and ground away all but the towers of Paine (Cuernos del Paine = Paine Horns), pronounced Pie-Nay, and meaning blue in the old Tehuelche language.
The park was established in 1959 and is comprised of 934 square miles and is a hikers paradise with turquois, aquamarine and emerald lakes, and abundant wildlife.
There are three entrances to the park and there is an entrance fee of $35 US. The long “W-Route” takes four days to hike but there are easier day hikes. The challenge it the constantly changing weather.
Around 12 million years ago, lava pushed up throuigh the sedimentary crust of southwest South America and cooled to form a granite mass. Glaciers then came through the region and ground away all but the towers of Paine (Cuernos del Paine = Paine Horns), pronounced Pie-Nay, and meaning blue in the old Tehuelche language.
The park was established in 1959 and is comprised of 934 square miles and is a hikers paradise with turquois, aquamarine and emerald lakes, and abundant wildlife.
There are three entrances to the park and there is an entrance fee of $35 US. The long “W-Route” takes four days to hike but there are easier day hikes. The challenge it the constantly changing weather.
Travel to Punta Arenas
We left the Hotel Orly in Santiago at 5:50 am and our driver took us to the airport without encountering any significan vehicular traffic. This is Latin America and it seems that most inhabitants don’t get up at this hour. The moon was full and it was a rapid transport, about 25 minutes.
Inside the airport, it was very busy with a myriad of travelers crowding to the various airline desks. We easily found Sky Airlines and checked in with our luggage without problems. Since we missed our included breakfast at the Hotel Orly, we found a place that served breakfast for about 13,000 pesos for two. It included two eggs, toast, bacon, strawberry juice and good coffee. With tip, it came to 15,000 pesos ($25 US).
Getting through the security lines is very rapid. You don’t remove your shoes but need to place outer clothing in a bin. You don’t remove your computer…just leave it in you computer bag. You must remove your watch and place it in a tray. Basically you walk through a metal detector that Earline always sets off because of her artificial knee prosthesis.
There are three levels of departure and they bus you to your airplane.
It was a little confusing when you go to a gate and see that the plane is scheduled for departure at the time you expect but it is going to a different place. What we didn’t know was that the plane first stopped at Puerto Mont and then continues on to Punta Arenas. You only get one boarding ticket but there are hidden on it, two seat assignments, one for each leg. You seat for example would be listed as 1B/1B meaning you get the same seat on both legs.
We arrived at Punto Arenas at 1:15 pm and were met by a driver from the Hotel Serrano named Ricardo. Recardo was kind of hidden in the crowd and we had to go looking for him. Earline must have been having low blood sugars because she said to Ricardo, WTF (not the abbreviations) and didn’t redalize that he understood English. That set a kind a bad prescedent for the long transport to the Hotel Serrano.
We waited for another couple and then the four of us were transported. Ricardo unfortunately must be a latent DJ because for nearly 5 hours, he played music with the same booming bass and rhythm that drove Earline insane. She asked him if there was a radio on and Ricardo turned it up. When Earline later asked if there could be some silence, Ricardo said no, very emphatically.
Now when I saw how far and under what conditions Ricardo had to drive to get us to perhaps the remotest hotel I have ever stayed in, I can understand his need to have some type of pulse to his life. It was like driving from Santa Cruz to San Diego and back on bumpy, unpaved roads.
Needless to say, by the time we got to the hotel at 6:15 pm, we were badly in need of a glass of wine or Scotch. This is a beautiful hotel and it is all inclusive. Food, excursions and open bar add to the exceptional geographic setting. Hopefully, it will not be too rainy for my birthday tomorrow. Already the wind is blowing and it is raining and we are scheduled to take a boat ride to the Grey Glacier and later in the day have a hike for 1/2 of a day. On Sunday, we will plan two 1/2 day hikes.
The food at this hotel is a buffet but it is delicious the decor is wonderful. I would highly recommend this place to you should you come to this remote area of the world.
Inside the airport, it was very busy with a myriad of travelers crowding to the various airline desks. We easily found Sky Airlines and checked in with our luggage without problems. Since we missed our included breakfast at the Hotel Orly, we found a place that served breakfast for about 13,000 pesos for two. It included two eggs, toast, bacon, strawberry juice and good coffee. With tip, it came to 15,000 pesos ($25 US).
