Patagonia is the ultimate destination for hiking enthusiasts. The breathtaking nature and landscapes feel like a fairytale world, from imposing glaciers to majestic mountains. This southern part of the Andes reveals some of the most beautiful natural scenes in the world. Whether you are an avid hiker or prefer shorter treks, Patagonia has something for everyone. The most enchanting places are even accessible via day trips. However, to truly experience nature in all its glory, we recommend embarking on multi-day hiking routes. Therefore, we have specially compiled our top 5 of the most beautiful multi-day trails in Patagonia for you.
1. Parque Nacional Torres del Paine - O-Trek - 8 days - Chile
Choosing the number one multi-day hike was a challenge, but the O-Trek in Torres del Paine rightfully tops our list. While the popular W-Trek takes you through the busier, touristy parts of the park, the O-Trek offers a more secluded experience. This route includes the entire W-Trek, plus an additional three days along the northern paths of the park. The O-Trek is less crowded due to the limited number of camping spots, providing a more tranquil experience.
The eight-day, 118 km trek is intense, especially if you carry your own food, drinking water, and camping gear, as we did. The snowstorm we experienced while crossing the John Gardner Pass was one of the most challenging experiences we've ever had. However, the breathtaking view of the Grey Glacier from the pass makes it all worthwhile. It's essential to reserve your camping spots months in advance, given the limited availability.
Our comprehensive blog about the O-Trek in Torres del Paine is now online! In it, we delve deeper into the entire park and circuit, the campsites, our personal experiences, and essential preparations you need to make for this unforgettable journey! Click here for the blog.
2. Parque Nacional Los Glaciares - Huemul circuit - 4 days - Argentina
At number 2 in our top 5 is undoubtedly the Huemul Circuit in El Chaltén. This four-day trail includes all the elements that Torres del Paine offers, but in a more compact form. What's unique about this route is the part where you walk over a glacier and have to cross a ravine and a fast-flowing river using a climbing harness. The Huemul Circuit is undoubtedly our most varied hike in Patagonia. The trail is relatively unknown and therefore requires thorough preparation; it's not even mentioned at the ranger information points. You really have to ask specifically to get more information from the park rangers.
The beauty of this journey is overwhelming: breathtaking views of the Patagonian ice fields, walking on the glacier, condors flying overhead, and the impressive sight of Lake Viedma with floating icebergs during one of the steepest descents we have ever undertaken.
We were not extremely experienced hikers or climbers when we embarked on this journey, but with the right preparation, the Huemul trek is definitely manageable. In our comprehensive blog about the Huemul trek, we share all the essential information to optimally prepare you for this unforgettable experience. Click here for our detailed blog about the Huemul trek.
3. Parque Nacional Cerro Castillo - Cerro Castillo Circuit - 3 to 5+ days - Chile
The Cerro Castillo Circuit, located along the famous Carretera Austral, is our favorite among the multi-day hikes on this renowned route. This circuit offers the flexibility to hike as many days as you wish, thanks to the various entry and exit points. You can even follow the Horquetas trail and extend the trip to more than five days. Note that this part is only accessible during the summer months; unfortunately, we were too early in the season. Nonetheless, this route is breathtaking, especially in the spring when it's quieter and many camping spots are available. Highlights such as Laguna Duff and the view of Laguna Cerro Castillo with the impressive rock formations of Cerro Castillo are unforgettable.
We will soon publish a comprehensive blog about the Cerro Castillo Circuit. We will delve into the different days, camping sites, experiences, and preparations to optimally prepare you for this unique multi-day hike.
4. Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi - 4 huts trail in Bariloche - 3 to 5 days - Argentina
The region around Bariloche is a true paradise for hikers, where you can spend days getting lost in the numerous impressive treks the area has to offer. One of the highlights is the hikes to the different refugios (mountain huts), where you can spend the night before walking back the same route. However, what we discovered is even more special: the climbing association of Bariloche has created a trail that connects these four refugios. This route takes you from Refugio Frey to Refugio Lopez and is certainly not an everyday hike. It might even be that you are one of the few adventurers who dare to take on this route, as it is still relatively unknown.
Be prepared for rapidly changing weather in the mountains, which can mean that you might not always be able to complete the trek. This happened to us; after the second refugio, we had to return to Bariloche via the trail that leads back to the start from this refugio. Despite these challenges, the trail offers fantastic views over the mountain ridges and remote valleys. If the weather had permitted and we had been able to complete the trek, it might even have taken the number 2 spot on our list.
We will soon publish a complete blog about this area and Bariloche. Keep an eye on our website for more information about these unique trails. And of course, we will also share where you can find the tastiest cheese fondue in Bariloche!
5. Parque Nacional Alarces - Lago Krügger trail - 3 to 4 days - Argentina
Our final recommendation in our top 5 best multi-day hikes in Patagonia is the trek to Lago Krügger in Los Alerces National Park. This relatively unknown park offers a range of both short and long day hikes, but the highlight is this multi-day hike. The route takes you over the ridges around Lago Futalaufquen and follows a there-and-back path of 34 km to the beautiful Lago Krügger. Registration with the park rangers in Villa Futalaufquen is mandatory; they want to know who is on the trails, especially since severe storms can occur and the trail is sometimes closed. Despite these challenges, it is a unique journey, rich in forest landscapes. You camp on the shores of the lake, where you are treated to beautiful sunsets in the evening.
Our preparation was suboptimal due to the limited information about this trail. We had expected to complete the 34 km there and back in two days. While we technically succeeded, it was not ideal. Due to this rapid pace, we had little time to enjoy the beautiful camping spots. Also, the steep climbs of the trail are almost unachievable within such a short timeframe.
Do you have questions about one of these trails or want more information about multi-day hikes in Patagonia? Then send us a message in the chat!
Comments