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Mirador Base Las Torres: The Crown Jewel of Torres del Paine

Hike to the base of the iconic granite towers in Torres del Paine National Park for a breathtaking Patagonian panorama. A challenging, must-do experience.

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The Mirador Base Las Torres is the most iconic viewpoint in Torres del Paine National Park, offering a breathtaking panorama of the three granite towers that give the park its name. The challenging but rewarding day hike to the base of the towers is a must-do for visitors seeking the ultimate Patagonian experience.

A brief summary to Mirador Base Las Torres

  • Torres de Paine, Magallanes and Chilean Antarctica, CL
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Local tips

  • Start the hike early to avoid crowds and ensure you have ample time to reach the mirador before closure times.
  • Check weather conditions before you go, as the weather in Patagonia can change rapidly. Dress in layers and be prepared for wind, rain, and sun.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited opportunities to purchase them along the trail.
  • Wear sturdy hiking boots and consider using trekking poles for added stability on the rocky terrain.
  • Book your park entrance and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season, as they can sell out.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The hike to Mirador Base Las Torres begins near Hotel Las Torres. From the Torres del Paine Welcome Center, follow the well-marked trail. The trail is approximately 21 km (13 miles) round trip and typically takes 8-10 hours. The first section is a gradual uphill, followed by a steeper ascent through the Ascencio Valley. The final kilometer is a challenging scramble over rocks and boulders to reach the mirador. Be sure to check the CONAF website for current trail closure times. There is a refugio (Chileno) along the way where you can rest and refill water.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Mirador Base Las Torres trailhead via public transport, take a bus from Puerto Natales to Laguna Amarga, one of the main entrances to Torres del Paine National Park. From Laguna Amarga, transfer to a shuttle bus that will take you to the Torres del Paine Welcome Center, near the Hotel Las Torres, where the trail begins. Bus fare from Puerto Natales to Laguna Amarga: CLP 21,000 (round trip). Shuttle fare from Laguna Amarga to Welcome Center: CLP 4,500 each way (USD $5).

  • Driving

    If driving, take Route 9 from Puerto Natales towards Torres del Paine National Park. Enter the park through Laguna Amarga, Lago Sarmiento, or Rio Serrano. Continue to the Torres del Paine Welcome Center, where you can park your car for free. From the Welcome Center, the trail to Mirador Las Torres begins. Park entrance fee (foreigners): CLP $31,200 (3-day pass) or CLP $44,500 (more than 3 days). Note: There are no ATMs within the park, so bring sufficient Chilean pesos for entrance fees and other expenses.

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Discover more about Mirador Base Las Torres

The Mirador Base Las Torres, also known as Base Torres, is the ultimate destination for hikers in Torres del Paine National Park. This stunning viewpoint provides an up-close and personal encounter with the park's namesake: three colossal granite towers, the Torre d'Agostini, Torre Central, and Torre Monzino, rising over 8,200 feet above sea level. Nestled at the base of these giants is a dazzling turquoise lake, Lago Torres, completing a scene of unparalleled beauty. The hike to Mirador Base Las Torres is a demanding 12.5 to 13.5-mile (20-21 km) out-and-back trek, typically taking 8-10 hours to complete. The trail starts near Hotel Las Torres, passing through the Ascencio Valley and following the Ascencio River. While the initial section is relatively easy, the final ascent involves a steep climb over rocks and boulders, requiring both stamina and caution. Despite the challenge, the reward is well worth the effort. Reaching the mirador, hikers are greeted with a vista that embodies the raw, untamed beauty of Patagonia. The sheer scale of the towers, the vibrant color of the glacial lake, and the surrounding mountain scenery create an unforgettable experience. Torres del Paine National Park, including the Mirador Base Las Torres, has been a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve since 1978. The park's history dates back millions of years, with the Paine Massif itself formed around 12 million years ago. In more recent history, the area was initially named Grey Lake National Tourism Park in 1959 before being renamed Torres del Paine National Park in 1970.

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