Getting through the security lines is very rapid. You don’t remove your shoes but need to place outer clothing in a bin. You don’t remove your computer…just leave it in you computer bag. You must remove your watch and place it in a tray. Basically you walk through a metal detector that Earline always sets off because of her artificial knee prosthesis.
There are three levels of departure and they bus you to your airplane.
It was a little confusing when you go to a gate and see that the plane is scheduled for departure at the time you expect but it is going to a different place. What we didn’t know was that the plane first stopped at Puerto Mont and then continues on to Punta Arenas. You only get one boarding ticket but there are hidden on it, two seat assignments, one for each leg. You seat for example would be listed as 1B/1B meaning you get the same seat on both legs.
We arrived at Punto Arenas at 1:15 pm and were met by a driver from the Hotel Serrano named Ricardo. Recardo was kind of hidden in the crowd and we had to go looking for him. Earline must have been having low blood sugars because she said to Ricardo, WTF (not the abbreviations) and didn’t redalize that he understood English. That set a kind a bad prescedent for the long transport to the Hotel Serrano.
We waited for another couple and then the four of us were transported. Ricardo unfortunately must be a latent DJ because for nearly 5 hours, he played music with the same booming bass and rhythm that drove Earline insane. She asked him if there was a radio on and Ricardo turned it up. When Earline later asked if there could be some silence, Ricardo said no, very emphatically.
Now when I saw how far and under what conditions Ricardo had to drive to get us to perhaps the remotest hotel I have ever stayed in, I can understand his need to have some type of pulse to his life. It was like driving from Santa Cruz to San Diego and back on bumpy, unpaved roads.
Needless to say, by the time we got to the hotel at 6:15 pm, we were badly in need of a glass of wine or Scotch. This is a beautiful hotel and it is all inclusive. Food, excursions and open bar add to the exceptional geographic setting. Hopefully, it will not be too rainy for my birthday tomorrow. Already the wind is blowing and it is raining and we are scheduled to take a boat ride to the Grey Glacier and later in the day have a hike for 1/2 of a day. On Sunday, we will plan two 1/2 day hikes.
The food at this hotel is a buffet but it is delicious the decor is wonderful. I would highly recommend this place to you should you come to this remote area of the world.
Planned Activities at Torres Del Paine
Friday Mar 02: Transfer from Santiago de Chile hotel to Airport. (26 km, 30 minutes.)
Flight from Santiago de Chile to Punta Arenas-Private transfer from Punta Arenas to Torres del Paine (400 km, 5 hrs)
Flight H21 - Dep Santiago de Chile 9:00am. Arr Punta Arenas 1:15pm
Sky Airline flight 1 Santiago SCL 9:00am (local time) - Punta Arenas PUQ 1:15pm (local time) Confirmation number: 74862
HOTEL
Hotel Río Serrano
Rooms: 1 Standard Room (Double) Meals: Breakfast
Phone: +56 (0) 61 2224 181
Address: S/N Sector Río Serrano - Comuna, Torres del Paine , Chile
Website: www.hotelrioserrano.cl
Booking Ref # : 22509127
Spectacular views and authentic Chilean hospitality! Named after the meandering Serrano river, Hotel Rio Serrano offers comfort and serenity amidst the enchanting landscape of Torres del Paine. The interiors blend in rustic and modern style and the en suite rooms are equipped with central heating, telephones, safes, and minibars. Enjoy authentic cuisine at the Kaienk restaurant, and a variety of cocktails or fine local Chilean vintages? at the Dickson bar! This is a perfect spot to comfortably enjoy the Patagonian wild.
