How to Plan Your Puerto Natales: Base of the Towers Trekking Experience

Are you looking for an adventure that takes you to the heart of Patagonia? Puerto Natales has everything you could wish for and more. If you love exploring nature, trekking through untouched landscapes, and discovering new outdoor activities, the Base of the Towers Trekking Experience is perfect for you. In this post, we will walk you through how to plan your Puerto Natales trekking experience.

Experience

The Base of the Towers Trekking Experience is a challenging but rewarding full-day hike to the Base of the Towers viewpoint in Torres del Paine National Park. The tour includes a two-hour drive from Puerto Natales to Hotel Las Torres, followed by a safety briefing from your guide before you begin the trek.

Highlights

During your trek, you will enjoy incredible views of the three towers at the Base of the Towers viewpoint, one of the most spectacular views in the world. Additionally, you will go forest trekking at Torres del Paine and view pristine landscapes and mountains.

Full Description

After reaching Hotel Las Torres, the trekking experience begins with a steep hike up into the Asencio River Valley, where you can admire the beautiful landscape. Two hours later, you will arrive at El Chileno, a camping site where the hike continues through a dense forested area. This area also features a small stream flowing from the Almirante Nieto peak.

The trail leads to a moraine, where the slope becomes steeper until you reach the Paine Towers viewpoint, which sits at 890 meters above sea level. This viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the three towers, and after enjoying the view, you will take some time to have lunch and rest before the return journey.

The return trek follows the same path, and weather permitting, you can observe one of the most spectacular views worldwide. The entire trek takes approximately ten hours, making it a full-day hike.

How to Plan Your Puerto Natales Trekking Experience

Planning your Base of the Towers Trekking Experience is easier than you might think. Here’s how:

1. Book your tour

Booking your tour is the first step to planning your trekking experience. You can book the Base of the Towers Trekking Experience through GetYourGuide.com. The link to book the tour is: book the tour here.

2. Choose the right time of year

Torres del Paine National Park is open throughout the year, but the best time to visit is from November to March when the days are longer, and the weather is milder.

3. Pack the right gear

You will be trekking in a remote area, so it is essential to pack the right gear to ensure you have a pleasant experience. Comfortable hiking boots, warm clothing, sunblock, a hat, and sunglasses are must-haves for this trek.

4. Be prepared for the terrain

The terrain can be challenging, and there will be steep inclines, so it is essential to be prepared. Prioritize your safety – always listen to your guide’s instructions and watch your step.

5. Be responsible

While it is always acceptable to engage in outdoor activities, it is essential to be responsible. Reduce your environmental impact by packing everything out, respect the local wildlife, and stay on the designated trails.

Conclusion

With this guide, you can confidently plan your Puerto Natales trekking experience to the Base of the Towers viewpoint. From choosing the appropriate gear and packing accordingly to following the proper safety precautions and being responsible in the great outdoors, you can have an unforgettable adventure. Book your tour today and explore one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Insider’s Guide to Puerto Natales: Base of the Towers Trekking Experience

Puerto Natales is a hidden gem that offers a unique experience to travelers who are looking to explore the beauty of Patagonia. Home to the base of the Torres Del Paine massif, this quaint town serves as the entry point for trekking in the Torres Del Paine National Park. Let’s go off the beaten path and explore some hidden gems and unique experiences that will make your trip to Puerto Natales unforgettable.

Local Attractions

While the Torres Del Paine trek is the most famous attraction in the region, there are some hidden gems in Puerto Natales that are worth exploring. One of them is the Milodon Cave, located just outside the town. This cave houses the remains of a prehistoric herbivorous mammal known as Milodon, which roamed the region over 10,000 years ago. The guided tour inside the cave is an informative and unique experience.

Another hidden gem is the Almirante Montt Gulf, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains. Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, and enjoy the peacefulness of the bay. You can also spot local sea birds, such as cormorants and pelicans.

Dining Spots

Puerto Natales is known for its seafood cuisine, which is fresh and delicious. Amongst the must-try dishes are the king crab, curanto (a traditional seafood-based dish), and the famous Chilean empanadas. However, if you want to try something different, head to Afrigonia, which serves a fusion of African and Chilean cuisine. You can try the ostrich steak or the cape gooseberry sauce to make your dining experience unique.

Cultural Experiences

The city’s most famous cultural event is the Sea Festival (Fiesta del Mar), which is held in January. This festival celebrates the city’s coastal heritage with cultural shows, street parades, and fireworks. During this time, the city comes alive with music, dance, and food, and it’s the perfect time to experience the local culture.

Another cultural experience not to be missed is visiting a traditional Patagonian ranch and learning about its history. You can even take a horseback ride and explore the countryside, which will give you another perspective on the region’s natural beauty.

Local History

One of the most fascinating stories from Puerto Natales’ past is about the rise and fall of the sheep industry. In the early 20th century, the sheep industry was the heart of the city’s economy, with over 500,000 sheep in the region. However, with the introduction of synthetic fibers, the industry began to decline, and many sheep farms were abandoned. You can still see the remnants of these farms on the outskirts of the town.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a unique and off-the-beaten-track experience, take a day trip to the beautiful Balmaceda Glacier. You can take a boat trip through the Last Hope Sound and marvel at the stunning glaciers and icy fjords. This is a breathtaking and unique experience that you won’t forget.

Another unique experience is visiting Puerto Bories, a beautiful and abandoned town just outside the city center. This town was built during the sheep industry boom and was home to several sheep farms. However, due to the decline in the industry, the town is abandoned, and many of the buildings remain intact. You can take a walk through the town and see the old warehouses, factories, and homes, which provide a glimpse into the town’s rich history.

In conclusion, Puerto Natales is a destination that offers much more than just the Torres Del Paine trek. With hidden gems, excellent dining spots, unique cultural experiences, captivating history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, the city is a treasure trove that will leave you with unforgettable memories.