Torres del Paine from Calafate: Day Tour to Chilean Patagonia

If you're reading this, it's because you're about to discover one of the most iconic natural parks in the world, and yes, I'm talking about the Torres del Paine National Park! A natural gem located in the Chilean Patagonia, just a few kilometers away from El Calafate in Argentine Patagonia.

Torres del Paine is a sanctuary of the native nature of Patagonia, globally recognized for its breathtaking landscapes that include snow-covered mountains, glaciers, crystal-clear lakes and rivers, unique wildlife, and perfectly designed trails that allow you to fully immerse yourself in nature.

One of the easiest ways to get to Torres del Paine is with a day tour from El Calafate. This option is ideal for travelers planning to visit destinations such as Ushuaia, Bariloche, Puerto Madryn, and El Calafate before concluding their Patagonian trip in Chile. The good news is that you can either return to El Calafate or stay in Torres del Paine! I’ll explain this more in detail later.

Learn how to get to Torres del Paine from Calafate and spend a full day in Chilean Patagonia! / South Road

Why choose a day tour to Torres del Paine?

This tour is perfect for travelers who have limited time to explore Chilean Patagonia but still want to enjoy the best of Torres del Paine. You’ll visit the park’s most iconic spots in one day, accompanied by a professional guide who will detail every part of the journey, taking you through routes that you might not have been able to explore on your own.

One-day itinerary in Torres del Paine

We start early by picking you up from your hotel in El Calafate. We’ll take Route 11 towards La Esperanza and reach the Cancha Carrera border post.

>We’ll make several stops, some where we’ll stay in the vehicle and others where we’ll step out to enjoy views of lakes, waterfalls, and local wildlife such as foxes, guanacos, and, if we’re lucky, pumas.

>We’ll visit key spots from which we’ll begin hikes to viewpoints offering panoramic views of the park’s main attractions.

The tour includes Laguna Amarga, from where you can see the iconic Torres del Paine, and additional viewpoints such as Laguna de los Cisnes and the Upper Nordenskjold Viewpoint.

>We’ll continue to Puerto Pudeto, the starting point for the hike to Salto Grande. If time permits, we’ll walk along the coast of Lago Pehoe to reach the lower viewpoint of the Cuernos del Paine, the French Valley, Monte Paine Grande, and Almirante Nieto.

We’ll take a break while you enjoy a delicious snack surrounded by the best Patagonian landscapes. We’ll then begin the journey back to El Calafate.

Learn all the details of this one-day tour to Torres del Paine from El Calafate and book quickly, easily, and hassle-free!

Take the best pictures overlooking the lakes and mountains of Torres del Paine with this day tour! / source

Options to consider if you decide to stay in Chilean Patagonia

With this tour, you have the freedom to choose where you want to end the service. Currently, there are several options to consider if you want to extend your stay in Chilean Patagonia:

• Return to El Calafate: This is the most popular option for travelers. The tour ends back at your hotel in El Calafate on the same day. You also have the option to return the next day; however, it’s recommended to check availability first with the agency you book with.
• Stay in Laguna Amarga, Chile: An ideal spot for taking incredible photos and finding nearby campsites to continue exploring Torres del Paine. Approximate arrival time: 4:00 PM.
• Stay in Pehoe, Explora, or Pudeto, Chile: Here you’ll find other campsites where you can explore other parts of the national park. Approximate arrival time: 1:00 PM.
• Reach Puerto Natales: If your goal is to continue your adventure through Chilean Patagonia, you can opt to travel to Puerto Natales and continue your journey from there.

Get to know the most emblematic places of Torres del Paine with this day tour from Calafate / source

What should I consider when visiting Torres del Paine from El Calafate?

Migration Requirements and Park Entry: Take the necessary precautions for this tour and comply with the required documents according to your nationality to ensure a hassle-free excursion. We recommend purchasing your park tickets online in advance.

The best time to visit Torres del Paine: The park is ideal to visit year-round, but here are some recommendations: Spring - Summer: The weather is more stable, with long days and pleasant temperatures. Fall: Offers colorful landscapes with fewer tourists. Winter: Ideal for those seeking a quieter environment, although temperatures are much colder.

Park Trails: Check the condition of the trails if you want to visit Torres del Paine on your own here and book campsites in advance where you plan to stay. Avoid unpleasant surprises before deciding to stay in the park.

Don't forget to visit Torres del Paine from Calafate with transfer, snack and guide included! / South Road

Experience the magic of Chilean Patagonia!

Embark on an exciting full-day excursion from El Calafate to Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and stunning waterfalls. A unique, must-do experience in Patagonia that will capture your heart!