The Interpretive Trail is one of the most inclusive experiences Las Torres Patagonia offers. The trails have very gentle slopes and ample space to rest, and the walk takes about an hour. The Interpretive Trail immerses you in a significant sampling of Torres del Paine National Park’s nature, including rock formations, plants, trees, fungi and fauna. This post tells you about some animals you may encounter along this route and shares some curious facts that will enrich your experience.
Parakeets may be associated with more tropical areas, but you will be surprised by these colorful birds here in Patagonia as their squawking will not go unnoticed on the Interpretive Trail.
Their peculiar name comes from the word local communities used to describe the clamor of their characteristic cry or call. They make their presence known from a distance. When you approach a flock of them resting in the trees, the reason behind their name becomes very apparent.
Their bright green plumage helps these parakeets blend in with the foliage. Still, their bright red tails often reveal their whereabouts among the tree branches.
Despite being very noisy, these parakeets have the endearing quality of forming powerful intra-flock bonds and often display affectionate behaviors, like grooming each other.
Here at Las Torres Patagonia, we have a special affection for Geoffroy’s cat. A few years ago, there was no trace of this curious feline, slightly larger than a domestic cat, which was thought to have disappeared from this park sector. However, thanks to conservation efforts by our NGO, Las Torres Patagonia Conservancy, new individuals have been identified in the last few years.
The species is named after the French naturalist Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire, who was the first to describe it in the 19th century—a remarkable achievement given its elusiveness.
The Geoffroy’s cat is usually most active at dawn and dusk. An excellent climber, it feeds mainly on rodents and birds.
Along the Interpretive Trail, you will need to pay close attention. One of this cat’s great skills is moving in absolute silence, making it a formidable hunter.
The thrush can be found throughout the Chilean territory, so some people will find it curious to also see them in the country’s major capital cities.
At first, you may recognize its melodious song, which is unique and easy to distinguish.
It is not difficult to spot this diurnal bird foraging for insects, fruit and small invertebrates. You will recognize them by their grayish-black plumage and bright yellow beak.
These birds approach people without fear, giving them a friendly, charming touch and making it easy to photograph them. Just remember to keep your distance and ensure your approach does not scare them away from their nesting place.
Of all the birds that abound in Torres del Paine National Park, this one sparks the longest conversations. The central theme: Where does the name cometocino come from?
One of the theories, where there is the most consensus among experts, is that the name originates from the fact that these tiny birds used to peck at the meat left to sun dry on the estates. While this is a plausible explanation, they are usually seen feeding on berries, fruits, buds, flowers, nectar and sap. In the spring and summer, they also eat arthropods.
The species presents sexual dimorphism. Females usually have bright yellow tones contrasting with gray plumage, while males have brownish tones.
This bird’s melodious song, heard from a great distance, has become popular among birders. Its colorful plumage also attracts many bird watchers.
One of Patagonia lovers’ favorite animals is the puma. People from all over the world travel to Torres del Paine National Park to get a photo of the majestic feline roaming through different park sectors, including the Interpretive Trail.
Its name comes from a Quechua word meaning “strong animal.” As an umbrella species, basically the main predator, its health status is an indicator for ecosystem balance.
During the day, pumas tend to be solitary and crepuscular, hunting primarily at dawn or dusk.
They are excellent hunters, and their individual diets vary. Some faster, more agile pumas prefer to eat hares or other small animals. In contrast, some larger individuals prefer to hunt guanacos.
If you are fortunate enough to see one, something that may catch your attention is that, despite their impressive size, their vocalization is not as powerful as other felines. They do not roar but rather growl, squeak and meow.
Remember that our Interpretive Trail is only a few meters from Hotel Las Torres, so you can hike this comfortable trail any time during the day and reconnect with Patagonian nature.