Few companies operate the full circuit, and we are proud to have pioneered the route, leading our first group of adventurers around the massif in the 1980s.

Trek the O with reservations at the best lodging options on the route and porters to carry your gear, making this challenging trek one step easier.

We work with expert local guides who are truly the best in Patagonia, keeping you safe and supported throughout your exhilarating wilderness adventure.

Expect extreme weather conditions that can change from one moment to the next. Be prepared for everything, especially strong winds, sun, or even snow.

This trek is supported by porters who transport overnight necessities (which must fit into a provided 15-liter stuff sack). Your larger luggage will be kept in secure storage until you arrive back at Remota Patagonia Lodge after the O Trek. Sleeping bags and sleeping pads are provided at the campsites (though you are also welcome to bring your own sleeping bag, if you prefer), and linens and comforters are provided at all the refugios and at the mountain cabins. All you'll need to hike with is a daypack for your water bottles/hydration pack, warm jacket, rain gear, and other personal items. Please note that porters will not carry glass, books, or electronic devices.

You will be staying in the best available accommodation throughout the trip. For all eight nights on the O Circuit trek, you will share the bathroom facilities (separate men's and women's facilities). Under normal circumstances, you will have hot water both in the evenings and early mornings. There are three nights of camping in double tents; sleeping bags and sleeping pads are provided. For two of the three camping nights, the tents are on raised platforms five feet off the ground. There are four nights at simple mountain dormitories, sharing bunkbed rooms between four to six MT Sobek guests on three nights, and in private bunkbed rooms for one night (note that there is the option to sleep in a tent, if preferred over sharing a bunkbed rooms). The one night at scenic cabins features private cabins for every one to two guests, with two twin beds; single guests may need to share with another same-gender single MT Sobek guest. For the two nights before and one night after the O Circuit trek, you'll stay at comfortable, well-located hotels with private en-suite bathrooms.

Yes, sleeping bags are provided for camping nights, and are cleaned daily between users. We recommend you bring your own sleeping bag liner, which can be packed into the 15-liter stuff sack that we provide, and carried by the porters.

Many prefer to bring their own sleeping bag for a higher level of comfort and hygiene. If you do, porters will carry it on your behalf, in addition to your 15-liter stuff sack. We recommend a sleeping bag rated to 20-25 degrees F (3-season). We don't anticipate temperatures will drop that low during the trip, but we recommend that your sleeping bag be rated 20 degrees lower than the typical nighttime lows at your camp site, and this rating meets that guideline. Down-filled sleeping bags are recommended; synthetic bags don't hold up as well against the cold.

The hotels at the start and end of the trip have electricity. Note that the electricity supply at the campsites, refugios, and mountain cabins on the O Circuit is generator-driven and may be shut off from 11:00 pm to 6:00 or 7:00 am.

The tents do not have electricity inside. For the camping nights, outlets are available in the restaurant to charge devices (with limited hours as described above). We recommend that you bring a small external power bank (portable charger) as a back-up for recharging your phone or other devices.

Yes, weather conditions permitting, you will have a breathtaking view from the John Garner Pass out over the southernmost sector of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. The largest temperate ice sheet in the Southern Hemisphere, the Patagonian Ice Field is draped over the southern Andes Mountains, their jagged peaks piercing the ice and snow. During the trek you'll also see glaciers fed by the ice field, including the Dickson Glacier in the remote northern reaches of Torres del Paine, and enormous Grey Glacier.

Remota Patagonia Lodge is located on the Last Hope Sound, just a short walk from the charming town of Puerto Natales in southern Chile. Designed by award-winning architect German del Sol, the innovative structure was inspired by the old Patagonian shearing sheds tilted by the wind and prioritizes spectacular views throughout. The comfortable, modern guest rooms all feature views of the mountains, the sound, and the glaciers and are decorated with local wood accents and the finest Peruvian textiles. The hotel also features a heated pool, sauna, souvenir shop, bar, and an onsite restaurant featuring local seafood, exotic meats, local organic vegetables, and Chilean wines.

Located near the base of Torres del Paine's most famous hiking trail (Base of the Towers), the comfortable and relaxed hotel is the perfect base for exploring the National Park. The cozy nature-inspired rooms overlook Torres del Paine, ensuring that you are immersed in the serenity of this magical place. The hotel features onsite activities with expert guides, a welcome center, excursion center, outdoor store, sustainable bar, horse stables, modern restaurant, wellness center & spa, and a Chilean BBQ area.

