Rules and Best Practices in Torres del Paine

Visiting Torres del Paine National Park is an unforgettable experience—an encounter with nature in its purest form. However, enjoying this natural paradise comes with a great responsibility: caring for and preserving its fragile ecosystem. Due to its unique biodiversity and delicate ecological balance, it is essential for every visitor to respect the established rules and adopt responsible tourism practices.

From trip planning to your stay in the park, every action you take can contribute to its conservation. Following park rules not only protects local flora and fauna but also ensures the safety of all hikers. Additionally, reducing our environmental impact helps keep trails, lakes, and mountains pristine.

Below, we explain the park’s main rules and provide a short list of best practices to consider when visiting.

Torres del Paine National Park rules

The park has strict regulations to ensure both visitor safety and biodiversity protection. Some of the most important rules include:

• Mandatory registration: All visitors must pay the entrance fee and register at the official access points.

• No campfires allowed: Lighting fires is strictly prohibited in all areas of the park. Only camping stoves may be used in designated areas.

• Restricted circulation: Visitors must stay on designated trails and camp only in authorized areas.

• No drone flying: The use of drones is not allowed in the park as they can disturb wildlife and the natural environment.

• No aerial sports permitted: Activities such as paragliding, base jumping, and skydiving are prohibited within the park.

• No smoking on trails: Smoking is completely banned on trails and in unauthorized areas.

• Waste management: All waste, including organic matter, must be removed from the park. Those caught littering may face fines under Law 21.123, which penalizes individuals who litter or abandon waste in national parks, rivers, lakes, and other protected areas.

• Wildlife protection: Feeding or disturbing animals, as well as collecting plants or natural elements, is not allowed.

• Respectful coexistence: Visitors should maintain a peaceful and respectful atmosphere for fellow hikers.

• No pets allowed: Domestic animals are prohibited in the park to protect native wildlife.

• No cycling on trails: Bicycles can damage trails and pose a safety risk to visitors.

• No swimming allowed: Swimming in lakes, lagoons, or rivers within the park is prohibited to preserve aquatic ecosystems and prevent safety hazards.

Best practices for responsible tourism

In addition to following park rules, visitors can adopt habits that reduce their impact and contribute to the conservation of this natural environment:

• Plan your visit responsibly: Research park conditions and choose reusable camping gear to minimize waste.

• Reduce light and noise pollution: Avoid using bright artificial lights at night and keep conversations at a moderate volume to avoid disturbing nocturnal wildlife.

• Use designated facilities: When available, use restrooms and recycling stations in camping areas.

• Be mindful of weather conditions: Patagonia’s weather is unpredictable; wear appropriate clothing and follow park rangers’ recommendations to avoid risks.

• Lead by example: If you see someone violating park rules, inform them respectfully or report it to park rangers.

Enjoy Torres del Paine with a guided tour

If you have little trekking experience or prefer to explore Torres del Paine National Park without worrying about planning, a guided tour is an excellent option. At Outdoor Index, we offer excursions in Torres del Paine with expert guides who ensure a safe experience. Additionally, our guides speak both English and Spanish, making it easier to learn about the park’s flora, fauna, and geography.

Learn more about our excursions, schedules, and prices at the following link: The Best of Torres del Paine.

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