Puerto Natales: Base of the Towers Day Hike – An Unforgettable Experience

Are you planning a trip to Puerto Natales and wondering what’s there to see and do? Look no further. The Puerto Natales: Base of the Towers Day Hike is a must-do activity for any adventure seeker visiting Patagonia.

What is the Puerto Natales: Base of the Towers Day Hike?

The Puerto Natales: Base of the Towers Day Hike is a day trip in Chile where you’ll hike through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Patagonia. Your adventure starts in the charming city of Puerto Natales, where you’ll meet your guide and embark on a 2-hour scenic drive to Torres del Paine National Park.

Upon arrival, you’ll start your hike towards the Base of the Towers, which is the most iconic viewpoint in the park. You’ll trek through lush forests, cross over rivers, and climb rocky terrain before reaching the base of the towers.

The Towers themselves are three massive granite peaks that rise high above the surrounding landscape. Witnessing these behemoths up close is an awe-inspiring experience that’s sure to stay with you for a lifetime.

Who can take part in this activity?

The Puerto Natales: Base of the Towers Day Hike is suitable for adventurers of all skill levels. While the hike is physically challenging, you don’t need any prior experience to complete it. All you need is a good level of fitness and a thirst for adventure.

Please note that the hike covers a distance of approximately 18 kilometers (11.18 miles), with an elevation gain of 900 meters (2952 feet). The trail is well marked, and your guide will be with you throughout the hike to provide guidance and support.

What should I bring with me?

As you’ll be hiking in the Patagonian wilderness, it’s crucial to be fully prepared for the adventure ahead. Here are some essential items you should bring with you:

• Hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes
• Warm clothing, including gloves and a hat
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect you from the sun
• A waterproof jacket and pants in case of rain
• A small backpack to carry your water, snacks, and camera

Don’t worry if you forget any of these items, as they can be rented or purchased in Puerto Natales.

Where can I book the Puerto Natales: Base of the Towers Day Hike?

You can book the Puerto Natales: Base of the Towers Day Hike through this link. This comprehensive day trip includes transportation from Puerto Natales, an experienced guide, and all necessary equipment.

Don’t miss the chance to explore one of the most beautiful and rugged landscapes in the world. Book the Puerto Natales: Base of the Towers Day Hike now and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Additional Tips for Travelers

When Is the Best Time to Visit Puerto Natales?

The best time to visit Puerto Natales is during the summer months (December to March). During this time, the weather is warmer, and the days are longer, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking. However, it’s also the busiest time of the year, so make sure to book your accommodation and activities well in advance to avoid any disappointment.

What are Some Other Must-See Attractions in Puerto Natales?

Puerto Natales is a picturesque city that’s surrounded by natural wonders. Apart from the Base of the Towers Day Hike, there are several other must-see attractions in the area. These include:

• Grey Glacier
• Mylodon Cave Natural Monument
• Sierra Dorotea
• The Milodon Sculpture Trail
• Ultima Esperanza Sound

If you have time, we recommend exploring these attractions and discovering the unique beauty of Puerto Natales.

Final Thoughts

If you’re an adventure seeker who loves to hike, the Puerto Natales: Base of the Towers Day Hike is an activity you cannot miss. Apart from witnessing the iconic towers up close, you’ll also get to experience the natural beauty of Patagonia like never before.

Don’t wait any longer. Book this unforgettable experience today and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Insider’s Guide to Puerto Natales

Puerto Natales is a charming city in southern Chile known for its proximity to the stunning Torres del Paine National Park. While the park is undoubtedly a highlight of the area, there are many other hidden gems that only locals know about. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take a deeper look at Puerto Natales and explore the city’s lesser-known attractions, cuisine, cultural experiences, history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

When most people think of Puerto Natales, they immediately think of Torres del Paine. However, the city itself has plenty of hidden gems. One such gem is the Ether Aike Artisan Village, located just outside of town. Here, you can watch local artisans create traditional handicrafts, including pottery, weaving, and woodcarving. Don’t forget to pick up some unique souvenirs to take home!

Another must-visit spot is the Mirador Dorotea lookout. It offers stunning views of the fjords, glaciers, and mountains that surround Puerto Natales. The hike to the top is relatively easy, and you’ll likely have the view all to yourself.

For a more immersive experience, take a day trip to the Ultima Esperanza Sound. This off-the-beaten-path destination is known for its stunning turquoise waters, craggy coastline, and abundant wildlife. You can take a boat tour or go kayaking and witness dolphins, sea lions, and even penguins in their natural habitat.

Dining Spots

Chilean cuisine is unique and diverse, and Puerto Natales is no exception. The city is known for its lamb dishes, which are slow-cooked in an open fire pit, giving them a smoky and rich flavor. One place to try this delicacy is Don Jorge Restaurant, which also features a charming, rustic decor that feels like you’re dining in someone’s home.

For a taste of local seafood, head to El Huerto. This restaurant serves up fresh and exotic fish dishes, such as sea urchin risotto, ceviche, and crab empanadas. The ingredients are sourced straight from the sea, and the flavors are simply divine.

Cultural Experiences

Puerto Natales has a rich cultural heritage and is home to many indigenous communities, including Aonikenk and Kaweskar. To experience their way of life, visit the Museo Histórico Municipal, which contains artifacts and exhibits about the region’s history, culture, and people.

Another cultural highlight is the yearly Fiesta Criolla, a traditional gaucho festival that celebrates the local ranching and farming communities. It features horseriding, barbecue, and live music and dancing.

Local History

Puerto Natales has a fascinating history, not just in relation to Torres del Paine but also as one of the main ports in southern Chile. One interesting fact is that the city was once a hot spot for smugglers, who brought in goods from across the border in Argentina. You can learn more about this illicit trade at the Museo de la Historia de Natales.

Another captivating aspect of Puerto Natales’s past is its role in the wool and sheep industry. The city’s sheep-shearing factory was once the largest in the world, and the wool was exported globally. Today, you can still see remnants of this industry throughout the city, such as the old wool storage building, which has now been converted into a modern art museum.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

While Torres del Paine is undoubtedly a must-visit destination in southern Chile, there are many other off-the-beaten-path suggestions to consider. One such place is the Milodon Cave Natural Monument, located just outside of Puerto Natales. Here, you can explore a network of caves that once housed giant sloths and saber-toothed tigers. The highlight is the 6-meter long skeleton of a prehistoric giant sloth.

Another unique experience is a visit to the nearby Puerto Bories, a former industrial hub that has been converted into a cultural center and luxury hotel. The complex includes the historic Bories cold storage plant, an old sheep-shearing factory, and the nearby Estancia La Península, a stunning Patagonian ranch where you can go horseback riding or hiking.

In conclusion, Puerto Natales has something for everyone, from its hidden gems to its culinary delights, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions. We hope this insider’s guide has inspired you to explore this charming city and discover the many treasures it has to offer.