Highlights of the Las Torres Trek

One of the best things about the Las Torres Trek is the variety of scenery. The trail takes you through several different landscapes, each with its own character.

1. The Approach

The walk starts at the Las Torres Base car park, with a steady climb through open valleys and gently rolling hills. After about an hour, the path becomes narrower and there’s a steep drop on one side. Take your time and watch your step here.

2. Forest and Moraine
Further along, you enter Lenga forest, where the trees offer a bit of shade and shelter. This part of the walk feels calm and quiet. Once you leave the forest, the trail becomes rockier and steeper as you climb across the moraine. The views start to open up the higher you go.

3. Wildlife

Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way. You might see guanacos (which are similar to llamas), nandus (a type of flightless bird), and Magellanic woodpeckers. If you’re lucky, you could even spot an Andean condor soaring overhead. 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Guanaco                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            

 4. The Final Climb
The last section is the toughest. It’s a steep scramble over loose rock and gravel, so it can feel like a bit of a slog. But when you turn the final corner and catch your first glimpse of the towers, it’s all worth it.

5. The View at the Base

If the skies are clear, you’ll be rewarded with one of Patagonia’s most breathtaking views. The three granite spires rise above a glacial lake, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. It’s the perfect spot to sit down, have some lunch, and take it all in.

Preparing for the Las Torres Trek

Note: This is a day hike, but it’s still fairly demanding, so a bit of preparation goes a long way. 

1. Fitness

You don’t need to be a professional athlete, but a decent level of fitness will help. Some uphill sections are quite sustained. Doing some walking or training in the weeks before your trip, especially with hills or stairs, will make the day more enjoyable.

2. What to Bring

• Footwear: Proper hiking boots with ankle support are essential, especially for the rocky final climb.
• Clothing: Dress in layers. You’ll want a thermal or base layer, something warm like a fleece or light jacket, and a waterproof and windproof outer layer. The weather can change quickly, so even in summer, bring a hat and gloves.
• Poles: Walking poles can be really useful, especially on the way down. These can often be borrowed from your accommodation (such as Hotel Rio Serrano).
• Food and water: Bring about two litres of water and plenty of snacks to keep your energy up. High-energy foods like trail mix or cereal bars are ideal. If you’re staying at Hotel Rio Serrano, you can pick up a packed lunch before the trek. I chose the teriyaki chicken baguette, which was very welcome once we reached the top. There’s a small refuge about an hour into the trail where you can buy drinks and snacks. Higher up, you’ll find natural springs where you can top up your water bottles.

3. Timing

The full walk usually takes between 8 and 10 hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the top. You’ll likely have an early start, with pick-up around 6.30am and the walk starting by 8am. You’ll stop for regular short breaks and usually spend about 45 minutes enjoying the view at the top before starting the descent.

4. Weather

Patagonian weather is famously unpredictable. On our trek, we had snow, wind, sunshine. and clear skies all in one day. Be prepared for everything. A decent windbreaker is a good idea, and it’s worth packing spare layers just in case.

Other Useful Tips

• When to Go: The best time to do the Las Torres Trek is between November and April, which is the summer season in the Southern Hemisphere. Days are longer, and the weather tends to be more settled.
• Safety: Always stay on the marked paths, especially if conditions are poor. If you're not confident hiking alone, it’s a good idea to stay with a guide. On the way back down, you’ll be more tired, so take extra care with your footing.

A Trek to Remember

                                                                                                                      Otto, Senior Travel Specialist

The Las Torres Trek is more than just a walk. It’s a full-on experience in one of the most beautiful parts of Patagonia. The landscape changes constantly, the challenge is real, and the reward at the top is something you’ll never forget.

If you enjoy being out in nature and don’t mind a bit of effort, this is a trek that will stay with you for a long time. Just lace up your boots, pack your layers, and enjoy every step of the journey.

Inspired by this and want to experience the best of  Chile for yourself? Order a free brochure to find out more about our Chile itineraries, or contact us to speak to one of our Chile Travel Consultants today.

Found this blog useful? Sign up to our newsletter for more holiday tips and advice!