Yes, you can. It's a long day of about 16 hours, but it lets you see the park's most famous viewpoints without changing hotels. Here's what the day looks like, what you'll see and when another option makes more sense.
The short answer: yes, as a full-day trip
Torres del Paine is more than 350 km from Punta Arenas: 5 hours of driving each way. That's why the full-day tour leaves before dawn, between 5:00 and 5:30 a.m., and returns between 8:30 and 9:00 p.m.
In return, you cover the park's classic route in a single day with a guide and transport, which is very convenient if you're based in Punta Arenas or have only a few days in Patagonia.
The day, step by step
5:00 to 5:30 a.m.: departure from Punta Arenas heading north across the Patagonian steppe.
Puerto Natales and the Milodon Cave: the route goes through Puerto Natales and reaches the Milodon Cave Natural Monument.
Torres del Paine National Park: a tour of the park's main viewpoints.
8:30 to 9:00 p.m.: return to Punta Arenas.
The order of the stops and the time at each one may change depending on the weather and road conditions. Check prices and availability on the Torres del Paine Day Tour from Punta Arenas page.
What you'll see: the park's viewpoints
The route stops at Torres del Paine's best-known viewpoints, with views of the three granite towers, the Cuernos del Paine, the Paine Grande massif and deep turquoise lakes.
It's a scenic tour: it doesn't include the hike to the base of the Towers. If you want to reach that viewpoint, choose the Base Torres Trek from Punta Arenas, a demanding full-day hike.
Author: Caminos Tours
Landscapes that change in minutes
Patagonian weather changes fast: a single day can bring sun, wind, clouds and rain. Clear mountain views are never guaranteed, but that same variety makes for some of the best photos of the trip.
Author: Caminos Tours
Wildlife along the way
On the steppe and inside the park you'll often see guanacos, and with luck rheas, foxes and condors. Keep your phone or camera handy: they often appear right next to the road.
Author: Caminos Tours
Day trip or overnight in Puerto Natales?
A day trip from Punta Arenas makes sense if:
you have only a few days in Patagonia;
your hotel is already in Punta Arenas;
you'd rather see the park's highlights without moving your luggage.
Staying in Puerto Natales makes sense if you want to hike more or add other excursions in the area. From there, the Torres del Paine Day Tour from Puerto Natales cuts the driving time considerably.
What to bring and practical tips
Layers, a windproof and waterproof jacket, a hat and gloves, even in summer.
Sunglasses and sunscreen.
Water and snacks for the road.
Park entrance fee: not included in the tour price; it's paid separately. Ask for the current rate when you book.
Don't book a flight or bus for the same night: the return can be delayed by the weather.
The tour runs all year round. In winter the snowy landscapes are stunning, although the days are shorter.
If your trip also includes the king penguins, read why you shouldn't leave weather-dependent tours for your last day.
Author: Caminos Tours
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Torres del Paine day tour from Punta Arenas?
15 to 16 hours: it leaves between 5:00 and 5:30 a.m. and returns between 8:30 and 9:00 p.m.
Is the park entrance fee included?
No. The Torres del Paine National Park entrance fee is paid separately.
Does the day tour reach the base of the Towers?
No. The day tour is scenic. To reach the Base Torres viewpoint, there's the Base Torres Trek, a demanding full-day hike.
Can I do it in winter?
Yes, the tour runs all year round.
How do I book?
On the Torres del Paine Day Tour page or by messaging us on WhatsApp.