Camp Seron is the first campsite reached on the O Circuit Trek, reached by hiking through an ancient forest of lenga trees and across rivers, with classic Patagonian landscapes along the way. Premium camping features large 2-person tents set up on a raised platform 5.2 feet off the ground, accessed by a sturdy metal ladder. Sleeping bag, high-density foam mat, and pillow are provided. There is a dining room, bar, Wi-Fi, and shared bathrooms with hot showers.

Refugio Dickson is the gateway to the northern sector of Torres del Paine National Park, with an exceptional location on the edge of Lake Dickson. Enjoy views of the Dickson Glacier, along with the Tridente, Escudo, Cabeza del Indio, and Los Gemelos mountains, among others. The dormitory rooms have comfortable bunks sleeping 4-6 guests each (sharing only with fellow MT Sobek group members), with linens, pillow, and blanket. Alternately, guests can choose to sleep in a basic tent with sleeping bag and sleeping pad. There are shared bathrooms (separate for men and women), hot showers, and a bar and restaurant. The dormitories do not have heating; however, slow-burning wood is available in the common areas.

Located deep within Torres del Paine National Park, amid a forest of lenga and coigüe trees, Camp Los Perros is one of the most remote spots on the Paine Massif Circuit, a rest stop before tackling the famous and challenging John Gardner Pass. Sleep in a basic tent with sleeping bag and sleeping pad provided. There are shared bathrooms (separate for men and women) and cold water showers. MT Sobek porter staff prepare hearty meals to fuel you for the continuing trek. A minimarket has a limited assortment of general supplies, drinks, chocolate, energy bars, and cookies available to purchase. There is no WiFi or cell service available at this remote camp.

Refugio Grey is the closest accommodations to Grey Glacier and a launch point for hiking excursions on the glacier, kayaking and hiking to the suspension bridges with panoramic views of Campos de Hielo Sur. The dormitory rooms have comfortable bunks sleeping 4-6 guests each (sharing only with fellow MT Sobek group members), with linens, pillow, and blanket. Alternately, guests can choose to sleep in a basic tent with sleeping bag and sleeping pad. There are shared bathrooms (separate for men and women), hot showers, and a bar and restaurant. The rooms are not heated. The corridors and common areas are heated with slow combustion firewood. WiFi is available for a fee.

Located on the banks of Pehoe Lake, this remote mountain lodge is an ideal launch point for hiking trails to Torres del Paine's French Valley and Grey Glacier. The dormitory rooms have comfortable bunks, as well as drawers to put away gear and a safety box if required. The on-site restaurant offers American cuisine, and the bar is a great place to exchange stories with fellow travelers.

These eight charming cabins, located at the base of the "horns" (Cuernos del Paine) at the heart of the W Route, offer spectacular views of Los Cuernos - especially at sunset, when the sun hits the horns. After trekking through Torres del Paine, you'll undoubtedly be ready to recharge your battery with a warm meal and a good night's sleep in a real bed, while all others nearby have to camp to enjoy this privileged location.

Camp Chileno is the closest campsite to the Base of the Towers, perfect for those who want to wake up before sunrise to hike to this iconic viewpoint in time to see the sunrise hit the towers. Premium camping features large 2-person tents set up on a raised platform 5.2 feet off the ground, accessed by a sturdy metal ladder. Sleeping bag, high-density foam mat, and pillow are provided. There is a dining room, bar, and shared bathrooms with hot showers.

Remota Patagonia Lodge is located on the Last Hope Sound, just a short walk from the charming town of Puerto Natales in southern Chile. Designed by award-winning architect German del Sol, the innovative structure was inspired by the old Patagonian shearing sheds tilted by the wind and prioritizes spectacular views throughout. The comfortable, modern guest rooms all feature views of the mountains, the sound, and the glaciers and are decorated with local wood accents and the finest Peruvian textiles. The hotel also features a heated pool, sauna, souvenir shop, bar, and an onsite restaurant featuring local seafood, exotic meats, local organic vegetables, and Chilean wines.

Our groups are intentionally kept small to allow for a deeper experience with the people and wildlife you encounter on the way. It also allows us to take advantage of the many unexpected invitations and opportunities that would be impossible with larger groups.
 

