The content you're trying to view is for members eyes only. Please log in or apply for membership to view more. Questions? Check out our FAQ page.
Already a member? Log In
Photo by Colby Oney
Located in Chile's southern Patagonia region, Puerto Natales is a port city that houses many trekkers before and after their adventures in Torres del Paine National Park. Here are some quick tips so you can explore the city (and recover from jet lag).
I suggest staying one full day before and after your trek in Puerto Natales. The town is small but it is the perfect spot to prepare and rejuvenate. Additional days are not needed. I would recommend staying at Hostel Last Hope or Erratic Rock Hostel! Both are great options filled with other trekkers.
Tips:
Be sure to attend the free Erratic Rock Hostel information session on backpacking in Torres del Paine. It happens daily at 3pm.​
Tips:
Hiking and camping stores cover the town but prices are higher than normal. Rent or buy any equipment you forgot or need. If you didn't bring hiking poles, get some! Trust me you'll want them. Convenient rentals can be done at the Erratic Rock Hostel (where you attend the info session).
Tips:
Although often overpriced, camping food can be purchased throughout the town. Buy dried fruits and nuts at the local mom and pop store Itahue Dried Fruit and Nuts.
Ask your hostel to help you check current bus and ferry times to Torres del Paine. Align your bus and ferry times accordingly.
Purchase a roundtrip bus ticket from Puerto Natales to Torres del Paine for $15.000 CLP, approximately $23 USD. This can be easily done the day before departure at the Puerto Natales bus station or at participating hostels throughout town. Two companies provide transportation into the park; we were advised to take Bus Gomez over Bus Sur.
Buy authentic souvenirs at Pueblo Artesanal Etherh Aike, a small craft market with local items.
Visit Muelle Historico, a historical rundown pier that features a beautiful mountainous backdrop and stroll by the Monumento al Viento artwork.
Save money by eating at your hostel; most accommodations include breakfast.
Go to the Creperia Café y Té for yummy sandwiches and crepes.
Itahue Dried Fruit and Nuts
Check out La Picada De Carlitos for traditional and affordable Chilean food or Café Artimaña for tasty local dishes and fresh seafood.
Helados La Dorotea was a great spot for delicious ice cream and pastries.
Chile has some extraordinary hikes and treks, and Puerto Natales is the perfect gateway to the park. Be sure to check out the O Circuit or W Circuit!
I’m a frugal foodie, amateur photographer and avid explorer who loves researching and planning my next big adventure. When I’m not working and saving for my next trip, I’m daydreaming about where I want to travel next. Message me for any Santa Monica, Prague, Idaho or Patagonia Recs! 🙌
View All Posts
Join Our Community to See More
The content you're trying to view is for members eyes only. Please log in or apply for membership to view more. Questions? Check out our FAQ page .