Torres del Paine National Park is a windswept wilderness of breathtaking beauty – a land of jagged granite peaks, verdant forests, flowery meadows, azure lakes, sinuous rivers and glaciers.
Patagonia Camp is on the shores of Lago Toro, just outside the Torres del Paine National Park but still in wilderness scenery. Each of its 17 yurt tents has marvellous views over the lake and the spires of the dominant, spell-binding, granite massif (known as Los Cuernos). The accommodation in the cosy tents have the facilities of a good hotel: all have heating, private bathroom, terrace, and ceiling window for stargazing.
The 17 luxury yurts are sheltered from the wind by forests of southern beech. The camp was conceived to blend sympathetically with the ancient environment, The entire complex is built on wooden stilts and platforms, including the yurts, communal areas, and elevated walkways. Decoration and furniture also feature locally made artefacts and textiles. There is just one building, which serves as a restaurant, bar and lounge. The camp also has a massage room steps away from the main building.
The walkways might not be appropriate for young children or the infirm.
We suggest a 5 day visit to the area based at Patagonia Camp, departing from Punta Arenas (airport) to the south of the park.
Holiday Itinerary
Day 1: It’s a 5 hour drive to the camp direct, but you will stop on the way at Estancia El Palenque for a lamb barbecue and learn about local traditions and the activities of a typical Patagonian ranch.
Day 2: In the morning, there is a trek to Salto del Toro, a beautiful waterfall surrounded by unspoiled Patagonian scenery. During the afternoon, there is a second hike, this time to Laguna Bonita, where its dark, calm waters reflect the surrounding mountains and forest.
Day 3: Drive to the impressive viewpoint of Mirador del Toro. Continue deeper into the park to Lago Grey. Relax on its beach overlooking the iceberg that calve from the glacier of the same name. Later, continue to Salto Grande near Lago Pehoe, where there are spectacular views of the peaks of Torres del Paine. Finally, there is a short trek in the area around Mirador de Nordenskjold.
Day 4: There are options today. The first is to participate in the spectacular trek to the base of Towers - the Torres del Paine. The trek requires a reasonable level of fitness. Alternatively continue to Laguna Azul. From this vantage point you can enjoy direct views of the Towers.
Day 5: Return to Punta Arenas.
Our Comment
The attention to detail is fabulous and the yurts themselves are extremely warm and comfortable. The food is delicious and the staff are all friendly and attentive.
Verity Allen, Consultant, Tailor-made Holidays
| |  Patagonia Camp
 Luxurious interior, Patagonia Camp...
 ...just a tent on the outside!
View more images    |