Small Group Travel

Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with friends, join one of our over 500 scheduled departures where you’ll travel in the company of like-minded adventurers. They love being engaged, energized, and inspired. Each with their own story to tell, they make fascinating and entertaining travel companions. You may just come home with a new travel buddy. Plus, with an average of 8 to 10 guests per scheduled group, you’ll have unparalleled access to your expert guides and the space to enjoy your adventure free from the limitations of a tour bus.
 

Private Adventures

Private adventures with MT Sobek are perfect for those travelers who enjoy the privacy and flexibility of traveling on their own but want the peace of mind that comes with having all the logistics handled by experts. Most of our itineraries can be made private. We offer hundreds of itineraries and dates that your group can easily take over, or, if the date you’re looking for isn’t available, we’ll make it happen for you. 
 

Custom Adventures

Whatever the occasion—family reunion, milestone celebration, an ultimate road trip with friends, we can make your dream trip happen. Experience MT Sobek’s blend of insider access and adventure style on an itinerary exclusively created for you and your family, colleagues, or friends. We have a dedicated team of Custom Trip Specialists. 
 

Solo Travelers

Small group travel is perfect for solo adventurers looking to explore with like-minded people. Right from your first meeting, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you start to bond with your fellow travelers. No matter where they come from, it turns out that simply having a shared love of travel really brings people together. Whether you’re on the trail, watching wildlife, or enjoying a meal around a family table, there are plenty of opportunities to share stories and talk about highlights from the day.

From luxury hotels to rustic lodging, deluxe camping to wilderness camping, check out our full range of accommodation styles. Some trips may include a combination of styles, expertly picked for the destination.

Hotels at the Heart of Adventure

Where else to stay when visiting the Grand Canyon but perched on the North Rim of this natural wonder? How better to appreciate the fjords of Norway than to slumber in a brightly colored fisherman’s cottage by the water’s edge? Or to spot the “Big Five” from your luxury safari camp’s private veranda? We seek out small boutique hotels and lodges that treat you to the “must-have” experiences of the region.

Luxury Hotels
Revel in pure luxury at our hand-picked 5-star hotels—some of the most exquisite properties on the planet. With excellent amenities and services, including restaurants and wellness facilities, these accommodations are consistently top-rated by guests and provide an ultimate pampered experience.
 

Comfortable Hotels
The majority of our properties include small hotels and inns with a local flair. Well-appointed with modern amenities, many are family-run, adding to their character and charm. In some destinations, properties are chosen for their proximity to National Parks, wildlife and nature and are more basic. 
 

Rustic Lodging
Our rustic lodgings category includes remote lodges, mountain huts, homestays, guesthouses, gers, and fixed Bedouin camps. These accommodations may include bunk rooms and shared bathroom facilities. They truly get you to the heart of the destination.
 

Luxury Safari Camps & Lodges
We work with the finest African safari camps and global eco-lodges to bring you an ultimate experience that embodies the romance of adventure travel. We choose award-winning and top-rated accommodations with excellent amenities and services, including beautifully appointed safari tents and cabins. 

Adventure Camping

The only way to experience some of our most remote mountain and river destinations is to camp. Everest Base Camp, Kilimanjaro, the Middle Fork of the Salmon River—some of our most popular adventures—include at least five nights of camping. However, the type of camp set up can be different, depending on the destination’s remoteness and how easy it is to transport gear. Here are our three main camping styles.

Deluxe Camping

• Roomy tents
• Mattresses with linens
• Dining table and chairs
• Guides prepare meals
• All set up for you
   

Comfortable Camping

• Roomy tents
• Sleeping bags and pads
• Dining table and chairs
• Guides prepare meals
• Some camp work may be required
   

Wilderness Camping

• Trekking tents
• Sleeping bags and pads
• Guests help set up camp
• Guides prepare meals

Expedition Cruising

Over the years, we’ve found that adventure cruising aboard a nimble small ship or deluxe yacht gives our guests an intimate expedition-like experience with maximum flexibility. We can navigate narrow waterways, pull right into private coves, and get you onshore quickly. No waiting in long lines to get off the boat and no crowds once you get on shore!

Luxury Small Ship
Enjoy a luxurious 5-star cruise aboard modern vessels with elegant interior designs that enhance your onboard experience. Our luxury Galapagos ship, the Endemic, carry a maximum of 16 passengers, while polar expedition ships such as the Magellan Explorer carry up to 70 passengers. These ships include spas, bars, climate-control en-suite rooms, and an abundance of state-of-the-art equipment for ultimate cruising. Our guide to crew ratio is guide and crew service is world-class.
 

