Extreme Snowstorm Claims Five Lives on Torres del Paine’s ‘O’ Circuit

A violent and unexpected snowstorm in Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park has tragically resulted in the deaths of five international hikers. The victims—two Mexican nationals, two German nationals, and one Briton—were caught by the extreme weather while tackling the remote “O” Circuit trek, which loops around the Paine Massif. This incident unfolded abruptly on Monday, November 17th.

The tragedy occurred in the notoriously difficult Los Perros – Paso John Gardner sector. This section includes the highest point on the multi-day trek. The pass is already considered complicated in its natural condition, but it becomes "doubly challenging" during a blizzard.

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The region was struck by a sudden and extreme weather collapse, despite it being Patagonian spring. Conditions deteriorated far more severely than forecasts had indicated. Hikers were met with heavy snowfall and wind gusts reaching up to 193 kilometers per hour (120 mph)—force comparable to a Category 3 hurricane, a phenomenon sometimes referred to as “white wind.” Visibility fell to near zero, and the terrain quickly became impassable. With no cell service on the pass and no closure or warning from park authorities, hikers had no way to receive updated information or anticipate the severity of what was coming. The combination of severe cold, deep snow, and hurricane-force winds left many unable to reach nearby shelters.

When many hikers, including survivors, reached the bottom of the pass around midday, it became clear that several people had not returned. With no assistance coming from park staff at Los Perros campsite, hikers organized and launched their own search efforts. Five tourists volunteered to go back out as the first rescue team. No park rangers or government personnel arrived until the following morning. Tragically, all five missing hikers ultimately passed away. Two of them were found alive during the night—one was brought down to Los Perros, where fellow hikers attempted resuscitation, but she died at the campsite. The other could not be safely transported and was kept warm on the mountain, where she later passed away.

Torres del Paine National Park is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve that attracts over a quarter of a million visitors annually. While the area is globally renowned for its high winds and rapidly changing weather—often described as experiencing "four seasons in one day"—fatalities of this scale are rare.

Even during the popular season of November to April, trekkers must be prepared for everything from high winds to snow and ice. Proper layering, high-quality waterproof gear, and being adaptable are not just recommendations; they are critical safety requirements for this remote environment.

This tragic event prompts crucial discussions about backcountry safety. For the adventurous community, this highlights the necessity of situational awareness and conservative decision-making. Hikers must be prepared to turn back when conditions are dangerous, even if it disrupts an itinerary.

The Chilean prosecutor's office has opened an investigation to determine the exact details of the incident. In the meantime, the affected section of the "O" Circuit has been closed by authorities. Our thoughts are with the families, friends, and loved ones of the deceased.