Esta entrada también está disponible en:
Español 
Français 
Deutsch 
Italiano 
Português
We start the O Circuit Day 8: last stage of the O Circuit O CircuitToday we climb up to the Base Torres viewpoint, the most famous trekking of Torres del Paine. In our case, we start our route from the Central SectorAfter this day, we will head back to Puerto Natales.
Stage Details
- 📏 Distance: 22 km (13.7 miles)
- 🕐 Time in motion: 6h 12 min
- ⌛ Total time: 9h 4 min
- ⛰️ Accumulated positive difference in altitude: 1072 m (3,517 ft)
- ⬇️ Accumulated negative elevation gain: 1072 m (3,517 ft)
- ⚠️ Difficulty: medium – high
- 🗺️ See the route on Wikiloc
O Circuit Day 8: Let’s Go!
We start the day with breakfast during the first shift in the dining area to make sure we’re well-fed and ready to go. Some of our fellow hikers decided to start early to catch the sunrise at the viewpoint, but we opted for a little extra rest (though not too much). Starting later means sharing the trail with more people since this section is part of the popular Base Torres day tour from Puerto Natales.
First Section: Ascent to Paso de Los Vientos
The day kicks off with some energy! We climb about 450 meters (1,480 ft) in just 4 km (2.5 miles) to reach the famous Paso de Los Vientos, an exposed area where, as the name suggests, the wind is relentless.
Intermediate Section: Chileno Sector and the Lenga Forest
After passing the pass, the trail softens a bit, and we reach Chileno Sector, where some hikers opt to spend the night to break the stage into two parts or to reach the viewpoint earlier. We decide to keep going.
Now we enter a lenga forest, which is a much-needed relief as the sun begins to heat up. We hike another 5 km (3.1 miles), constantly gaining elevation but staying in the shade. The trail leads us to a CONAF station, where many hikers take a break before the most demanding section of the hike.
The Final Stretch: The Big Ascent
Ahead of us lies the final, most challenging part of Day 8 of the O Circuit: an ascent of more than 500 meters (1,640 ft) in just 1.5 km (0.9 miles). There isn’t really a defined trail here, but rather a jumble of rocks that we climb almost like an irregular staircase. Slowly but surely, we gain height until… we finally reach the Mirador Base Torres!
The three granite towers, the lake at their feet, and the clear blue sky give us the best possible farewell. We enjoy a leisurely lunch with the view, take many photos, and reward ourselves with a good rest before starting the descent.
Back to Central Sector and Return to Puerto Natales
On our way back, we stop for a refreshing drink at the Chileno Sector bar (we’ve definitely earned that reward) and continue our descent toward Central Sector under the strong summer sun, which is a reminder that, even though we’re in Patagonia, it’s high summer. Suddenly, we spot a Christmas surprise: a hiker dressed as Santa Claus!
Upon arrival, we pick up our big backpacks (yes, we did this stage with only the small one, and what a relief!) and walk to the Welcome Center, where we take the transport back to Puerto Natales.
Mission accomplished!
After 8 days of adventure, breathtaking landscapes, effort, laughter, and unforgettable moments… we can say it loud and clear: We’ve completed the O Circuit in Torres del Paine!
Are you ready to take on this experience too? 🌎
Feel free to leave your questions or share your experience in the comments below 👇