ROOM 1 Standard Room (Double)
MEALS Breakfast
STYLE Lodge
TORRES DEL PAINE
Sat Mar 03 - Sun Mar 04
Full day visit to Torres del Paine
4 Days: Mar 02 - Mar 05, 2018
Saturday Mar 03 - Sunday Mar 04: Full day visit to Torres del Paine
Mar 03: 3 hr Navigation to Grey Glacier in Torres del
TORRES DEL PAINE
Sat Mar 03 - Sun Mar 04
Full day visit to Torres del Paine
Explore the stunning Torres del Paine National Park with its diverse landscapes bestowed with incredible beauty. Once in the national park take a few short hikes to see its attractions such as the Nordenskjöld, (Formed by a melting glacier, this beautiful lake is a milky turquoise color, produced by the algae at the bottom ) Salto Grande Waterfalls, Pehoe Lake, and Lake Grey. With luck you will also be able to wildlife such as guanacos, Darwin Rheas and condors who call the park their home. During your tour admire the mighty Towers of Paine and Horns of Paine mountains which dominate horizon. Experience the grandeur and beauty for yourself and see why this national park is considered the crowning jewel of Patagonia. (Approximately from 09:00 to 17:00. Private Activity. Lunch Included.)
Sat Mar 03
3 hr Navigation to Grey Glacier in Torres del Paine in Group
A spectacular three hour boat ride across Lake Grey brings you up close to the icy highlight of Torres del Paine National Park, the imposing Glacier Grey. Admire this natural wonder, resplendent in its million shades of blue and white. (Duration 3 hours. Combined with your full day tour of Torres del Paine National Park. Group Navigation.)
Explore the stunning Torres del Paine National Park with its diverse landscapes bestowed with incredible beauty. Once in the national park take a few short hikes to see its attractions such as the Nordenskjöld, Salto Grande Waterfalls, Pehoe Lake, and Lake Grey. With luck you will also be able to wildlife such as guanacos, Darwin Rheas and condors who call the park their home. During your tour admire the mighty Towers of Paine and Horns of Paine mountains which dominate horizon. Experience the grandeur and beauty for yourself and see why this national park is considered the crowning jewel of Patagonia. (Approximately from 09:00 to 17:00. Private Activity. Lunch Included.)
Sat Mar 03
3 hr Navigation to Grey Glacier in Torres del Paine in Group
A spectacular three hour boat ride across Lake Grey brings you up close to the icy highlight of Torres del Paine National Park, the imposing Glacier Grey. Admire this natural wonder, resplendent in its million shades of blue and white. (Duration 3 hours. Combined with your full day tour of Torres del Paine National Park. Group Navigation.)
The 'crown jewel' of Chilean Patagonia, Torres del Paine National Park boasts untouched nature, serene blue lakes, majestic mountain landscapes and rich flora and fauna. The park is resplendent with beautiful trails taking you deep within the remote landscapes, making it the dream destination for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts.
Black Peaks & Glacier Sheets
One of the most defining characteristics of the Torres de Paine is the dark black rock that crowns the Los Cuernos del Paine (Horns of Paine). These massive peaks which rise up to over 8,530ft stuck out above the glaciers during the Ice Age.
The pointed granite peaks that weren’t covered or eroded by the glaciers retained their black color resulting in these unique and impressive dark tusks atop the Cuernos del Paine.
Evidence of glacial activity can be easily seen throughout the region of Torres del Paine and non are more impressive than the Grey Glacier. As part of the South Patagonian Ice Field which is one of the largest continental stretches of ice, this spectacular glacier covers an area of 100 sq. miles! No matter if it is windy, raining or brilliant sunshine, the black peaks of Los Cuernos and the ice of the Grey Glacier shine, impressing all those who pay them a visit!
♦ Rushing Waterfalls & Glistening Lagoons
The glacial waterfalls, lagoons and lakes with their electric blue colors against the dark granite slabs of the mountain peaks and the Patagonian sky, makes for an impressive contrast of colors. The Salto Grande waterfall is by far the most impressive due to the sheer force of the flow of water from the stunning Lake Nordenskjöld.
The eclectic blue color of the Salto Grande waterfall is mesmerizing as this large flow of water carries the sediment from the surrounding glacier fields.
The tranquil and glistening Blue Lagoon is surrounded by typical Patagonian hills and forest which are in great contrast to the azure blue of the water. The microclimate of the Blue Lagoon makes for the perfect place to spot and relax with temperatures in the summer reaching over 77 degrees Fahrenheit. The Laguna Azul extends all the way until Dixie Florence Island and due to its calmness acts as a perfect mirror showing off the magnificent silhouettes of Torres del Paine.
