After the Patagonian International Marathon: Torres del Paine by Vehicle

The Route: Puerto Natales → Torres del Paine viewpoints → Puerto Natales Logistics: Guided tour or hire car. A long day by road, with short stops. Marathon Month: September Duration: Day trip

Puerto Natales ──(road journey into the park)──> Viewpoints
      ▲                                              │
      └───────────────(return by the same road)─────┘

The race runs on roads south-west of Torres del Paine National Park, and the mountains it is named for are never far from view. The day after the race is not the time for trails. A vehicle-based day gives the scenery with almost none of the walking.

September in the park: late winter. Temperatures are cold, the days are short, and the wind can be fierce. Snow can close roads or limit access. Operating arrangements for the park in early September are not guaranteed, so check gate opening, road status and tour availability before booking. The prices of park entry change, so check the park's own website.

The day

Book a guided tour from Puerto Natales or hire a car and driver. Tour companies in town run daily trips into the park in the cooler months, though departures are fewer than in summer and some are cancelled for weather. A hire car gives more control, but the roads are gravel in places and the weather can change quickly. A driver who knows the road is a safer choice after a marathon.

A standard route follows the main park road past lakes and viewpoints, with stops at waterfalls and roadside lookouts. Most stops are a few minutes' walk from the car on flat or gently sloping paths, and you can skip any that look steep. Do not plan a hike to the base of the Torres or to the main glacier viewpoints. Those are full-day trails and unsuitable on tired legs.

Race entry does not include park admission. Buy tickets ahead if the park requires it, and carry identification.

Practicalities

Take food and water for the day. Facilities inside the park are limited in the winter months. Allow a full day, typically 10 to 12 hours from Puerto Natales, and agree the plan and price with the driver in advance. Wear layers, windproof outerwear and gloves.

No overnight stay is needed. If you would prefer to avoid the long drive, the option of staying near the finish is described in the Río Serrano itinerary.