We spent 3 months travelling and hiking almost all of the trails in Patagonia. We did everything from the most iconic walks to ones we had never heard of before we arrived. Here’s our favourite 7 multi-day hikes in Patagonia that we suggest every avid hiker add to their bucket list. There’s something here for every ability so have a read through and find one that’s perfect for you.
Dientes de Naverino – Naverino Island
54kms – 5 days
The most Southerly trek in the world. The location of this ‘trail’ alone makes for some incredibly harsh conditions. This plus the fact that there are no facilities and a very poorly marked trail means it is one for experienced hikes only. Good quality gear with the expectations of encountering, snow, hail and strong winds is essential, even in summer.
O and W circuits – Torres Del Paine, Chile
110km – 7 to 10 days
The most iconic trail in all of Patagonia. The Torres day hike as well as the W & O treks have a lot of hype surrounding them, but in our opinion they really do live up to it all. The walk is incredibly scenic and enjoyable and easily one of the best multi-day hikes in Patagonia.
The only downside here is the amount of people that it attracts, but it is easy to see why. Make the most of the long Patagonian summer days by starting early or a little later to avoid the masses.
The other great thing about Torres del Paine is there is a walk to suit every ability. If you feel 7 – 10 days of trekking is too much, look into hiking the W section, or basing yourself near the welcome center and doing some day walks instead. Have a look here for lots more detailed information about the trek.
Laguna Cerro Castillo Circuit – Villa Cerro Castillo, Chile
53km – 4 days
It doesn’t take long for the hike to Cerro Castillo to start climbing up. The hike is quite steep in a few sections and by no means is it easy. But the views along the way are mesmerising. There are 5 designated campsites along the way so you can plan accordingly.
The best part is that most people visiting Patagonia haven’t even heard of hike. This plus the fact that is a little more difficult to reach than others on this list but that means that you will encounter few people on the trail.
Tres lagos – El Chalten, Argentina
32 kms – 2 days
This stunning circuit takes in all of the highlights of El Chalten, combing both Laguna de Los Tres and Mt Fitz Roy into a stunning circuit. It can be completed in a day but we really recommend taking your time to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way. This was my favourite multi-day hikes in Patagonia. Read all about our hikes in El Chalten here.
Nahuel Huapi Traverse – Bariloche, Argentina
47 kms – 5 days
The classic hut to hut trek in the National Park of the same name just outside of Bariloche is usually completed in 5 days. However each hut has it’s own access track so you can make it as short or as long as you like. As you traverse through mountain ridges and valleys there are beautiful alpine lagunas that the brave can swim in. There are mountain huts along the trail, so it is better equipped than others but most will offer food and a place to camp or a bed for the night.
Lago Del Desierto Border Crossing – Chile + Argentina
34kms – 2 days
The ultimate adventure of crossing a border that can only be reached by foot or bicycle. There are a few different options to make this as challenging or easy as you like. Be sure to check up on recent ferry times and maybe even look into the option of getting transport for the first 15kms by car.
The Huemul Circuit – El Chalten, Argentina
65km – 4 days
This challenging hike is not for the faint hearted. The distances are short but the hiking is tough. There are 2 river crossing which need to be negotiated via a zip line and 2 mountain passes that can get extremely windy. Those who choose to tackle this trek will be rewarded with unparalleled scenery, isolation and one of the most picturesque campsites you can imagine. Another hike that easily makes the list as one of the premier multi-day hikes in Patagonia, especially as it doesn’t attract the same crowds some of the other hikes do. Read more here.
If you have any questions or are planning on tackling one of the hikes we have listed here please let us know in the comments below. Also have a read of our favourite day hikes in Patagonia.
If hiking independently isn’t for you Tour Radar offer some great deals on most of the hikes we have listed here.
