Welcome to Patagonia! Patagonia is one of the most amazing places in the world. A land with a lot of history, of mountains, lakes, hills, beautiful flora and fauna. A missionary called Padre Agostini said: "The Paine massif is unrivaled... In its colors and form it is without doubt one of the most fantastic and spectacular sights that human imagination can concieve." The Torres del Paine national park (with an area of 2,400 km2) is a popular hiking destination. There are clearly marked paths and many refugios which provide shelter and basic services. Views are breathtaking. Hikers can opt for a day trip to see the towers, walk the popular "W" route in about five days, or trek the full circle in 8-9 days. It is a national park and thus hikers are not allowed to stray from the paths. Camping is only allowed at specified campsites, and wood fires are prohibited in the whole park. Many visitors come each year to Torres del Paine National park. Even though you may come whenever you like official season is from september to april. There are many strong reasons people keeps coming. The beautiful fauna and flora are a delight. A relative of the now-domesticated llama, the guanaco -- Patagonia's largest land vertebrate -- roams the plains of Torres del Paine. Guanacos live in groups, usually a single dominant male accompanied by up to 10 females and their young. Though elegantly formed creatures, guanacos exhibit a number of seemingly incongruous habits. When they greet, for example, the animals exchange a turkey-like gobble and then, on occasion, vomit a wad of semi-masticated grasses. There many miles of trails for backpackers, from pristine glaciers and fjords of remote to the famous Torres del Paine W Trail with the amazing view of the Cuernos del Paine and the Nordenksjold, Pehoe and Grey Lakes. It is a medium level hike and usually takes four days. Torres del Paine National Park Trail system has land and water-based trails with recognized recreational, scenic, and historic value. Do not forget to sail on the Grey II, a small ship that sails twice everyday to the vey feet of Grey glaciers where you will have a whisky on the rocks with millenial ices. WHEN TO GO: September to April are the best months to visit for warmer time activities. You can check next week weather forecast for Punta Arenas here. GETTING THERE: There are many direct or one-stop flights from major cities to Santiago de Chile and then at least 3 daily flights to Punta Arenas which is 4 hours from Santiago de Chile (2000 miles). To travel by water you can take a cruise to Puerto Natales from Puerto Montt in an amazing 3 day trip by south channels. TRAVEL TIPS: Southern weather can be unpredictable. Consider taking with you and wearing multiple layers of clothes in response to a wide variety of temperatures and weather conditions. Experiencing Patagonia on a low budget is possible, though it requires planning. From december to february room prices are higher. September and April are more relaxed and the weather only slightly chillier, are just as good times to go. Winter months are becoming increasingly popular, particularly for the sport activities. At this time of year hotel rates drop by as much as half. Enjoy patagonia! |