The Best of Patagonian Trekking
With incredible vistas, pure untouched nature and the fresh Patagonian mountain air, what could possibly be better than exploring Torres del Paine on one of the many treks.
One of our favorites is the trek to the Base of the Torres as you get impressive views of the famous three granite towers.
Passing interesting rock formations, glacial landscapes and Patagonian mountain forests, you reach a viewpoint at the end which is utterly breathtaking. With your camera at the ready you will be spoilt to views of the Paine Massif, the landscapes of Torres del Paine and Mount Almirante Nieto this is one of the best Patagonian treks you can experience.
Wildlife Spotting
It comes as no surprise that Torres del Paine is home to an abundance of fauna and flora typical of the Patagonian region. making wildlife spotting one of the top things to do in Torres del Paine.
From gliding condors, powerful eagles, elegant black-necked swans and colorful flamingos to the ostrich-like rheas; if you are a bird enthusiast, you will truly be spoiled for choice.
On the ground, guanacos (type of llama), foxes and skunks roam this beautiful area of Chile. As you happily snap away capturing the wildlife of Torres del Paine, you won’t be able to stop yourself from feeling jealous that they wake up surrounded by these impressive landscapes every day!
Flight from Santiago de Chile to Punta Arenas-Private transfer from Punta Arenas to Torres del Paine (400 km, 5 hrs)
Flight H21 - Dep Santiago de Chile 9:00am. Arr Punta Arenas 1:15pm
Sky Airline flight 1 Santiago SCL 9:00am (local time) - Punta Arenas PUQ 1:15pm (local time) Confirmation number: 74862
HOTEL
Hotel Río Serrano
Rooms: 1 Standard Room (Double) Meals: Breakfast
Phone: +56 (0) 61 2224 181
Address: S/N Sector Río Serrano - Comuna, Torres del Paine , Chile
Website: www.hotelrioserrano.cl
Booking Ref # : 22509127
Spectacular views and authentic Chilean hospitality! Named after the meandering Serrano river, Hotel Rio Serrano offers comfort and serenity amidst the enchanting landscape of Torres del Paine. The interiors blend in rustic and modern style and the en suite rooms are equipped with central heating, telephones, safes, and minibars. Enjoy authentic cuisine at the Kaienk restaurant, and a variety of cocktails or fine local Chilean vintages? at the Dickson bar! This is a perfect spot to comfortably enjoy the Patagonian wild.
ROOM 1 Standard Room (Double)
MEALS Breakfast
STYLE Lodge
TORRES DEL PAINE
Sat Mar 03 - Sun Mar 04
Full day visit to Torres del Paine
4 Days: Mar 02 - Mar 05, 2018
Saturday Mar 03 - Sunday Mar 04: Full day visit to Torres del Paine
Mar 03: 3 hr Navigation to Grey Glacier in Torres del
TORRES DEL PAINE
Sat Mar 03 - Sun Mar 04
Full day visit to Torres del Paine
Explore the stunning Torres del Paine National Park with its diverse landscapes bestowed with incredible beauty. Once in the national park take a few short hikes to see its attractions such as the Nordenskjöld, (Formed by a melting glacier, this beautiful lake is a milky turquoise color, produced by the algae at the bottom ) Salto Grande Waterfalls, Pehoe Lake, and Lake Grey. With luck you will also be able to wildlife such as guanacos, Darwin Rheas and condors who call the park their home. During your tour admire the mighty Towers of Paine and Horns of Paine mountains which dominate horizon. Experience the grandeur and beauty for yourself and see why this national park is considered the crowning jewel of Patagonia. (Approximately from 09:00 to 17:00. Private Activity. Lunch Included.)
Sat Mar 03
3 hr Navigation to Grey Glacier in Torres del Paine in Group
A spectacular three hour boat ride across Lake Grey brings you up close to the icy highlight of Torres del Paine National Park, the imposing Glacier Grey. Admire this natural wonder, resplendent in its million shades of blue and white. (Duration 3 hours. Combined with your full day tour of Torres del Paine National Park. Group Navigation.)
