Hi fellow hiker,

Due to the proximity of the Andes mountains, the weather around Torres del Paine Park and El Chaltén is remarkably unpredictable. There are two components, however, which you will likely experience every day: wind and precipitation.

There is almost always a mild 9–13 mph (15–20 km/h) wind blowing through the region, with stronger winds likely. At their worst, these winds can reach 90 mph (150 km/h). These extreme gusts have been known to blow hikers off the trail and cause injury.  These winds also blow moisture into the park, causing almost daily rain and occasional snow bursts. 

You should see at least a bit of sunshine every day, hopefully after a rainstorm to dry you off. But because of the angle of the sun at this latitude, solar rays are more powerful and you’re likely to get burned if you don’t wear your sunscreen.

Note: If you’re taking the boat navigation on Lago Grey, severe weather can sometimes disrupt the voyage. In this case, you will need to take an alternate catamaran on Lago Pehoé to Paine Grande directly (or vice versa).

Best regards,

Pygmy Elephant

WEATHER & WIND IN TORRES DEL PAINE

Rain is an almost daily occurrence in the Torres del Paine Park, but you might also see snow in October, November, March, and April. In the high summer months from December to February, it might rain a bit less. In any case, plan on getting wet. CONAF, which manages Torres del Paine park, recommends Meteored, which is linked below (access using a browser capable of translation).

You’ll be somewhat protected in areas of Torres del Paine Park by the nearby mountains, but in other areas the open landscape will leave you vulnerable to the winds. Keep an eye out for lenticular clouds forming on mountains; these are a sign that harsh weather is brewing. Click the link below to check wind conditions before you start your hike each day.

WEATHER & WIND IN EL CHALTÉN

When hiking in El Chaltén, you can expect similar patterns of unpredictable mountain weather. You will still have some wind protection during most of the hike, as these treks take you through many winding valley trails. We still recommend checking the weather each day to properly prepare for your hike. Click the links below to check the weather forecast and wind forecast for the Chaltén area. 

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

Ask your hotel reception and hut wardens about current route conditions. Most of the accommodations, especially the mountain huts, have some of the most up-to-date information on trails, including potential dangers.

VIDEO LINKS

For inquiries regarding your specific itinerary, please contact your group leader or key travel builder. If you have any questions about the content of this email, feel free to reply here.