Comfortable Small Ship
Our comfortable 3 and 4-star ships are well-designed for relaxation and all equipped with modern amenities. Aboard you’ll enjoy en-suite amenities, air-conditioning, attractive dining, bar and lounge areas, and outdoor decks for viewing the scenery. Whatever star rating of ship you choose, you can be assured of the same world-class guide and crew team, and a first-rate experience.

Our adventures are categorized by activity levels from 1 to 5. Level 1 trips are the easiest, Level 3 trips are moderate, and Level 5 trips are our most strenuous—perfect for those seeking the ultimate challenge. We also offer new flexible trips featuring activities rated at Level 2 or Level 3, providing two activity options to match your preference on the day! For all trips, we encourage you to review the activity level and read the detailed activity overview for your chosen itinerary to ensure you’re fully prepared for your adventure.
 

Easygoing – Level 1

Our most relaxed style of travel. Come prepared with flexibility and a spirit of adventure. Activities may include game drives along dusty or bumpy roads, canoe rides or river floats, sailing, or walks of up to 30 minutes on flat terrain. Trail conditions may include cobblestones, pavement, gravel, or dirt paths. On some days you may be on your feet for much of the time.
 

Easy-to-Moderate – Level 2

Active trips are appropriate for most travelers. You don’t need any previous kayaking, hiking, or other experience, but should be in generally fit condition. Trips may include short hikes or walking of up to 3 hours at elevations below 6,000 feet, sea kayaking in protected waters, or river rafting on Class I-II rapids.
 

Multi-Level – Level 2 & 3

These flexible trips are perfect for travelers seeking a range of activity levels, from easy to moderate, with two options to suit your preference and energy on the day. This type of trip also enables you to travel with friends who are more, or less, active than you, and either start or end the activity together. For example, Level 2 guests may choose a 3-hour hike while Level 3 guests may choose a 6-hour hike. This variety ensures that there’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a leisurely experience or a bit more of a challenge. No matter your choice, you’ll enjoy breathtaking scenery, unforgettable adventures, and plenty of time together as a group.
 

Moderate – Level 3

The majority of MT Sobek trips. These typically include 3 to 6 hours of physical activity per day, such as rafting or wilderness camping. Eight to ten-mile hikes can reach up to 10,000 feet and may include some steep ascents or descents. River rafting trips include Class III rapids and sea kayaking trips to visit protected waters.
 

Moderate-to-Challenging – Level 4

Trips for experienced travelers seeking full days of activity and a higher level of physical challenge. Hikes and treks of up to 14 miles and 4,000 feet of elevation gains and losses per day cover steep, sometimes rugged terrain, potentially into areas of exposure and elevations exceeding 10,000 feet. River rafting trips include Class IV-V rapids; sea kayaking trips include 4 to 5 hours of paddling per day in areas of open water with waves and tides.
 

Ultimate Challenge – Level 5

Our most demanding trips for guests seeking a physical challenge. Trips include trekking without vehicle support over steep, often rugged terrain at elevations over 10,000 feet. Daily hikes of up to 12 hours or more may include substantial altitude gains and losses into remote areas of wilderness. River rafting trips include Class IV-V rapids and areas where portaging is needed. Previous experience, as well as a completed physician’s certificate, is required.

We Are Committed to Sustainability

At MT Sobek, sustainability isn’t just a principle; it’s woven into the very fabric of how we operate. We don’t simply observe the world’s unique cultures and fragile ecosystems—we take an active role in their preservation. Supporting organizations dedicated to environmental conservation and community well-being is part of our DNA. Over the years, we have contributed over half a million dollars to conservation efforts and volunteered hundreds of hours to initiatives like Yosemite Facelift. Our programs work to ensure that the wild and beautiful places we visit will continue to thrive, with a special emphasis on sustainable practices and positive social impact. From funding reforestation projects to supporting local artisans, our commitment to sustainability goes hand-in-hand with unforgettable adventure.
 

Protect The Galapagos

MT Sobek is proud to support the Galapagos Conservancy by making an annual conservation investment to its Santiago Society program. Galapagos Conservancy is dedicated exclusively to the long-term protection of the Galapagos Islands, and collaborates closely with the Charles Darwin Foundation, the Galapagos National Park, and many other institutions that are committed to the conservation of the entire archipelago.
 

