ashenNo hiking enthusiast would ever miss an opportunity to trek Torres Del Paine. What more can you ask for besides diverse wildlife, breathtaking scenery to feast the eyes and great camping locations? In this post, we will introduce some of the best campsites in Torres Del Paine, how to select based on your requirements, pricing and other useful tips. This park is famous for its granite towers (the “Torres”) that rise sharply from the earth, glacial lakes, and expansive grasslands. You definitely want to choose the right campsites in a hikers haven like this.
For the 2024-2025 hiking season in Torres del Paine, the main trekking circuits like the O and W Treks will be open as usual. The campsites along the O Circuit will start opening from November 1st, with some, like Camping Grey, opening earlier on October 1st. The season is ideal for experiencing the full beauty of the park, including the iconic Mirador Las Torres and the stunning Grey Glacier.
For the O Circuit, a full loop around the park, you can expect it to take anywhere from 6 to 9 days depending on your itinerary, covering approximately 110 kilometers. The trail has moderately challenging parts, and you’ll encounter steep ascents and variable weather. On the other hand, the W Trek is a shorter option if you are looking for a less demanding hike.
The entrance tickets to the park depend on the length of your stay. It’s $35 USD for adults and $17 USD for teens(12-17 years) if the visit is up to 3 days. For multi-day treks like the W or O circuit, it’s $49 USD for all. You can buy tickets online or at the park entrance. If buying in person at the park, only cash (CLP or USD) is accepted.
Campamento Central
The first and foremost as it is the closest campsite to the base of the tower’s trek. Located near the base of the trail to the iconic Base of the Towers viewpoint. It’s an excellent choice for trekkers tackling the iconic W Trek or as a base camp for day hikes. Prices vary based on whether you rent a tent, bring your own, or opt for meals. Typically around $8–$15 USD for camping and more for additional services. High season (November to March) requires reservation in advance. Campamento Central is located near the starting point of several trails, making it convenient for exploration. You can book through the Fantástico Sur website.
Campamento Francés
Campamento Francés is another scenic campsite in Torres del Paine National Park, situated along the iconic W Trek. It is ideally located for exploring the breathtaking French Valley, one of the most picturesque areas in the park. Nestled in the forest near the French Valley, between Campamento Italiano and Refugio Los Cuernos. Approximately 5.5–6 hours (13 km) from Paine Grande. Camping fees range from $10–$20 USD, depending on whether you rent equipment. Basic facilities with shared restrooms and cold showers, fresh water and covered area for cooking. Highlights nearby include French Valley (Valle del Francés) which is a must-see for hikers, with panoramic views of glaciers, mountains, and hanging icefalls, Lake Nordenskjöld and Los Cuernos Peaks.
Campamento Grey
Campamento Grey is one of the most stunning campsites in Torres del Paine National Park, located near the magnificent Grey Glacier. It serves as an endpoint for the W Trek or a key stop on the O Circuit, offering trekkers breathtaking views of the glacier and Grey Lake. Located near the western end of the W Trek, close to Grey Glacier and the shores of Grey Lake. Approximately a 4-hour hike (11 km) from Paine Grande. Close by attractions include the Grey Glacier, the suspension bridge and the iceberg views. Campsite fees range from $15–$30 USD, depending on whether you rent gear or bring your own.
Campamento Chileno
Next up is Campamento Chileno which again is one of the most popular campsites in Torres del Paine National Park, located along the trail to the Base of the Towers. Known for its stunning views and convenient location, it’s a favorite stop for trekkers tackling the W Trek or as a midway point for those heading to see the iconic granite towers at sunrise. Situated along the Base of the Towers trail, about 5.5 km (2–3 hours) from Refugio Las Torres and 3.5 km (2 hours) from the Base of the Towers viewpoint.
The valley scenery and base of the tower’s viewpoint is a must see here. Rates as usual depend on whether you book with meals and gear. Typically, prices range from $50–$80 USD per night. If you’re aiming to see the sunrise at the Base of the Towers, leave Campamento Chileno around 4:00 AM with a headlamp.
Campamento Los Cuernos
Campamento Los Cuernos is another favored stop for trekkers on the W Circuit. Situated at the base of the striking Los Cuernos peaks and adjacent to Lake Nordenskjöld, it offers breathtaking views and a convenient rest point between the French Valley and the Las Torres area. Campamento Los Cuernos is accessible via a 4.5-hour trek from the Las Torres area. It’s strategically positioned for those exploring the French Valley and serves as a midpoint on the W Circuit.
