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Lake · Puerto Natales, Magalhães e Antártica Chilena
Lago Pehoé
A turquoise-water lake in the center of the park, with the Cuernos del Paine in the background. In Pudeto the catamaran departs that crosses the lake to the Paine Grande sector.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Lago Pehoé
Lago Pehoé occupies the center of Torres del Paine National Park and receives the waters of the Rio Paine, which arrive via Salto Grande. The turquoise color comes from fine sediment carried by the meltwater, which reflects light. On the northern shore rise the Cuernos del Paine and Paine Grande, the highest peak of the massif.
Along the road that skirts the lake there are viewpoints with parking, and a small island with buildings on the southern shore appears in many park photos. In the Pudeto sector is the pier for the catamaran that crosses Pehoé to Paine Grande, a link between the central and western sections of the W Circuit.
The boat crossing takes about half an hour and operates during the visiting season, with departures that vary by month. For those not hiking, a round-trip on the same boat already shows the lake from the water, with the Cuernos ahead.
The fields around the lake burned in past decades and show dead trunks among vegetation that is regrowing. Fires are prohibited throughout the park, including the use of camp stoves outside designated areas.
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 hour at the viewpoints; about two hours including the round-trip catamaran ride.
Best time
From October to April, when the catamaran operates. Early in the morning the water sometimes lies still and mirrors the peaks; in the afternoon the wind usually ripples the lake.
How to get there
The park's internal road passes the lake viewpoints and reaches Pudeto, about 100 km from Puerto Natales. Regular buses stop in Pudeto, from where the catamaran departs.
Tip
Check catamaran schedules upon arriving in Pudeto and buy your ticket in advance during high season. If driving, stop at the roadside viewpoints before reaching the pier.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Lago Pehoé
Why is the water of Lago Pehoé so colorful?
Meltwater carries fine rock particles into the lake. They remain suspended in the water and reflect light in turquoise tones.
How long is the Lago Pehoé catamaran ride?
About half an hour between Pudeto and Paine Grande. Schedules vary throughout the season; check before you go.
Do you need to hike to see Lago Pehoé?
No. The viewpoints are next to the park's internal road and the Pudeto stop is on the lakeshore.