Why start Torres del Paine from Puerto Natales?

Puerto Natales is ~80 km from the park’s southern gates, so you spend more time in Torres del Paine and less time driving than from El Calafate.

Puerto Natales waterfront with mountains behind

From Puerto Natales

Patagonia Day Trips from Puerto Natales

The Chilean town closest to Torres del Paine — the smart base if the park is your priority.

Last updated: 2026-09-20

Quick facts

Puerto Natales is ~80 km / 1.5–2h from Torres del Paine’s southern gates (Laguna Amarga, Grey). Staying here means less driving and more time in the park versus a cross-border run from El Calafate.

Top day trips

Torres del Paine Full Day

12h · Chile only

Scenic circuit to Grey Lake, the Paine Massif and Salto Grande — no border crossing.

Closest gateway→

Base of the Towers Hike

15h · guided

The classic trek to the viewpoint beneath the three granite towers.

Bucket-list hike→

Puerto Natales vs El Calafate

Both reach Torres del Paine. Puerto Natales keeps you in Chile (no border line) and is closer; El Calafate adds Perito Moreno and El Chaltén but makes TdP a 16h cross-border day. Full comparison →

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FAQ

Is Puerto Natales better than El Calafate for Torres del Paine?

If Torres del Paine is your only goal, Puerto Natales wins on drive time and avoids the Argentina–Chile border. If you also want Perito Moreno and El Chaltén, El Calafate is the better all-round hub.

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