Guide To EcoCamp Patagonia In Torres del Paine National Park
Located within Torres del Paine National Park, EcoCamp Patagonia is an award-winning sustainable dome hotel and the world’s first geodesic hotel. This unique experience invites hikers to a truly eco-friendly approach to hospitality while being immersed in nature.
While staying at EcoCamp, you can partake in various daily guided day hikes, embark on the famous W or O multi-day guided treks, go on a puma expiration, kayak in Grey Lake, and so much more. There are endless opportunities to get outside, explore Torres del Paine and learn about local fauna and flora.
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EcoCamp’s Sustainable Approach
EcoCamp is not simply one of those places that say they are eco-friendly to draw in tourists. They really do put an incredible amount of thought and effort into how they can help conserve the virgin wilderness of Torres del Paine National Park.
For starters, EcoCamp uses renewable energy sources such as solar panels and micro-hydro turbines. The energy created is then stored in a battery bank and is then distributed between their appliances (fridges, stoves, lights, etc). Hairdryers and electric razors are not allowed at EcoCamp, so please leave these items at home to conserve energy. This is because they run and use up more energy than all of EcoCamp.
At EcoCamp, detailed sustainability tours, called Eco Tours, are available daily to showcase their approach. Eco Tours provides guests with an opportunity to learn about their eco-friendly practices in-depth and understand how things work at EcoCamp. This knowledge can help guests implement new eco-friendly practices in their own homes.
The Domes
The domes are carefully crafted with thick insulated walls and harmonious exteriors to help keep the warmth in while simultaneously keeping the wind and elements out. They are also built on raised platforms along open walkways to help protect the undergrowth below where the dome systems are built and to let wildlife freely pass underneath. Along the pathways are outdoor solar lights that help brighten the paths without the use of electricity. These are subtle and do not disturb the wildlife.
There are different options for domes (skip here to read more about the styles of domes). The standard domes do not have any electricity or heating sources. These use a skylight window to create heat within, and warm blankets are provided. The more luxurious domes include electricity and heat, which are 40% obtained through solar panels and pellets and modern low-emission wood stoves. These domes also include private restrooms that use composting toilets (the communal restroom uses these toilets as well).
Lastly, the furniture in the domes is made from renewable materials such as pinewood and wicker. All the decorations, linens, curtains and rugs are made from natural fibres and sourced locally when possible.
The Restrooms
Everything at EcoCamp is planned with sustainability at the forefront, even their restroom facilities. All toilets at EcoCamp are composting, meaning they break down solid waste through biological decomposing. This is then used in the soil around EcoCamp to help grow flora. In addition, they do provide soaps and shampoos in the restroom, which are all made from biodegradable products that are sustainably and locally sourced.
If you plan on visiting EcoCamp and have never had the chance to use a composting toilet before, worry not! They look just like regular toilets, with the only visible difference being a lever on the side. You will need to flip this lever up with your foot to fill the bowl with water before using it and then flip it down to flush.
Types Of Domes At EcoCamp
There are four different options for accommodation domes available at EcoCamp. The price and some amenities may vary depending on the type you choose and when you visit.
Standard Domes
The standard domes are the first style domes that EcoCamp created. These domes do not have heating or electricity. So, if you choose this option, be sure to bring a portable charger for your electronics. All electronics and portable chargers can be charged in the community domes.
In the room, you will have your own safe box, a chair and a small table to put some of your belongings in. The domes are overly large (10m2/108ft2), but they are the perfect spot to rest up after a day of adventuring.
If you opt for the standard domes, you will have access to shared bathrooms. These bathrooms feature private showers (hot water provided by solar panels connected with thermosiphons), private stalls with composting toilets, and toiletries, including toilet paper, soap, shampoo, and conditioner. Additionally, there are drying racks available in each dome for drying your gear after hiking and towel drying racks (one towel per person provided by EcoCamp).
Personally, we stayed in the standard dome during our visit to EcoCamp. Knowing Patagonia’s wind strength and the potential for colder weather, we thought having no heat might be uncomfortable. But honestly, it all made for part of the experience!
Our nights of sleep were actually amazing! There is something cozy about a chilly face but a completely warm body due to the incredibly warm blankets. However, we understand that this type of sleeping may not be for everyone. If you prefer a heated sleeping environment, we would recommend trying one of the heated domes.
