There is actually a way to make it cheaper. There are even some “hidden local options” not really written online, so read until the end.
Torres del Paine National Park — one of the most famous national parks in Patagonia. Yes, this is where the iconic Mirador Las Torres is located. But first—there’s something you need to know.
Camping is insanely expensive + reservation hell
You need to book campsites in advance, and they sell out fast. Some people say you should book 3 months ahead. Honestly, this is tough for backpackers.
👉 Another confusing thing: Torres del Paine campsites are operated by two different companies, so you may need to book on multiple websites depending on your route.
Rough cost in 2026
⚠️ Prices change a lot here.
There were even reports of price increases from May 2026.
● Access
From Puerto Natales
Bus round trip: 20,000–25,000 CLP (about 22–27 USD)● Entrance fee
Less than 3 days: CL$ 34,000 (about 36 USD)
More than 3 days: CL$ 48,500 (about 52 USD)● Internal transport
One way bus: 4,500 CLP (about 5 USD)● W Trek camps (per night)
Bring-your-own tent
1 person: 90 USD
2 people: 100 USD
Semi Equipped Camping (No sleeping bag)
1 person: 220 USD
2 people: 240 USD
Fully Equipped Camping
1 person: 290 USD
2 people: 320 USD● O Trek camp (per night)
Bring-your-own tent: 11–13 USD
Honestly… what is this? Can we just admit it? This is ridiculously expensive. Camping for 90 dollars with your own tent?! I couldn’t believe it.
Why it’s so expensive
Because it’s a highly regulated campsite:
- Toilets
- Hot showers
- Even mini bars in some places
This is not wild camping. It’s a fully managed tourism system.
And it gets worse. Reservations are basically required. Even 3 months in advance, everything can be fully booked. Only premium tents often remain. And yes… sometimes the “used tent smell” situation is real.
It’s tough for backpackers. If your plans are flexible or you’re traveling on a tight budget, this place can be frustrating. But still… if you come all the way to Patagonia, you’ll probably want to see it anyway.
So what can you do?
Three main options:
① Day trip from Puerto Natales
No sunrise view though.② Rent a car
Sleep in the car at the entrance parking lot, start hiking at 2 a.m for the sunrise.③ Go without reservation (!)
This is something I couldn’t find online. But I heard it directly from a park staff member.
Local tip (important)
If you show up without reservation, you might be allowed to do a self-camping permit for around 20 USD. A lot of backpackers I met in a hostel actually did this. Also, if weather gets bad, you can sometimes return to Puerto Natales and come back later.
■ This is not on the internet
Honestly, it feels strange that “walk-in” can be cheaper. But again—this is 2026 information. Do it at your own risk. What I want to say is: Don’t give up just because you couldn’t book.
■ What you should do first
Go to Puerto Natales and get local information. It’s worth it.
Recommended hostel
RedPointPatagonia
The staff there actually work in the national park. You might get very useful insider info.
My personal recommendation
For budget travelers, I actually recommend going to El Chaltén and hiking Mount Fitz Roy instead. Still expensive, yes—but there are ways to reduce costs, and it’s generally less crowded than Torres del Paine.
I’ll explain that in another post. check out this:
👉[2026 Edition] Patagonia Comparison: Torres del Paine is amazing, but I personally preferred El Chaltén
