Solo Expedition to Torres del Paine

Echoes of Giants and Serene Waters

Today, I embarked on a journey that felt like stepping back in time, interwoven with moments of serene reflection amidst the stunning landscapes of Torres del Paine. It was a day of contrasts, from exploring caves echoing with the stories of prehistoric creatures to gazing upon the tranquil beauty of azure waters. It’s days like these that remind me why I crave these solo adventures, a chance to connect with nature and myself.

The morning started with a hearty breakfast at Rio Pingo. Fuelling up was essential for the day ahead, especially knowing I'd be exploring the Mylodon Cave Natural Monument. The drive there was beautiful, the Patagonian landscape unfolding before me like a painting. As I approached the monument, the wind picked up, carrying with it a sense of anticipation.

The Mylodon Cave Natural Monument is more than just a cave; it's a portal to the past. Stepping inside, I was immediately struck by the sheer size of it. It’s incredible to think that this was once home to the Mylodon, a giant ground sloth. Walking through the cave, I imagined what life must have been like for these creatures and the early humans who shared this space. The informational signs scattered around the site really helped bring the history to life, with life-size cutouts of extinct animals adding a touch of whimsy.


Discover the ancient wonders and breathtaking landscapes at Mylodon Cave Natural Monument, a must-visit national park in southern Chile.

I explored the various trails around the cave, including the path to the Silla del Diablo, or Devil's Chair. The rock formation was imposing, and the views from there were simply breathtaking. It's amazing to think that archaeologists are still uncovering stories about the first humans and animals who lived here.

In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.

After immersing myself in history, I drove towards Laguna Azulada de Serrano. The landscape shifted, revealing a serene expanse of water reflecting the sky above. The wind was still strong, creating ripples on the surface of the lagoon, but there was a sense of peace that washed over me.


Explore the stunning Laguna Azulada de Serrano in Torres de Paine National Park, a breathtaking hiking area with extraordinary views and diverse wildlife.

I found a quiet spot by the shore and simply sat, absorbing the beauty around me. The distant mountains, the clear water, the vast sky – it was a moment of pure tranquility. I took out my travel journal and scribbled down some thoughts, reflecting on the journey so far and the experiences yet to come. It struck me how different this landscape is from the lush, green hills of my native New Zealand. Both are beautiful, but in vastly different ways.

For lunch, I stopped by El Ovejero, a local eatery known for its Patagonian cuisine. I decided to try the cordero al palo, spit-roast lamb, a regional specialty. It was absolutely delicious, the meat tender and flavorful, a perfect complement to the day's adventures.


Experience authentic Patagonian cuisine at El Ovejero, nestled in the heart of Torres del Paine National Park.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way to Restaurant Pehoe Barbecue for dinner. The thought of enjoying a meal while watching the sunset over the Paine Massif was too good to resist. The food was great, but the views were even better. The sky was ablaze with color, painting the mountains in hues of orange and pink. It was a moment I know I'll never forget.


Experience authentic Chilean barbecue surrounded by breathtaking landscapes at Restaurant Pehoe Barbecue in Torres del Paine National Park.

Before heading back for the night, I decided to check out El Puesto Restobar. I enjoyed a drink while chatting with some locals. It was a cozy and relaxed atmosphere, the perfect way to wind down after a day of exploring. It's always interesting to hear stories from people who call this place home.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at El Puesto Restobar in Puerto Natales, the perfect spot to unwind after your Patagonian adventures.

Thinking about tomorrow, I'm excited to explore Mirador Dorotea and Laguna Toro Lookout. I'm hoping for clear skies so I can fully appreciate the panoramic views. I'm also planning to visit Patagoniawool | Premium 100% Natural Wool, to pick up a souvenir for Liam and perhaps a cozy scarf for myself. I know he’d appreciate a little something from my travels, especially since he's holding down the fort back in Kelowna. He’s probably working on some complex software code right now, completely immersed in his world. I miss him, but I also know he supports my need for these solo adventures. It’s part of what makes us work so well – we both understand the importance of pursuing our passions.

As I settle in for the night, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. Torres del Paine has exceeded all my expectations, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.