Torres Del Paine Full Circuit

This hike is on numerous top ten lists, so I couldn’t think of a better way to spend my twenty-fifth birthday, and it certainly doesn't disappoint. Nestled away far down south in Chilean Patagonia, this hike provides some of the most surreal sights that I've ever seen.

The hike starts with just a glimpse of the towers, but instead provides unspoiled nature and views out in the distance. Crazy winds and wild horses are some of the parts I remember best from this part.

After a couple of days, it’s like I stepped into another part of the world. Gone are the thriving colours of the first leg, replaced by harsh conditions, and impressive glaciers. The conditions start to get worse, and at one point, I’m walking through whiteout conditions, trail markers not visible as I’m making my way through a mountain pass, and guided only by GPS. By the time I was approaching the next camp, Park Rangers were coming up from the next camp to check why I hadn’t checked in yet.

Finally, after days of hiking, I'm back on the front. For hikers only doing the W Circuit, they’ll only see this part of the trail. Here is where the namesake towers are, jotting up above your surroundings.