Campamento Dickson
Campamento Dickson is a notable campsite within the Torres del Paine National Park, situated along the renowned O Circuit trekking route. Positioned on the shores of Lake Dickson, it offers trekkers a serene environment amidst lush vegetation and stunning vistas. Campamento Dickson is accessible via trekking routes from Campamento Serón and Campamento Los Perros. It’s about 18 kilometers, taking about 6–7 hours of hiking from Serón and roughly 9 kilometers, with an estimated hiking time of 4–5 hours from Los Perros. Costs about US$11 per person if you are camping with your tent.
Campamento Paine Grande
Campamento Paine Grande, situated on the shores of Lake Pehoé, serves as a central hub for trekkers exploring the W Circuit. Its strategic location offers convenient access to notable trails leading to the French Valley and Glacier Grey. The facility accommodates up to 100 hikers across 22 dormitory rooms, featuring bunk beds configured for 2, 4, or 6 occupants. Guests can enjoy picturesque views of Lake Pehoé, the Paine Grande massif, the French Valley, or the eastern face of the Cuernos del Paine. Shared bathrooms are equipped with washbasins, toilets, and separate hot-water showers for men and women.
Due to its popularity, especially during peak trekking seasons, it’s recommended to secure reservations well in advance. Bookings can be made through the official Vértice Patagonia website. Trekkers can reach Paine Grande by foot from various points within the park, making it a central stop on the W Circuit. There is also a ferry service operating between Pudeto and Paine Grande, providing a scenic and efficient route to the campsite.
Refugio & Camping Torre Central
This is located along the well-known W trek in the heart of Torres del Paine National Park. Because it is located near the foot of the famous Torres del Paine towers and provides stunning views of the granite peaks, this campsite is among the most well-liked in the park. The location is a comfortable option for hikers because it has a variety of amenities, such as a cafeteria, a shelter, and hot showers. Dormitory beds cost between CLP 45,000 and CLP 55,000 per person per night during the peak season, while camping costs between CLP 15,000 and 18,000 per person per night. Prices may be a little lower during the off-peak months, giving tourists a more cost-effective choice.
Camping Italiano
Along the W trek , Camping Italiano is a more rustic and isolated campsite next to the French Valley (Valle del Francés). It is the perfect location for people looking for a more sedate and tranquil experience surrounded by majestic mountains because it provides easy access to one of the park’s most beautiful regions. Trekkers who want to experience the peace and quiet of the park while exploring the French Valley will love the campsite. Camping costs between CLP 12,000 and CLP 15,000 per person per night during the busiest times. Rates during the off-peak period are comparable to those during the peak season, although availability could be more constrained.
Camping Torres (Camping Las Torres)
Camping Torres (also known as Camping Las Torres) is located near the base of the iconic Torres del Paine, close to the trailhead for the Torres Base Trek, one of the most famous hikes in the park. Adventurers who want to get a close-up look at the breathtaking towers frequently choose this campsite since it provides convenient access to the route. It provides great views of the surrounding area, especially the striking Torres peaks, but is a little more rustic than some other campgrounds. Camping costs between CLP 14,000 and CLP 16,000 per person per night during the busiest time of year. Discounted prices are frequently offered during off-peak hours, giving tourists a more cost-effective choice.
Camping Hostería Pehoé
Situated on the charming shores of Lago Pehoé, Camping Hostería Pehoé provides a private campsite with a laid-back vibe and breathtaking views of the lake’s turquoise waters and the Paine Massif. A comfortable stay is guaranteed by the campsite’s excellent amenities, which include a restaurant. Dormitory beds cost between CLP 45,000 and 55,000 per person per night at the busiest time of year. Camping costs between CLP 20,000 and 22,000 per person per night. Discounts of 10–20% are frequently offered during the off-peak months, making it a more cost-effective choice for travelers.
In addition to camping fees, visitors to Torres del Paine National Park are required to pay an entrance fee. It’s about CLP 21,000 per person for foreigners and CLP 7,000 for Chilean nationals or residents. These costs cover park admission for a maximum of three days. Other services like meals, hot baths, and equipment rentals are also provided by certain campgrounds. For individuals who would rather not carry their own equipment, there are handy solutions available. Meals normally cost between CLP 5,000 and 8,000 every meal. The camping equipment rentals cost between CLP 10,000 and 20,000 per item per day.
These are some of the best campsites in Torres Del Paine. How many of these have you been to or planning to go to? Let us know in the comments below.