Explore the stunning Torres del Paine National Park with its diverse landscapes bestowed with incredible beauty. Once in the national park take a few short hikes to see its attractions such as the Nordenskjöld, Salto Grande Waterfalls, Pehoe Lake, and Lake Grey. With luck you will also be able to wildlife such as guanacos, Darwin Rheas and condors who call the park their home. During your tour admire the mighty Towers of Paine and Horns of Paine mountains which dominate horizon. Experience the grandeur and beauty for yourself and see why this national park is considered the crowning jewel of Patagonia. (Approximately from 09:00 to 17:00. Private Activity. Lunch Included.)
Sat Mar 03
3 hr Navigation to Grey Glacier in Torres del Paine in Group
A spectacular three hour boat ride across Lake Grey brings you up close to the icy highlight of Torres del Paine National Park, the imposing Glacier Grey. Admire this natural wonder, resplendent in its million shades of blue and white. (Duration 3 hours. Combined with your full day tour of Torres del Paine National Park. Group Navigation.)
The 'crown jewel' of Chilean Patagonia, Torres del Paine National Park boasts untouched nature, serene blue lakes, majestic mountain landscapes and rich flora and fauna. The park is resplendent with beautiful trails taking you deep within the remote landscapes, making it the dream destination for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts.
Black Peaks & Glacier Sheets
One of the most defining characteristics of the Torres de Paine is the dark black rock that crowns the Los Cuernos del Paine (Horns of Paine). These massive peaks which rise up to over 8,530ft stuck out above the glaciers during the Ice Age.
The pointed granite peaks that weren’t covered or eroded by the glaciers retained their black color resulting in these unique and impressive dark tusks atop the Cuernos del Paine.
Evidence of glacial activity can be easily seen throughout the region of Torres del Paine and non are more impressive than the Grey Glacier. As part of the South Patagonian Ice Field which is one of the largest continental stretches of ice, this spectacular glacier covers an area of 100 sq. miles! No matter if it is windy, raining or brilliant sunshine, the black peaks of Los Cuernos and the ice of the Grey Glacier shine, impressing all those who pay them a visit!
♦ Rushing Waterfalls & Glistening Lagoons
The glacial waterfalls, lagoons and lakes with their electric blue colors against the dark granite slabs of the mountain peaks and the Patagonian sky, makes for an impressive contrast of colors. The Salto Grande waterfall is by far the most impressive due to the sheer force of the flow of water from the stunning Lake Nordenskjöld.
The eclectic blue color of the Salto Grande waterfall is mesmerizing as this large flow of water carries the sediment from the surrounding glacier fields.
The tranquil and glistening Blue Lagoon is surrounded by typical Patagonian hills and forest which are in great contrast to the azure blue of the water. The microclimate of the Blue Lagoon makes for the perfect place to spot and relax with temperatures in the summer reaching over 77 degrees Fahrenheit. The Laguna Azul extends all the way until Dixie Florence Island and due to its calmness acts as a perfect mirror showing off the magnificent silhouettes of Torres del Paine.
The Best of Patagonian Trekking
With incredible vistas, pure untouched nature and the fresh Patagonian mountain air, what could possibly be better than exploring Torres del Paine on one of the many treks.
One of our favorites is the trek to the Base of the Torres as you get impressive views of the famous three granite towers.
Passing interesting rock formations, glacial landscapes and Patagonian mountain forests, you reach a viewpoint at the end which is utterly breathtaking. With your camera at the ready you will be spoilt to views of the Paine Massif, the landscapes of Torres del Paine and Mount Almirante Nieto this is one of the best Patagonian treks you can experience.
Wildlife Spotting
It comes as no surprise that Torres del Paine is home to an abundance of fauna and flora typical of the Patagonian region. making wildlife spotting one of the top things to do in Torres del Paine.
From gliding condors, powerful eagles, elegant black-necked swans and colorful flamingos to the ostrich-like rheas; if you are a bird enthusiast, you will truly be spoiled for choice.
On the ground, guanacos (type of llama), foxes and skunks roam this beautiful area of Chile. As you happily snap away capturing the wildlife of Torres del Paine, you won’t be able to stop yourself from feeling jealous that they wake up surrounded by these impressive landscapes every day!