What clothes should I take to Torres del Paine?

Due to the low temperatures and the strong Patagonian winds, it is essential to take warm clothes. That's why you must pack waterproof coats and trousers, warm socks and vests, headgear with earmuffs and gloves, as well as anoraks, sunglasses with UV protection and rubber-soled shoes. However, it is necessary to leave some space for shorts, sandals and T-shirts, which you will wear on the few sunny days and inside the hotel, since most of the lodging places are well heated.

Where should I go if I have a problem in Torres del Paine National Park?

If you have a problem in the protected area, you should go the national park's administration office, on the border of Toro Lake. This office has telephones, a radio system, first aid, groceries and a garage.

Is there an important town near Torres del Paine National Park?

145 kilometers away from the national part is Puerto Natales, one of the most important towns in Chilean Patagonia. With a population of more than 19 thousand, this city has all basic facilities (medical and communication), as well as a network of tourist services, shops and bank agencies with ATMs.

Will I have any problem using my credit cards?

No way. Credit cards are accepted in all shops and tourist centers. The most common ones are Visa, Master Card, Diners Club, American Express and Maestro. Besides, dollars and euros can be used in all transactions.

However, it is advisable to take the national currency (Chilean pesos) because this is the only way to pay in smaller shops and rural areas.

Where can I exchange dollars or euros?

It is advisable to do so in banks and exchange agencies. It is also possible to do so in hotels. This way you can avoid problems. You should bear in mind that the exchange rate fluctuates, though not usually suddenly.

When are shops open?

Generally, shops are open Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., and from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.; on Saturdays, they are open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where can I buy handicrafts?

If you want to take a souvenir from Patagonia, you should go the area called Ether Aike Handicrafts Village, where you will be able to buy handmade things inspired by the history, flora and fauna of this region. The Handicrafts Village is on the corner of Phillipi and Angamos Streets. It is open from 10:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. (in summer) and from 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. (in winter).

Is the tap water drinkable?

The tap water is quite good, but it is always better to buy bottled drinks, especially if you are visiting places far away from the cities.

Is it obligatory to tip?

In restaurants, pubs and cafés, although it is usual to leave 10% of the bill as a tip, this is not strictly necessary. In taxis a tip is never left, but it is customary to round the price upward, leaving the small change to the driver.

Is Puerto Natales a dangerous city?

Far from that, Puerto Natales is a quiet and peaceful city, where thefts are not common. In case you have a problem, you should go to the Carabineros Police Station, on Tomas Rogers 274, Puerto Natales. The telephone number is (61) 411-133/ 411-592. If you need more information, you can go to the National Tourism Service of Chile (SERNATUR), on Pedro Montt 19. Telephone Number (61) 412-125. You can also go to the Tourist Information Office of Puerto Natales Town Hall or the Regional Historic Museum, on Bulnez 285. Telephone Number (61) 411-263.