During the daytime, we made sure to keep our curtain open so the skylight would help heat up the dome, and the front desk was more than willing to give us an extra blanket for the particularly cold nights. The domes are constructed incredibly well, and no wind or breeze got in.
Here are a few photos from inside our standard dome.
Superior Domes
If you want to return to a warm and cozy dome after a tiring day of hiking and enjoy the luxury of your own half-restroom, then the superior domes are the perfect choice for you. These domes are more than twice the size (23m2/250ft2) of the standard ones.
Along with the standard dome features, these include a propane heater, composting toilet and electricity to charge your devices. However, as mentioned earlier, hairdryers are not permitted as they use up too much energy.
Suite Domes
The Suit Domes are the most luxurious domes available at EcoCamp. They offer everything that the Superior Dome has, plus a full private bathroom that has a hot water shower and composting toilet. In addition, they are equipped with a low-emission wood stove to provide warmth during your stay.
These beautiful spacious (28m2/300ft2) domes are perfect for couples, special celebrations or those looking to have a fully private bathroom.
Suit Dome Lofts
The suite dome lofts at EcoCamp are the largest domes available, at 37m2//398ft2. They offer all the amenities of suite domes plus an additional loft area that has an extra bed.
If you are travelling with your family or a large group of people and want to share accommodations, this suite is an excellent option!
Amenities Included At EcoCamp
EcoCamp Patagonia is a true gem nestled in the heart of this stunning wilderness. Beyond its mesmerizing natural surroundings, it offers an array of amenities that make it a haven for nature lovers seeking relaxation and comfort. Here’s a review of some of the amenities at EcoCamp:
1. welcome Dome
The welcome dome is the first place you will visit when you arrive at EcoCamp. Here, the front desk staff will tell you all about EcoCamp, how the facilities work, yoga times and more. They are there to help you have the best experience and are great people to sit and chat with. Towards the back of the welcome dome, there is a small shop where you can buy clothing, reusable souvenirs such as containers, water bottles and more, as well as some locally made products.
If find your dome is a little chilly, stop by the front desk and ask for a fire starter or extra blanket for your dome. They will happily send someone to your dome with whatever you need.
2. Exceptional Food & Wines
Dining at EcoCamp is a culinary journey in itself. Each morning, you can help yourself to the buffet-style breakfast. At your table, you’ll find a reusable lunch box and some high-energy snacks for your day’s adventure. There is a table set up where you can pack your own lunch for the day.
Before breakfast ends, you will be given a sheet with the day’s dinner choices, where you pick one appetizer, one main course, and one dessert, all made from ethically and locally sourced ingredients (when available). There is always a vegetarian option in each category, and they can accommodate allergies. At dinner, the exceptional wait staff provides fine-dining restaurant quality service, and wine is served. Savouring a glass of fine Chilean wine while relishing the flavours of Patagonian cuisine is an indulgence you won’t soon forget.
Every day from 4:00 to 6:00 PM, there is a tea and coffee hour available in the community dome. During this time, you can enjoy complimentary fresh coffee, tea options, and light snacks. If you prefer something stronger, there is also a full-service bar available for an additional cost.
3. Guided Treks And Adventures
One of the standout features of EcoCamp Patagonia is its commitment to providing guests with expertly guided treks and adventures. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a novice explorer, the skilled guides are ready to lead you on unforgettable journeys through the Patagonian wilderness. With their in-depth knowledge of the region, these guides are your window to the secrets and wonders of this stunning landscape.
There are seven different tours available at EcoCamp.
- Wildlife Safari: Customizable experience where you choose which activities you would like to do each day.
- Epic Patagonia: A multi-sport adventure that explores Torres del Paine by hiking, biking, kayaking and horseback riding.
- Puma Tracking: A wilderness adventure led by wildlife tracking professionals. Have the opportunity to see the pumas of Patagonia and various other wildlife.
- 7-Day W Trek: This is a 7-day adventure hiking the W Trek and includes a boat ride to Grey Glacier.
- 7-Day W Trek – Bush Variant: This 7-day W Trek starts with sailing from Puerto Natales to the Serrano and Balmaceda glaciers before getting dropped off at Puerto Toro dock to begin the W trek.
- 5-Day W Trek: The 5-Day W Trek is a shorter version of the well-known W Trek. It excludes the Los Cuernos portion of the trek.
- 9-Day Paine Circuit: The 9-Day Paine Circuit is also known as the O Trek. It is the ultimate hiking experience in Patagonia, offering a complete hike around Paine Massif.
