Cerro Benitez Trek

Cerro Benitez Trek from Puerto Natales is a medium difficulty trek, ideal for people with a medium fitness level. The total walk is 10 kilometers in 3 hours, with moderate gradients. Although no prior trekking experience is required, it is recommended to have a good physical condition.

Condors on Cerro Benítez are most active during the early morning and late evening hours, when they take advantage of thermal currents to fly. During the trek, which includes a visit to the condor roosts, the chances of sighting them are high, especially on the route to the summit. The privileged location of the hill, with views of the Eberhard Fjord and the Señoret Canal, creates ideal conditions for observing these majestic birds in their natural habitat.

The cave paintings in the Dos Herraduras sector of Cerro Benítez are vestiges of the indigenous peoples of Patagonia, mainly Aonikenk (Tehuelche), who inhabited the area approximately 4,000 years ago. These cave paintings are well preserved thanks to their protected location on the rock walls of Chilean Patagonia. The archaeological sites within Estancia Ernesto Helmer, including the paintings and caves, are crucial evidence of prehistoric human presence in the region, offering a unique view into the history of Patagonia.

Cerro Benítez Trek is an excellent activity to do before visiting Torres del Paine, as it serves as acclimatization for the more demanding treks in the national park. Located just 25 km from Puerto Natales, this 3-hour medium-intensity trek is ideal for the first or last day of your itinerary in Chilean Patagonia.