From Puerto Natales: Full-Day French Valley Hike

Set out on a captivating full-day trek through Torres del Paine National Park, where the stunning French Valley awaits. This immersive adventure from Puerto Natales promises breathtaking views of the iconic Paine Horns and the serene turquoise waters of Pehoe Lake. Led by certified guides, you’ll hike 20 kilometers and enjoy a scenic catamaran ride to the trailhead. But the real highlight? Savoring a locally-sourced lunch at the French Valley lookout, surrounded by one of Chile’s most beautiful landscapes. This excursion offers a chance to discover the park’s natural wonders in an unforgettable way. What could possibly await you at the end of this captivating journey?

Key Points

• This 20-kilometer trek in Torres del Paine National Park offers a 12-hour excursion with stunning views of the Paine mountain range.
• The tour includes a guided hike, entrance fees, a 30-minute catamaran ride, and a locally-sourced lunch at the French Valley lookout.
• Participants must be at least 11 years old, and proper attire and environmental respect are required for a safe and enjoyable experience.
• The tour includes pickup service from accommodations in Puerto Natales and covers medical expenses during the excursion.
• The hike showcases the park’s diverse natural scenery, including Paine Horns, Hoja, Espada, and Fortaleza mountains, as well as turquoise lake reflections.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Activity

The French Valley Hike is a full-day adventure that takes visitors on a 20-kilometer trek through the stunning landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park.

Priced from $110.00 per person, this 12-hour excursion allows guests to witness the majestic Paine Horns, the peaks of Hoja, Espada, and Fortaleza mountains.

The hike begins with a 30-minute catamaran ride to the Paine Grande camping site, followed by a guided walk along Pehoe Lake, culminating in a rest and lunch break at the French Valley lookout.

With a team of certified English and Spanish-speaking guides, hiking poles, and first aid kits, this activity caters to adventurous travelers seeking to enjoy Patagonia’s natural wonders.

Booking Information

Visitors can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Plus, they can reserve their spot without immediate payment through the "Reserve now & pay later" option.

The tour includes pickup service from accommodations in Puerto Natales, so travelers only need to provide their hotel details.

The booking process is straightforward and hassle-free:

1. Select your preferred tour date.
2. Enter your accommodation details for pickup.
3. Review and accept the booking terms.
4. Confirm your reservation without immediate payment.

Highlights of the Experience

After booking the full-day French Valley hike, visitors can look forward to an exhilarating adventure.

The trail offers stunning views of the Paine Horns, Hoja, Espada, and Fortaleza mountains. Trekking along the 20-kilometer path, hikers will reach the French Valley lookout, where they can rest and enjoy a provided lunch.

The experience also includes a 30-minute catamaran ride to the Paine Grande camping site. Throughout the journey, a certified English and Spanish-speaking guide will provide support and share insights about the region’s natural wonders.

Hikers will also be equipped with hiking poles and have access to a first aid kit, ensuring a safe and comfortable excursion.

Included Amenities

What does the full-day French Valley hike include in terms of amenities?

Travelers can expect a certified English and Spanish-speaking guide to lead the way. The tour also provides hiking poles and a first aid kit for added safety and comfort.

Plus, the entrance fee to Torres del Paine National Park and the catamaran ticket are covered. Lastly, travelers will receive travel insurance that covers medical expenses during the excursion.

The included amenities ensure a seamless and worry-free experience, allowing hikers to focus on enjoying the stunning natural beauty of the French Valley.

• Certified English and Spanish-speaking guide
• Hiking poles and first aid kit
• Entrance fee and catamaran ticket
• Travel insurance covering medical expenses

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Important Considerations

The full-day French Valley hike isn’t suitable for certain individuals, including children under 11, pregnant women, those with mobility impairments, and people with low fitness levels.

Participants should come prepared with proper attire, such as layered clothing, waterproof shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Bringing necessary medication is also important.

Smoking, making fires, and littering are prohibited throughout the hike. Visitors are expected to respect the natural environment and follow the instructions of the certified English and Spanish-speaking guide.

Following these considerations will help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience during the 12-hour, 20-kilometer hike through Torres del Paine National Park.

Scenic Views Along the Hike

Hikers embarking on the full-day French Valley trek in Torres del Paine National Park can expect to be treated to a visual feast of stunning natural scenery.

The diverse landscape offers:

1. Breathtaking views of the iconic Paine Horns, towering peaks that seem to pierce the sky.
2. The majestic Hoja, Espada, and Fortaleza mountains, their jagged silhouettes reflected in the serene Pehoe Lake.
3. The serene turquoise waters of Pehoe Lake, contrasting with the rugged, snow-capped peaks surrounding it.
4. The awe-inspiring French Valley lookout, where hikers can pause and take in the grandeur of the Andes mountains.

This visually stunning hike promises to leave a lasting impression on all who undertake it.

Catamaran Ride to Paine Grande

A 30-minute catamaran ride transports hikers from the Pudeto dock to the Paine Grande camping site, a crucial part of the French Valley hike. This scenic boat journey across Pehoe Lake offers a chance to rest and take in the stunning vistas of the Paine Horns and Paine Grande mountain range. The catamaran ride is an integral component of the experience, allowing adventurers to access the trailhead and begin their trek through the French Valley.

Feature	Details
Duration	30 minutes
Departure Point	Pudeto dock
Arrival Point	Paine Grande camping site
Views	Paine Horns, Paine Grande mountain range
Purpose	Access the French Valley trailhead

Lunch Break at the Lookout

After the catamaran ride and arrival at the Paine Grande camping site, hikers embark on the next leg of their journey through the French Valley.

As they reach the French Valley lookout, weary adventurers are rewarded with a well-deserved lunch break.

This scenic rest stop offers:

1. Breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Paine Horns, Hoja, Espada, and Fortaleza mountains.
2. A chance to refuel with a delicious, locally-sourced lunch provided as part of the tour.
3. Time to rest, recharge, and take in the serene beauty of the natural landscape.
4. An opportunity to snap photos and cherish the memorable experience of hiking through this stunning region.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Fit Do I Need to Be for This Hike?

This hike requires a moderate fitness level. It is not suitable for individuals with low fitness, mobility issues, or those under 11 years old. Participants should be able to complete a 12-hour, 20-kilometer hike with significant elevation gain.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Participants can bring their own snacks and beverages on the hike, but a provided lunch is included in the tour price. However, the operator recommends following park regulations and not littering or making fires along the trail.

Is the Hike Suitable for People With Knee or Back Problems?

The hike is not recommended for those with knee or back problems, as it involves a long, strenuous 20-kilometer trek with significant elevation gain. The terrain can be challenging for individuals with mobility issues.

Can I Take My Dog on the Hike?

Unfortunately, this hike is not suitable for bringing dogs. The tour specifically states it is not recommended for those with mobility impairments, and dogs would likely struggle with the challenging terrain and long distance. Participants are advised to leave their pets at home.

Do I Need to Have Previous Hiking Experience?

Previous hiking experience isn’t required, but the hike may not be suitable for those with low fitness levels. The terrain is moderate, so some experience is recommended to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

The Sum Up

Set out on a breathtaking journey through Torres del Paine National Park, where you’ll witness the stunning French Valley and its captivating natural wonders. Savor a locally-sourced lunch while taking in the panoramic views, and cap off the day with a scenic catamaran ride. This full-day excursion, led by experienced guides, promises an unforgettable adventure in one of Chile’s most beautiful landscapes.

You can check if your dates are available here: