The most iconic image that invites travelers to explore Torres del Paine National Park is the breathtaking view from the Base Torres Viewpoint. It offers a natural spectacle with towering granite columns piercing the Patagonian sky, set within an amphitheater shaped by nature.
This one-day expedition is typically done on foot from the Central sector or Hotel Las Torres; however, only at Las Torres Patagonia can you cover half the route on horseback, enjoying different views, conserving energy for the final ascent, and experiencing the excitement of local baqueanos as you explore the area.
So, hold your reins tight, put on your protective gear, and join us on the journey to conquer the Base Torres Viewpoint.
Many people can say that, at some point in their lives, they reached the Base Torres Viewpoint. Still, only a few can say they made the journey on horseback, experiencing firsthand what early explorers felt as they ventured into these lands to survey and discover the territory.
The excursion leads you along winding trails, past stunning views, and across rivers, so you can feel Patagonia unfolding around you with every step of your noble companion.
Las Torres Patagonia offers this exclusive experience—a tour that takes you on horseback to the Chileno sector before continuing on foot. It’s an extraordinary adventure that involves confronting heights and guiding the horse with determination.
The excursion is also recommended for those wishing to conserve energy before hiking across the moraine to reach the Base Torres Viewpoint. Travel times are similar to walking at a steady, gentle pace, so the ride does not involve overtaking other hikers. What it does offer is the opportunity to experience the journey in two ways.
Like most activities at Las Torres Patagonia, the excursion begins early in the morning. Our guide leads us to the stables, where we meet our horses and the baqueano who will accompany us.
The guide will help us fasten our helmets and gaiters and provide a brief overview of safety guidelines for the day. Remember your horse’s name—it will be your companion and contribute to one of the most memorable riding experiences of your life.
The route takes us past the side of Hotel Las Torres, crosses the Ascencio River, and then starts the ascent.
Your horse may feel slightly unsteady when crossing the river, but as a skilled rider, you must instill confidence in your noble companion for a safe crossing. These horses are accustomed to the terrain and usually need only a gentle nudge with your heels to stay with the group.
If your horse hesitates at any point, we recommend using the "kicks and kisses” command, which involves gentle heel pressure combined with kissing sounds to encourage it to continue.
The journey through the Ascencio Valley is calm and serene. Your horse, being at home with nature, may occasionally stop to graze on nearby grass. A gentle reminder will help it skip an early lunch and stay with the group.
One highlight of the journey is crossing Los Vientos Pass, a narrow trail overlooking the Ascencio River that challenges your stamina, focus, and trust in your horse.
During this section, avoid sudden movements and keep a firm hold on the reins. Make sure to zip up your jacket or windbreaker tightly, as the wind on this section of the trail may produce a flapping sound that can startle the horse.
After completing this stretch, we cross the river once more and continue to the Chileno sector, where we tie up the horses and begin the second part of the excursion.
Before setting off, you can use the restrooms, buy a snack at the cafeteria, or stretch your legs to relax after the ride and loosen your muscles for the hike to the Base Torres Viewpoint.
In the final stretch of the day, we enter the lenga beech forest along a winding trail that rises and falls gently. Unlike before, the treetops will shield us from the sun, creating a more intimate connection with the surrounding landscape.
You may spot small birds like thrushes and sparrows flying past you as they search for their daily food.
The final section before reaching the Base Torres Viewpoint is the moraine—a mostly steep, rocky trail fully exposed to the midday sun. Be sure to reapply sunscreen, wear sunglasses, and keep your hat on.
After completing this more challenging stretch, which may still hold patches of snow in October and November, you arrive at the natural amphitheater. A glacial lagoon lies at its center, framed by the elegantly rising granite towers in the background.
Take time to rest, explore the lagoon’s shore, take that well-deserved photo to commemorate your achievement, and enjoy the lunch you carefully saved for this moment.
You did it. You’ve successfully conquered the Base Torres Viewpoint.
The return follows the same route. You’ll descend the moraine carefully, watching for loose or slippery rocks. Using trekking poles is essential to help prevent accidents.
Before re-entering the lenga beech forest, you can stop at the National Forestry Corporation (CONAF) ranger station if you need to use the restroom before returning to the Chileno sector. You can also use the facilities there if needed.
Back at Chileno, our horses—patiently waiting—are ready to welcome you and take you back. Now, you can enjoy the stunning scenery unfolding at every turn as our noble companions lead us back.
We finish the journey at the stables, thank the baqueanos for their company, and give our horses a final pat of appreciation.
This experience allows you to enjoy two activities in a single day: riding through Patagonia and hiking steep slopes to reach the Base Torres Viewpoint. Are you ready for this adventure?
For more information on how to join this adventure or other similar experiences in the heart of Torres del Paine National Park, check out our excursions catalog, available to all Hotel Las Torres guests.