Save the Tiger

MT Sobek guide Brian Weirum has made saving tigers his life’s mission and we are proud to support the Fund For the Tiger, raising over $300,000 to help tiger conservation in India and Nepal. The fund aims to address the threats faced by these majestic big cats and ensure their survival for future generations.
 

Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project

We are proud to work with the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP), based in Moshi, Tanzania, to improve the welfare and conditions for all Kilimanjaro porters. KPAP is an initiative of the International Mountain Explorers Connection (IMEC).
 

American Himalayan Foundation

Since our first treks in Nepal in 1969, Mountain Travel Sobek has worked with Himalayan communities to help support their way of life. We are also proud supporters of the American Himalayan Foundation which brings shelter, safety, education, health, and opportunity to people across the Himalaya. The AHF opens doors to education and health care, builds stronger communities, and works in a way that respects both tradition and innovation.
 

Dolma Ling Nunnery

As part of our philanthropic endeavors, we are proud supporters of the Tibetan Nuns Project at the Dolma Ling Nunnery & Institute in Dharamsala, northern India. The Tibetan Nuns Project provides education and support to refugee nuns from Tibet and to nuns from the Himalayan regions of India.
 

High Atlas Foundation

The High Atlas Foundation (HAF) empowers Moroccan communities through sustainable development. Focused on education, women’s empowerment, and environmental stewardship, HAF fosters local leadership to drive impactful change. From planting trees to building schools, their initiatives improve livelihoods while preserving cultural heritage, creating lasting opportunities for underserved rural and urban populations.
 

Preserve Alaska

The Alaska Conservation Foundation is the only public foundation solely dedicated to conservation in Alaska. The ACF’s vision is for an inspiring Alaska that is naturally thriving, biologically and culturally diverse, rich in wildlands, bountiful in terrestrial and marine life, sustainable in its economic development and thoughtfully protected—forever. MT Sobek supports the ACF by sharing their mission and vision with generations of adventure travelers.

National Park Foundation

As the official nonprofit partner of the National Park Service, the National Park Foundation generates private support and builds strategic partnerships to protect and enhance America’s national parks for present and future generations. We are proud to support the National Park Foundation to help sustain over 400 national parks in the USA, preserving 85 million acres of the world’s most treasured landscapes, ecosystems, and historical sites. 

National Park Service

MT Sobek is proud to be an authorized concessionaire of the National Park Service and a permitted outfitter under the National Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management. We always follow Leave No Trace principles and seek to drive awareness of fragile ecosystems to help support their long-term sustainability.
 

Western Rivers Conservancy

MT Sobek is proud to support Western Rivers Conservancy, an organization dedicated to protecting and preserving the vital rivers of the American West. With a shared passion for safeguarding the natural world, MT Sobek aligns with WRC’s mission to conserve critical habitats, secure public access to waterways, and ensure the sustainability of these lifelines for future generations. Together we’re working to make a meaningful impact on the preservation of our rivers.
 

Alianza Cero Basura

Alianza Cero Basura offers innovative solutions for sustainable living in Baja California Sur. It promotes waste reduction, recycling, and environmental education, providing tools and resources to empower communities. By fostering collaboration and eco-conscious practices, the hub inspires impactful change toward a zero-waste future.
 

Adventure Travel Conservation Fund

MT Sobek is proud to be a member of the Adventure Travel Conservation Fund (ATCF), an international nonprofit focused on funding on-the-ground conservation projects around the world. The ATCF is committed to protecting wild destinations and provides members in the travel and outdoor industry an avenue to directly advance critical projects that protect people, species, cultures, and places.
 

Ride 4 a Woman

We are proud to support Ride 4 a Woman, a charitable organization that empowers the women of Bwindi, Uganda More than 300 women from 11 villages now use or work at the Ride 4 a Woman community center, where they can learn to pedal sew, weave baskets, dance, sing and drum; learning new skills, making a living and making it possible for their children to gain an education.
 

Community Rhino Conservation Initiative

We are proud to support the Community Rhino Conservation Initiative to help benefit the communities and wildlife of Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe. The CRCI has re-introduced rhino to this part of Zimbabwe in a highly secure and sustainable way to eventually accommodate a viable population of free roaming black and white rhino.

Exito Planet Care Ambassador Carbon Offsetting

We are proud to work with Exito travel to book flights for our guests. Exito is a Planet Care Ambassador, committed to taking concrete steps to minimize travelers’ flight impacts on the environment by fully offsetting carbon emissions.