Fri, Dec 11, 2009 2 Comments
A world of mountain that is located in Chilean’s Torres del Paine National park. Situated in Punta Arena’s northern side and southern part of Santiago, Cerro Paine Grande is regarded as its largest summit. The park that is extended upto 2,400 km², it is designated as the UNESCO’s Biosphere Reserve. The spot is regarded as paradise for the hikers and people can also opt for camping. Famously known as Cordillera del Pain and located in Patagonia’s heart, is regarded as the most magnificent mountains worldwide. Climbing on the mountains might prove to be the hardest but the challenge is always accepted by adventure people. However, its Northern tower is much easier than the one in Central and the Central route is very technical in nature. If not interested in hiking, than you can also opt for horse riding. You can attain half of the path on horse back and rest of the way could be achieved on foot. From South part of Santiago it is approximately 2,500 km and to the Punta Arena’s north side it is about 400 km. Decorated with beautiful granite monoliths, this is one of the beautiful sights worldwide. Its central tower being 2,460 meter tall, North Tower is taller by 2,260 meters the very first climbers of the former tower are Don Whillans and Chris Bonington and the latter was first hiked by Guido Monzino.
Known as the best place for adventurous hikers, the paths towards the main destination are in a good condition so, the hikers don’t have to come across any problem. To attain the towers, the climbers could opt for “W” route. You can begin your journey during day time to manage your time perfectly. The camping could be done on several selected parts. The best time to visit the park is from December to February as the season proves very favorable during day hiking.
Bus
The bus service is available from Puerto Natales that takes almost four hours.
Many private tour operators also provide the bus service.
The park is surrounded by beautiful mountains, lavishing lakes, gorgeous glaciers. In its close proximity are Los Glaciares National Park and Bernardo O’Higgins National Park. Formerly known as Parque Nacional de Turismo Lago, the park came into existence during 1959 and its name changed to Torres del Paine National Park in the year 1970. It is listed as UNESCO’s World Biosphere Reserve.
Lively Flora and fauna
Flora
The park conatins more than 85 types of plants.
Here are available total four zones of vegetable and these include Pre-Andean shrubland, Patagonian steppe, and Andean Desert and Magellanic deciduous forest.
The vicinity is very rich as far as its vegetation is concerned. Some of the vegetations include the Calceolaria uniflora, Embothrium coccineum, more than six types of Orchidaceae.
Fauna
Some of the mammals noticed in the area are Cougars, Guanacos and Foxes, among all.
The bird species include eagle, Andean Condor, Cinereous Harrier, Swan, goose, owl, hawk, rhea, ibis, caracara, etc.
Hostería Lago Grey
From the hotel premises you can take a look at magnificent views of glacier, Paine massif, and lake. The place located in a close proximity of Cordillera del Paine contains 30 spacious rooms with all the facilities.
Hotel Explora
The hotel is decorated in a very traditional manner and with its spacious 50 rooms, it offers restaurant, bar, conference hall, and gym, among all.
Hotel Río Serrano
From here you could be able to take magical views of the breathtaking mountains and it contains restaurant, bar, parking area, and internet, etc.
Hostería Las Torres
From the hotel premises, you could be able to take a look at magnificent wildlife and beautiful landscapes. Along with 56 spacious rooms, it also provides facilities like telephone, parking area, conference room, bar and restaurant, etc.
Hostería Cabañas del Paine
Holding 23 spacious rooms, from here you would be able to take look at the mountain range. It offers restaurant, bar, telephone connection, parking lot, etc.
29. June 2010 at 3:38 am
Torres del Paine National Park is adorned with beautiful vegetation.
In the park have been recorded 85 non-native plant species, of which 75 are of European origin and 31 are considered to be invasive..It is also home to the endangered mammal Chilean Huemul.
30. June 2010 at 6:11 am
The Torres Del Paine is indeed an awesome place for hiking..
It is surrounded amidst beautiful flora and fauna..!