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Lake Pehoé: A Patagonian Jewel

Discover Lake Pehoé in Torres del Paine: Turquoise waters, majestic mountains, and unforgettable Patagonian vistas.

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Lake Pehoé, nestled in the heart of Torres del Paine National Park, is renowned for its vibrant turquoise waters and stunning views of the Paine mountain range. A haven for photographers and nature lovers, it offers hiking, wildlife spotting, and serene landscapes.

A brief summary to Lake Pehoé

  • Torres de Paine, Magallanes and Chilean Antarctica, CL

Local tips

  • Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most stunning views and vibrant colors reflecting on the lake.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions in Patagonia can change rapidly.
  • Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery; the area is a photographer's paradise.
  • Consider staying overnight at nearby lodges or camping sites to fully immerse yourself in the park's beauty.
  • Bring Chilean pesos for basic needs, as not all establishments accept credit or debit cards.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Lake Pehoé via public transport, take a bus from Puerto Natales to Torres del Paine National Park. Several companies offer this service, with a journey time of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Buses typically depart in the morning; check the schedule in advance. The cost ranges from 10,000 to 15,000 CLP. Upon arrival at the park entrance, take a park shuttle to Lake Pehoé for around 5,000 CLP. Alternatively, hike approximately 2 hours along marked trails from the park entrance.

  • Car

    If driving from Puerto Natales, take Route 9 (Ruta del Fin del Mundo) east for about 50 kilometers to reach the Torres del Paine National Park entrance. Pay the entrance fee, approximately 21,000 CLP for foreign adults. Continue on the main road, following signs for Lake Pehoé for about 30 kilometers. The drive takes 2-3 hours, depending on road conditions and photo stops. Parking is available near the lake.

  • Catamaran

    For those already within Torres del Paine National Park, the Patagonian Ice Catamaran provides access to Lake Pehoé from Paine Grande. The 30-minute cruise offers views of Almirante Nieto, Los Cuernos, and Paine Grande mountains. A one-way ticket costs approximately $22 USD, and a round-trip is around $36 USD. This ferry is essential for hikers on the W and Paine Massif circuits.

Unlock the Best of Lake Pehoé

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Discover more about Lake Pehoé

Lake Pehoé, pronounced "pay-oh-way," lies in the heart of Chile's Torres del Paine National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The lake's brilliant turquoise hue, a result of glacial meltwater, captivates visitors. The name Pehoé comes from the Tehuelche indigenous people, who called it "hidden lake" because it was hard to find amongst so many other bodies of water. Formed during the last glacial period approximately 12,000 years ago, Lake Pehoé sits at an elevation of about 112 feet (34 meters) and covers roughly 8.5 square miles (22 square kilometers). Paine River feeds the lake, carrying water from the Salto Grande waterfall and Skottsberg Lake. From the lake's shores, the views of the Cordillera Paine, including the iconic Cuernos del Paine and Paine Grande, are unparalleled. The lake serves as a vital transportation hub within the park. A catamaran connects Pudeto with Paine Grande, providing access to popular hiking routes like the W and Paine Massif circuits. Visitors can explore several trails around Lake Pehoé, including the popular Mirador Cóndor trail, offering panoramic views. Wildlife, including guanacos and condors, are often spotted in the area.

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