Enjoy a 6.8-mile hike in the Pingo Valley where you can spot wild horses and fauna, learn about the land, and view a waterfall.

**Overview**

Prepare to be captivated by a truly special experience: a half-day trek through the breathtaking Pingo Valley. This hidden gem is beautifully situated within the dense and ancient forest that lies to the west of the iconic Torres del Paine National Park. Your adventure typically commences either at a pre-determined meeting location, ensuring a smooth start to your exploration, or with a convenient pickup directly from your accommodation. From there, you will embark on a memorable journey towards the life-giving Pingo River, following a gently undulating and inviting path that meanders through an untouched and remarkably preserved ancient forest.

As you traverse this pristine landscape, be sure to keep a watchful eye out for the elusive and sadly endangered Chilean deer, also known as the Huemul, which calls this valley home. You might also catch a glimpse of the spirited and untamed wild horses that roam freely across these lands. The culmination of this enriching hike is the arrival at the stunning Chorrillo Los Salmones viewpoint. Here, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of a cascading and powerful waterfall, aptly named for the salmon that can often be observed gracefully swimming downstream. After enjoying the splendor of this natural spectacle, you will then begin your return journey back to the starting point, reflecting on the beauty and serenity encountered along the way.

**Highlights**

* Embark on an unforgettable trek along the banks of the Pingo River, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the surrounding natural beauty and take in the impressive views of Big Paine, also known as Cerro Paine Grande, and the majestic Cordón Olguín mountain range.
* Delve deep into the heart of an ancient forest, a vibrant ecosystem teeming with life and flourishing with a rich tapestry of moss, delicate lichen, and lush ferns. This immersive experience will transport you to another world.
* Keep a vigilant watch for the diverse array of wildlife that inhabits the valley, including the endangered Chilean deer, the spirited wild horses, and numerous other fascinating creatures that contribute to the region’s ecological richness.
* Enhance your understanding of the land’s history and ecological significance as you listen to insightful commentary and engaging stories shared by your knowledgeable and experienced guide.
* Reach the breathtaking Chorrillo Los Salmones viewpoint after an exciting and invigorating 1.5-hour trek through the stunning landscape, providing a perfect opportunity to pause, reflect, and capture the memories of your adventure.

**Know Before You Go**

* **Duration:** The total duration of this captivating trek is approximately 4 hours, allowing ample time to fully experience the beauty and wonders of the Pingo Valley.
* **Recommended For:** This adventure is ideally suited for individuals of all ages and fitness levels, making it a perfect activity for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
* **Group:** To ensure a more intimate and personalized experience, the trek is conducted in a small group setting, allowing for greater interaction with your guide and fellow travelers.

**What You’ll Do**

Your Pingo Valley adventure will commence either at a conveniently pre-arranged meeting location or with a comfortable pickup service directly from your local accommodation. You will be able to explore one of the most remarkably untouched and pristine areas within the expansive boundaries of the majestic Torres del Paine National Park. This specific region, often overlooked by many visitors, holds a unique charm and offers a truly special experience for those who venture within.

You will then most likely begin your trek towards the Pingo River, following a relatively flat path characterized by modest ascents and descents, making it accessible to a wide range of fitness levels. As you continue onward, you may soon find yourself immersed in the depths of an ancient forest, where you will be rewarded with unparalleled views of Cerro Paine Grande (Big Paine Mountain) and the impressive Cordón Olguín mountain range.

As you progress even further into the forest, you are increasingly likely to witness the abundance of native flora that thrives within this protected environment. A key factor in this flourishing ecosystem is the area’s successful preservation from the devastating forest fires of 2012. As a result, the moss, lichen, and ferns have been allowed to flourish, creating a vibrant and lush green tapestry that blankets the valley floor and the forest’s understory.

Throughout your trek, it’s imperative to keep your eyes peeled for the elusive Huemul, a Chilean deer species that is currently facing the very real threat of extinction. You may also have the opportunity to hear the distinct calls of the wild “baguales,” the local term for the spirited and untamed horses that roam freely throughout the region. Your guide will likely share captivating stories about the land, its rich history, and its diverse wildlife, highlighting the significant historical and scientific value that the Pingo Valley holds. This area has been the site of numerous paleontological discoveries, including the unearthing of remarkable marine fossils that date back an astonishing 250 million years.

Approximately halfway through your hike, you may arrive at the stunning Chorrillo Los Salmones viewpoint, a location aptly named for the salmon that can be observed swimming downstream in the cascading waters. Here, you will have the opportunity to take in the awe-inspiring sight of a roaring waterfall, surrounded by the valley’s incredibly lush and vibrant vegetation. This is an ideal location to pause for a brief rest, enjoy a refreshing snack, and capture a few memorable photographs before continuing your hike. Your trek will likely conclude with a return journey to your original starting point, covering a total distance of approximately 6.8 miles (11 kilometers).

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