*"Torres del Paine was shockingly beautiful. I left the trip with a strong desire to return one day and explore more of this beautiful country."*
In December 2023, a group of friends traveled with us for an unforgettable journey through Chile — from Torres del Paine and Puerto Natales in Patagonia to Puerto Varas in the north, finishing in Santiago and the vineyards of Santa Rita. We asked Elan how it went.
Hiking the Torres del Paine W Trek, drinking mate while watching a condor fly overhead on the two-day hike, and ending the trip at a vineyard outside Santiago.
I originally signed up because my classmate Joe is Chilean — I figured there was no better time to visit. I came with no expectations, just open to the adventure. The park was shockingly beautiful: the variety of landscapes was incredible and the final view felt like another planet. Puerto Natales also stood out — a charming town with great places to relax and eat.
Chile is rich in history and natural beauty, blending indigenous culture with European influence in its food, language and people. It's the only Latin American country I've visited where you can drink the tap water. I left wanting to come back and see even more.
Very positive and open. I met new people who became friends and deepened connections with those I already knew. Everyone had a can-do attitude.
The Torres del Paine day hike runs about eight hours through changing weather, so dress in layers and train a little beforehand if you're unsure of your fitness. Try a Calafate Sour — a delicious drink unique to the region. And ask your guides plenty of questions; they know an enormous amount about Chile's history and geography.
Everyone was friendly, responsive and flexible, and they adapted the plans to the group's interests. I'd absolutely travel with Dip Your Trip again — I'm already eyeing the Patagonian Chile Trek for a future adventure.
*Come travel with us: Explore the Patagonian Chile Trek.*
The classic day hike to the base of the towers takes about eight hours round trip through changeable weather, so layers and a basic level of fitness are recommended.
It's a regional Patagonian twist on the Chilean pisco sour, made with calafate berries — a local specialty worth trying while you're in the south.
Yes, tap water is generally safe to drink in Chile, which is relatively unusual in South America and makes travel there easier.