Torres del Paine in winter: six epic adventures

Torres del Paine winter activities
Explore the rugged and wild landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park in the winter season between May and October

Many visitors think southern Patagonia is only accessible in the summer but with near empty trails, snow dusted peaks and a higher chance of windless days the area is highly appealing as a winter destination. The Torres del Paine National Park is open all year, with a few restrictions. Winter visitors can embark on unforgettable adventures such as hiking the popular W trail (with a guide) or snow shoeing through ancient forests. There is a higher chance of spotting elusive wildlife such as pumas in their snowy habitats in winter and of course for photographers, the soft winter light presents unlimited opportunities.

Here are our favourite activities for winter time in and around Torres del Paine. These can be arranged on a custom basis between May and October.

1. Patagonia Winter Photography & Wildlife Safari
Guided by a local expert this trip will give you the true Patagonian perspective while you observe the plentiful bird and animal life in this magnificent winter landscape. This trip is the epitome of slow travel as you quietly journey across the Patagonian landscapes at a pace set by yourself and your travel companions. Photographers and nature lovers will benefit from the soft winter light and dramatic scenery, while the crisp air and tranquil silence add a sense of intimacy and connection with the wilderness that is hard to find during the busier summer season.

2. Puma Tracking
Visiting Torres del Paine in the winter months between May and October offers a rare and rewarding opportunity to observe the elusive pumas in their natural habitat. During these quieter periods, the park sees significantly fewer visitors, creating a more serene and undisturbed environment for wildlife watching. This combined with the thinning vegetation and snow-dusted landscapes increases the chances of spotting pumas as they roam the valleys and foothills in search of prey.

3. Snow Shoes Hiking (snow permitting)!
Don snow shoes (or raquetas) and set out with your expert guide as you venture beyond the usual paths and into some of southern Patagonia’s lesser known winter landscapes. The snowshoes provide access to areas that can otherwise be difficult to reach in winter, revealing a quieter side of the park that few get to experience. The silence becomes part of the journey, punctuated only by the crunch of snow and the distant calls of wildlife. This is a chance to connect deeply with the landscape, take in panoramic winter vistas and enjoy the solitude and majesty of Torres del Paine at its most peaceful.

4. Taking the Grey Boat to Grey Glacier*
Taking the Grey Boat across Lago Grey in winter is a dramatic and unforgettable way to experience the wild beauty of the western side of the Park. While the service runs on a reduced schedule between April and October, the journey is no less spectacular—if anything, the winter light, moody skies and snow-covered peaks add a layer of raw intensity to the scenery. Navigating past floating icebergs toward the face of the glacier enables guests to witness the scale and power of Patagonia’s ice up close. *Departures are subject to a minimum number of participants.

5. Kayaking
Kayaking in Torres del Paine during winter is a memorable experience that allows novice or experienced kayakers to explore Patagonia’s wild waterways from a rare perspective. The kayaking location will be decided according to the the weather conditions at the time of travel. Accompanied by expert guides and dressed in proper cold-weather gear you can safely explore these remote waters while taking in the surreal beauty of snow-covered mountains and dramatic winter light.

6. Hiking
Torres del Paine offers world class hiking at any time of the year and winter should not be ruled out. Novice hikers can explore moderate trails packed with wildlife and jaw dropping views. Fit, adventurous hikers can still hike many of the Park’s classic trails but with the security and comfort of hiking with an experienced guide. Whether you are embarking on the iconic but challenging trail to the base of the Towers or one of many moderate trails on the periphery, rest assured that all the details will be taken care of by our local logistics team in Puerto Natales leaving you free to relax and enjoy the adventure.

Our Winter Travel page will give you more ideas.