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Lake and glacier · Puerto Natales, Magalhães e Antártica Chilena
Lago Grey
A lake in the western part of the park where Glaciar Grey ends, which originates in the Campo de Hielo Patagónico Sur. Bluish icebergs float near the shore, and boats sail up to the glacier front.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Lago Grey
Lago Grey is in the western sector of Torres del Paine National Park, about 16 km long. At its northern end lies Glaciar Grey, an ice tongue that descends from the Campo de Hielo Patagónico Sur for almost 30 km and splits into two fronts upon reaching the water. The ice cliffs exceed 30 meters in height.
Chunks that break off the glacier cross the lake pushed by the wind and strand on the southern shore. A short walk from the Lago Grey ranger station crosses a suspension bridge and reaches a pebble beach with views of these icebergs and the glacier in the distance.
Boat tours depart from a pier on the southern shore and go up the lake to the glacier front, a trip of about three hours. There are also kayak departures and guided ice hikes. On the W Circuit, the trail from Paine Grande leads to viewpoints over the glacier.
The lake's water is milky-gray due to glacial sediment, which explains the name. The air near the ice is much colder than elsewhere in the park, even on sunny days.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to two hours to the iceberg beach; half a day with the boat trip to the glacier.
Best time
From October to April, when the boats operate. In summer the number of icebergs on the beach varies with wind and temperature, so the scene changes from day to day. Boat bookings fill up early in January and February.
How to get there
The Lago Grey sector is in the western part of the park, about 100 km from Puerto Natales via the internal roads, roughly a two-hour drive. Some regular buses go to the sector. On the W Circuit, the glacier is reached on foot from Paine Grande.
Tip
Book the boat trip well in advance and bring a heavy coat, hat, and gloves for the deck. On the beach, do not climb stranded icebergs: they can break apart and roll over without warning.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Lago Grey
How can you see Glaciar Grey up close?
By boat, on the cruises that depart from the south shore of Lago Grey, or on foot via the Circuito W trail that starts at Paine Grande. There are also guided ice walks with specialized guides.
Are there always icebergs in Lago Grey?
There usually are, but the number changes with the wind and temperature. On some days the beach is full of blocks; on others, almost empty.
Does the navigation on Lago Grey require a reservation?
Yes, especially from December to February when demand is high. Book in advance and confirm schedules.