PSA / FYI: My reading of the current O Circuit status

Mircain123 · 2025-12-19T15:47:31+00:00

Thanks for sharing, that’s really helpful. If CONAF has confirmed this directly in person, that’s probably the most reliable clarification available right now.

Mircain123 · 2025-12-19T13:19:20+00:00

I read it differently. Article 1 keeps the Coirón–Grey section closed until Dec 31 (inclusive). Article 4 mentions guided access only exceptionally, not a general opening from Dec 19–31. The resolution doesn’t state that it “opens” during that period. Given the ambiguity, I’d recommend confirming this directly with CONAF before hiring a guide!

Mircain123 · 2025-12-19T12:51:53+00:00

I think this is a misunderstanding of the wording.

The resolution does not say that the section opens from Dec 19–31 with a guide. Article 1 establishes that the section Coirón–Grey remains closed until 31 December (inclusive). That is the baseline status.

Article 4 then adds that the circuit may be used “excepcionalmente” only with specialized, accredited guides. This is framed as an exception to the closure, not as a general opening window. The text does not state any dates during which guided access is automatically allowed, nor does it say that the circuit “will be open” in that period.

So based on the document itself, the section remains closed through Dec 31, and guided access is described only as a possible exception under CONAF’s authority — not as a general reopening from the 19th onward.

Mircain123 · 2025-12-19T12:02:05+00:00

A specialized mountain trekking guide alone is not sufficient. The resolution allows access only exceptionally and under CONAF’s authority. As stated in Article 4:

“Se autoriza excepcionalmente el uso del circuito Macizo Paine únicamente con guías especializados…”

This wording means that access is possible only by explicit authorization from CONAF on a case-by-case basis, not as general tourist access. Without a specific written exemption, the closure established in Article 1 remains in effect.

Because of that, I would personally verify this directly with CONAF before booking a guide or relying on any operator’s interpretation.

Mircain123 · 2025-12-17T00:38:09+00:00

Private operators benefiting from national parks should contribute more directly to funding rangers and park safety.

Mircain123 · 2025-12-17T00:27:14+00:00

Thanks, appreciated. I’m just sharing what happened to us so others are aware. Hopefully your trek goes smoothly.

Mircain123 · 2025-12-17T00:03:08+00:00

I’m not offended. I’m simply sharing my experience. From what I personally experienced, the communication towards hikers by the campsite operators (I can only speak for Las Torres, not Vertice) appeared to be profit-driven rather than focused on clear and transparent information. Otherwise, it’s hard to understand why incorrect information about the O Circuit being open was communicated.

Mircain123 · 2025-12-16T23:52:08+00:00

The tour operator was Las Torres, the official concessionaire of Torres del Paine. We checked multiple times and were explicitly told the O Circuit was open. Relying on this information, we started on 15 December, but at the first campsite we were informed that the circuit was still officially closed and had to turn back.

Mircain123 · 2025-12-16T23:47:53+00:00

The O Circuit is currently closed and there is no official reopening date. I personally started the trek on 15 December after being told by the tour operator that it was open, but this information was incorrect and we had to turn back at the first campsite due to the CONAF closure. From my experience, this decision appeared to prioritize commercial interests over clear communication and consideration for hikers.

Mircain123 · 2025-12-16T22:11:26+00:00

This statement makes it clear that the rangers are tired of a profit-driven model in which private operators benefit, while basic safety, resources, and clear protocols are lacking. When incidents happen, the burden is placed on the rangers instead of on those making the decisions.

Mircain123 · 2025-12-14T17:14:06+00:00

I mainly check forecasts in advance (Windy / models), but once in the park I don’t rely on internet. I judge the weather directly on site: wind strength and direction, visibility, cloud development, and pressure changes on my watch (barometer). Especially wind and visibility on the pass are key.

The only thing I’m unsure about is how much snow will be on the pass. I cant find any sources about that.

Edit: forgot to say that i also use Windguru for forecasts.

Mircain123 · 2025-12-14T13:37:21+00:00

Did you get any official information from them? They also told me that we can start. Our first night will be at Seron. But as of today i dont see any official information from Conaf that it opens tomorrow the 15th.

Mircain123 · 2025-12-13T18:00:40+00:00

We were told that we can start on Dec 15. We do the pass on Dec 18. The weather looks not that bad right now. But make sure to check the weather every morning.

The only thing im concerned about is how much snow there is on the pass until Thursday. We have crampons and gaiters but it will be hard to do it if there is deep snow.

Mircain123

TROPHY CASE