My husband and I went to EcoCamp in September 2023, shortly after they opened for the season. Unfortunately, the winter conditions didn’t allow us to choose any of the W trek options, so we decided to go with the Wildlife Safari. The best thing about this option was that we got to pick from an easy, moderate, or difficult activity each day, which made it perfect for all hiking experience levels.
While we did not get to complete the full W, we did hike 1/2 of the W through the Wildlife Safari option (unfortunately, French Valley was not open at the time, which is the other half of the W trek). Along with hiking Mirador Las Torres and Los Cuernos, we also got to complete the Lazo Weber Hike, which is not part of the W trek and is only accessible through EcoCamp and one other hotel in Torres del Paine National Park. To learn more about the types of tours and activities offered at EcoCamp, click here.
4. Community Domes
The community domes provide a cozy, social environment for guests to relax, hang out, and enjoy meals. Whether you’re sipping a hot drink and chatting with fellow hikers, unwinding with a good book or simply charging your electronic devices, these domes offer the perfect atmosphere.
Within the community domes, you can find fireplaces to warm up next to, the dining area where you have breakfast, dinner, coffee break, a full-service bar and where your debriefing takes place each evening (this is when you pick which hikes you want to go on).
5. Free daily Yoga Classes
For those looking to harmonize their mind and body amidst the tranquillity of Patagonia, EcoCamp offers complimentary yoga classes. These sessions allow guests to stretch, meditate, and find inner peace. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a beginner, these classes offer a wonderful opportunity for self-care.
Daily free yoga classes are available at the yoga dome twice a day. One in the morning and the other in the evening before dinner. We fully took advantage of the free yoga every day after we returned from the trails. It was a perfect way to help our bodies recover after a long day of hiking!
6. Massage Domes
After a long day of trekking through Patagonia’s captivating landscapes, there’s no better way to unwind than with a soothing massage. EcoCamp Patagonia pampers its guests with rejuvenating massage services that ease tired muscles and invigorate the body. It’s the perfect way to re-energize for the next day’s adventures.
Massages available at EcoCamp range from relaxing to deep tissue. There is limited availability, so be sure to check with the front desk in advance to ensure you get in.
EcoCamp Patagonia is not just a base for outdoor adventures; it’s a retreat that offers a well-rounded experience. The combination of massages, yoga, community domes, and gourmet dining with wine elevates your stay from mere accommodation to a holistic Patagonian immersion. Whether you’re hiking, birdwatching, or simply taking in the breathtaking landscapes, these amenities add a touch of luxury and relaxation to your Patagonian escape, making EcoCamp a destination like no other.
Staff & Hospitality At EcoCamp
When it comes to embarking on an adventure in beautiful Torres del Paine, the quality of your trekking guide can make or break your experience. Fortunately, our recent journey to Patagonia was nothing short of amazing, thanks in large part to the exceptional team of guides at EcoCamp.
Each day, you will get to go on either a hike or an adventure of your choosing, and a guide will be assigned to your group. Over the five days we were at EcoCamp, we were lucky enough to have Paola, Armando, Flo and Dani as trekking guides. We were quite impressed by their expertise and dedication to making the trails a fun and safe experience for hikers of all levels.
But it wasn’t just their adaptability to changing weather conditions that impressed us. Paola, Armando, Flo, and Dani have extensive knowledge of the region’s history, flora, and fauna, which added a rich layer of depth to our treks. They pointed out unique and indigenous plants, identified rare bird species and shared stories about local wildlife. Their passion for the environment was infectious, and we left each hike with a newfound appreciation for Patagonia’s ecological diversity.
Here is a photo of us on our last hike in Patagonia with our amazing trekking guide, Paola. After we completed the Lazo Weber hike, Paola surprised us with Patagonia beer and snacks to mark our last day at EcoCamp and celebrate the end of our honeymoon. It was a perfect way to end our trip!
Along with incredible trekking guides, EcoCamp has many staff that work hard to help make your stay an unforgettable experience. From the front desk to wait staff, bartenders, yoga instructors, chefs and cleaning staff, everyone treats you as though you are family and not just a hotel guest. If something is wrong, you need help, or maybe you have an allergy that the kitchen needs to know about, just mention it to any of the incredible staff, and they will ensure you are taken care of.
Trails We Hiked In Torres del Paine
• Mirador Las Torres (Base Torres)
• Lazo Weber
• Los Cuernos Trek
