Torres del Paine: South America's finest national park

I have been waiting for a long time to write this story. It is about one of the most beautiful and iconic landscapes that my country has to offer. There are no enough words to describe how breathtakingly beautiful the place is, although I will try my best. It has it all, some of the most beautiful views you can find in Chile: fauna, lakes, lagoons and rivers, but above all - adventure! Keep reading to discover South America's finest national park - Torres del Paine.

The National Park

The Torres del Paine is a national park in the Magallanes Region, in southern Chilean Patagonia. Paine comes from the native language Tehuelche and means "blue", while Torres is in Spanish "towers". So, it roughly means "blue towers", and if you look at the pictures of the place, it makes so much sense. The national park is huge with glaciers, mountains, lakes, rivers, among other interesting and beautiful landscapes that you can visit. If you like trekking, this is the place for you. 

The absolute icon of the national park, and the attraction that names it, is the Paine Massifs, especially the Peaks or Torres del Paine. These** three ancient granite peaks each have a unique name (from left to right) - Torre d'Agostini, Torre Central and Torre Monzino. **Some people use different names for them, but it is undeniable that they are breathtaking no matter how you call them. 

Grey Glacier

People say one of the most unforgettable things to see here are glaciers. They are wonderful and mysterious pieces of ice, as old as the earth. Who knows what secrets they hold inside? Maybe we will never know, but you can definitely visit and marvel at how pretty they are. The Grey Glacier is located within the park and is the highlight of your trip to "the end of the world". The glacier is part of the Southern Ice Fields (eternal ice of Chile) and the third biggest ice extension in the world. Its beauty is beyond words - everything you see is blue, white and bright! Not only you can see but also hear, breath and feel absolute peace.

Grey Lake

Next to the Grey Glacier is Grey Lake, one of the most magical and breathtaking views you can see in Chile. Prepare yourself for an experience that you will hold in your mind and heart forever. The lake is covered by ice sediment and has icebergs floating in it. Can you imagine? If you are into outdoor sports, this place is perfect for kayaking! 

W Circuit

W Circuit is a trekking circuit that tours you around the main touristic attractions of the Torres del Paine. It actually is the most popular trekking route in the country. The name of the circuit comes from the union of the three main areas the expedition goes through - the Ascencio Valley, French Valley and Grey Glacier Valley. Those places form a W shape when looked at from above. Obviously, you get to see the famous Paine Peaks and the most breathtaking views of lakes. As usual, you have to live this experience rather than read it, so I will keep the rest as a secret the traveler has to unveil. 

O Circuit

The biggest circuit for the most prepared ones is O Circuit. Why is it called O? Well, because the circuit is shaped like that, and it *surounds the whole Paine Massifs. *Basicaly, you can appreciate every beautiful landscape the place has to offer. It starts in the Ascencio Valley and surrounds the whole massifs. As every sacrifice comes with a reward, if you dare to take this long circuit, you will see nature as never before. I will not tell you too much because I do not want to spoil it. 

Tips for your trip

First of all, it is recommended to visit the park with a certified guide, to keep you in line with the national park restrictions, especially when you go on more adventurous routes. Check out this guided trekking to Torres del Paine National Park.

One of the restrictions I want to highlight is that the fire in non-authorized places is absolutely forbidden! Also, keep in mind that you can not feed the place's fauna or bring pets to the park. Follow the instructions given to you by your tour guide and enjoy safely. 

Special recommendations are in place for those who go trekking or on a circuit adventure. First, keep it light! Make sure your backpack has the basics and that it is light enough for you to carry for days. As I said before, you will be walking for days, so be sure you are physically prepared to endure the trekking adventure. The weather is cold and windy, do not forget this while preparing for your trip. 

Regarding camping in the park, there are free places to do so, but the spots are limited. So, do not just come and hope for the best, plan ahead. And finally, always share with family or friends the itinerary you schedule so they are aware of your whereabouts. 

Obviously, there is so much more in this national park, but I can not tell you every single thing you can do, see and experience there. However, I hope this story is a motivation for you to come and visit one of the marvels Chile has to offer. Welcome to South America's finest national park - Torres del Paine. Remember: you can read it and live it!