Mirador Las Torres in one day: how to get from Puerto Natales by bus or car and not to lose
Mirador Las Torres is one of the most famous and impressive trails. ChileThree granite towers above the turquoise lake inspire many travelers.
You can climb to the observation room as part of a multi-day W-track (4-5 days), and make a day hike - even without a car, arriving from Puerto Natales.
Briefly on route data
- Length (round-trip): 20 km (12.5 mi)
- Altitude gain: 1,015 m (3,325 ft)
- Maximum height: 870 m (2,860 ft)
- Travel time: 6-10 hours
- Complexity: high
(These are total parameters for one-day output)
How to get to Torres Del Paine
The nearest airport is Puerto Natales (PNT), with daily flights from Santiago and Puerto Mont. Also popular is the bus route from Argentina's El Calafate - I traveled this option: the journey takes about 6 hours and is quite comfortable.
From Puerto Natales to the beginning of the trail can be reached in three ways.
1) By car.
The most convenient and flexible option is renting a car. There are many distributors in the region; one of the recommended services is DiscoverCars. If the budget allows, you can stay at Hotel Las Torres - it is located right at the start of the trail. From Puerto Natales to the Torres Del Paine Welcome Center, about 2 hours by car.
2) With a tour.
If you do not want to think about logistics, take a one-day tour. GetYourGuide has a tour to Base Las Torres with a transfer from Puerto Natales and a bilingual guide - convenient and often inexpensive.
Plus: with a local guide, the hike becomes more informative and safer - it will tell you the optimal pace, nuances of the weather and the best angles for photos.
(3) Bus/shuttle (budget option)
The cheapest way to get there is by bus from Terminal Rodoviario to Puerto Natales. A round-trip ticket costs approximately CLP 28,000 (~30 USD) as of 2026; I recommend booking at least a month in advance. The first morning flight departs at 6:30–6:45 and arrives at the park (Laguna Amarga stop) around 8:30–8:45 – take the earliest and the latest flight back to complete the route. Buses are comfortable, and the road, although with repair sites, is usually on schedule.
What to expect on the trail
The route requires strength and endurance, but the spectacle of three torres and a turquoise lake is worth it. The trail is conditionally divided into two parts:
- From trailhead to Refugio Chileno - gradual climb, rocky areas, picturesque views along the way.
From Refugio Chileno to Lake of the Towers, a cooler finale with the final ascent to the observation room, where a classic shot of the three towers above the lake opens.
Can I go on my own?
Yes - the trail is marked and popular, many pass it without a guide. But keep in mind: the weather in Patagonia is changeable, and having a local guide adds safety, local knowledge (short detours, weather windows, interesting stories and photo points) and saves energy - especially if you are not sure about navigation or the weather.
Best time to hike
The optimal months are spring and summer of the Southern Hemisphere: approximately October-April. At this time, the days are longer, there is less snow, but wind and rain are still possible - plan your time and equipment.
What to take with you.
- Reliable hiking shoes.
Laminated clothing (wind and insulation)
- Raincoat and replaceable gloves/cap
2-3 liters of water and food for the whole day (energy snacks)
- Sunglasses and cream
- Navigation / charged phone, first aid kit, headlamp
- Bus tickets / hotel or tour reservation confirmation
Little advice.
Book the bus in advance and choose the earliest departure flight.
If you have the opportunity, add a local guide to the plan: he turns a beautiful walk into a rich and safe experience.
Keep in mind that the trip takes all day: return to Puerto Natales is possible only if the bus schedule coincides.
This route is not easy, but one of those hikes for which Patagonia remains in memory forever.
You'll be welcomed in Chile.private guidesAnd they'll offer you a copy.individual excursions.
Text and photo:https://www.personalguide.ru/
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