The journey
The O-Circuit is the ultimate Torres del Paine experience: the full circumnavigation of the Paine Massif through some of the most spectacular scenery on Earth. While most visitors only tackle the popular W-Trek (the southern section), the O adds the wild, remote backside of the range where you'll often have the trail to yourself.
Over 9 days, you'll cross John Gardner Pass (1,241m) with its staggering view of the Grey Glacier and the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, trek through ancient lenga forests, camp beside turquoise glacial lakes, and stand at the base of the iconic granite towers that give the park its name.
Patagonian weather is famously unpredictable. You can experience all four seasons in a single day. But that's part of the magic. The light, the wind, and the constantly shifting skies make every moment on the trail feel cinematic. Refugio (mountain lodge) bookings are required and limited, so we recommend booking 3-4 months ahead for peak season.
Trek Photos
The Towers at Sunrise
Grey Glacier
Lago NordenskjoldThe trail
Route overview: Full O-Circuit around the Paine Massif via John Gardner Pass
The day to day
Puerto Natales to Seron
+Morning transfer from Puerto Natales to Laguna Amarga park entrance. Trek through open Patagonian steppe with views of the Paine Massif ahead. Rolling terrain through grasslands and guanaco territory. Arrive at Refugio Seron, the quietest refugio on the circuit. ~13km, 4-5 hours.
Seron to Dickson
+Trek along the northern edge of the massif through lenga forest. Cross the Río Paine on a suspension bridge and continue to Refugio Dickson, set on the shore of Lago Dickson with views of the Dickson Glacier calving into the lake. ~19km, 6-7 hours.
Dickson to Los Perros
+The trail enters deep forest and follows the Río de los Perros valley upward. Increasingly remote and wild terrain. Camp at Los Perros, the most rugged campsite on the circuit, set in a glacial valley beneath hanging ice. ~10km, 5-6 hours.
Los Perros to Grey via John Gardner Pass (1,241m)
+The hardest and most rewarding day. Early start for the steep climb to John Gardner Pass. At the top: a jaw-dropping panorama of the Grey Glacier and the vast Southern Patagonian Ice Field stretching to the horizon. Long, steep descent through forest and boardwalks to Refugio Grey. ~16km, 8-10 hours.
Grey to Paine Grande
+Trek along the shore of Lago Grey with views of icebergs floating in the lake. Follow the trail through beech forest and open terrain to Refugio Paine Grande on the shore of Lago Pehoé. A more relaxed day. ~11km, 4-5 hours.
Paine Grande to Frances Valley
+Enter the W section of the circuit. Trek into the stunning Frances Valley, a natural amphitheatre of granite walls. Hanging glaciers crack and calve above you. Incredible views of Cuernos del Paine (the "Horns"). Return to camp near Lago Nordenskjold. ~15km, 6-7 hours.
Frances to Los Cuernos
+A gentler day along the shore of Lago Nordenskjold with the Cuernos del Paine towering above. The bicoloured rock faces (dark sedimentary caps on white granite) are some of the most photographed formations in Patagonia. Camp at Refugio Los Cuernos. ~12km, 4-5 hours.
Los Cuernos to Torres Lookout
+Early start for the final highlight. Trek to the Torres Lookout at the base of the three iconic granite towers. The last hour is a steep scramble over boulders to a glacial lake reflecting the 2,500m towers above. One of the great mountain viewpoints on Earth. Camp at Refugio Chileno or Central. ~18km, 8-9 hours.
Return to Puerto Natales
+Descend to Laguna Amarga and transfer back to Puerto Natales. Celebrate with a well-earned Patagonian lamb dinner and craft beer in town. Optional extension to explore the town or visit the Milodon Cave before your onward journey.
What you get
Included
- Transfer from Puerto Natales to park and return
- Torres del Paine National Park entry fee
- All refugio and campsite bookings (8 nights)
- Three meals per day on trek
- Experienced English-speaking guide
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats)
- All internal park transfers (catamaran, bus)
- Emergency satellite communication
Not Included
- International flights to Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales
- Travel insurance (required)
- Sleeping bag (can be rented at refugios)
- Walking poles (can be rented)
- Personal trekking gear
- Alcoholic drinks and snacks
- Tips for guide
- Accommodation in Puerto Natales (pre/post trek)