Lake Pehoé
A breathtaking Patagonian gem, Lake Pehoé captivates with its vibrant turquoise waters and dramatic mountain vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Lake Pehoé
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking Patagonian gem, Lake Pehoé captivates with its vibrant turquoise waters and dramatic mountain vistas.
"Wow, the most beautiful turquoise water I have ever seen! This seems like a dream & a must visit."
🎯 Don't Miss Mirador Pehoé
A hidden gem hike (3.5km from Paine Grande) with amazing views, often less crowded than other spots.
🌅 Chase the Golden Hour
Sunrise and sunset offer the most spectacular light for photographing the lake's turquoise waters.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mirador Pehoé
Short hike from Camping Paine Grande
An often-overlooked viewpoint offering breathtaking turquoise waters and reflections of the Paine Massif.
Sunrise and Sunset Spectacle
Various viewpoints around the lake
Witness the sky ignite with color, casting a magical glow on the vibrant blue waters and dramatic mountain backdrop.
Hostería Pehoé
Small island in Lake Pehoé
An iconic hotel offering unparalleled views of the lake and the Cuernos del Paine from its unique island location.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Peak Views
Navigating Torres del Paine
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Don't Miss Mirador Pehoé
A hidden gem hike (3.5km from Paine Grande) with amazing views, often less crowded than other spots.
🌅 Chase the Golden Hour
Sunrise and sunset offer the most spectacular light for photographing the lake's turquoise waters. 
🚗 Plan Your Park Access
Getting to Lake Pehoé involves navigating Torres del Paine; consider shuttle buses or tours.
📸 Capture the Turquoise
The vibrant blue glacial water is a photographer's dream, especially with mountain reflections.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Don't Miss Mirador Pehoé
A hidden gem hike (3.5km from Paine Grande) with amazing views, often less crowded than other spots.
🌅 Chase the Golden Hour
Sunrise and sunset offer the most spectacular light for photographing the lake's turquoise waters.
🚗 Plan Your Park Access
Getting to Lake Pehoé involves navigating Torres del Paine; consider shuttle buses or tours.
📸 Capture the Turquoise
The vibrant blue glacial water is a photographer's dream, especially with mountain reflections.
🏨 Book Island Stays Early
Hostería Pehoé offers incredible views but books up fast; plan well in advance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about Lake Pehoé's stunning turquoise waters and breathtaking mountain reflections, calling it a dream-like and must-visit spot. While some find it less popular than other viewpoints, its beauty is undeniable, offering magical camping and photography opportunities.
"You must go to mirador pehoe, an hidden gem !!! It’s around 3,5km from camping paine grande (leave your bags there). Easy hike and AMAZING view at the end. I don’t understand why it’s not popular, it’s was one of our favorite viewpoint in all our 5 days in this park."
Arianne G
"“PEHOE” at Torres Del Paine (TDP). Absolutely stunning views & turquoise water with snow mountains reflecting its beauty on the water surface. This seems like a dream & a must visit."
Raj Patel (The Tampa Realtor)
"Wow, the most beautiful turquoise water I have ever seen!
You should definately pass by, or go with the tour to watch the colours of this lake!"
Marina Brouskou
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Lake Pehoé, you'll typically need to travel to Torres del Paine National Park from Puerto Natales. This often involves taking a bus to the park entrance, followed by internal park transport like shuttle buses or ferries. Some visitors opt for guided tours that include transportation to key viewpoints like Lake Pehoé.
While you can drive within Torres del Paine National Park, direct access to specific viewpoints like Lake Pehoé might require parking and a short walk or using park shuttles. Roads within the park can be unpaved and challenging, so check current conditions.
Yes, a ferry service operates across Lake Pehoé, connecting areas like Pudeto to Paine Grande. This is a common way to access trailheads and viewpoints, including those near Mirador Pehoé.
Within the park, you can utilize shuttle buses that connect major points of interest, including some near Lake Pehoé. For those hiking, walking is the primary mode of transport between trail sections.
Yes, it's realistic to visit Lake Pehoé as part of a day trip from Puerto Natales, but it will be a long day. You'll need to factor in bus travel time to and from the park, plus time spent at the lake and other viewpoints.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, an entrance fee is required to access Torres del Paine National Park. It's highly recommended to purchase your park tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure entry and avoid queues.
Lake Pehoé is located within Torres del Paine National Park, which has specific opening and closing hours. These can vary by season, so it's best to check the official CONAF (National Forest Corporation) website for the most up-to-date information.
While there isn't a specific pass just for Lake Pehoé, your Torres del Paine National Park entrance ticket grants access to all areas within the park, including the lake and its viewpoints.
Yes, there are campsites located around Lake Pehoé, offering a magical experience with mountain backdrops. Booking campsites in advance is essential, especially during the summer months.
Mirador Pehoé is a viewpoint within Torres del Paine National Park, and there is no separate fee to access it beyond your park entrance ticket. The hike to the mirador is generally considered easy.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography at Lake Pehoé are during sunrise and sunset. The golden hour light creates stunning reflections on the turquoise water and illuminates the Paine Massif beautifully.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of the Cuernos del Paine. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions during sunrise/sunset and a polarizing filter to enhance the water's color.
Mirador Pehoé is a highly recommended spot for photography, offering unique perspectives. The area around Hostería Pehoé also provides iconic views. Many pull-offs along the park roads offer opportunities for stunning shots.
The striking turquoise color of Lake Pehoé is due to glacial silt. As glaciers melt, they carry fine rock particles (silt) into the lake, which reflect sunlight and give the water its distinctive vibrant hue.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and the natural environment. Always check the latest regulations for Torres del Paine National Park before flying a drone.
🍽️ 🏨 Accommodation & Dining
For an unforgettable experience, consider staying at Hostería Pehoé, located on a small island in the lake, offering unparalleled views. There are also campsites like Camping Pehoé and Camping Paine Grande nearby.
Dining options are limited directly at Lake Pehoé. Hostería Pehoé offers meals for guests. For other options, you might need to travel to nearby areas within Torres del Paine or pack your own food.
Hostería Pehoé is considered one of the more affordable stays within the park, with rooms typically ranging from $150–$250 per night, depending on the season.
Yes, Camping Pehoé is a popular option for those wanting to stay close to the lake, offering stunning mountain backdrops. It's advisable to book your spot well in advance.
If camping, bring non-perishable food items, cooking supplies, and plenty of water. Options for purchasing food within the park are scarce and can be expensive.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning your visit, focus on viewpoints that don't require extensive hiking. Many of the pull-offs along the park roads offer incredible views without much walking. Ensure you have appropriate clothing for unpredictable Patagonian weather, as conditions can change rapidly.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2 Don't miss Mirador Pehoé for unique perspectives and consider the area around Hostería Pehoé for classic postcard views. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the landscape and a tripod for those crucial low-light shots. A polarizing filter can help enhance the water's vibrant color and reduce glare. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as clouds can add dramatic flair to your photos, but also be ready for clear skies that showcase the intense blue of the lake.
🚶 Hikers & Trekkers
For those undertaking longer treks like the W or O circuits, Lake Pehoé will likely be a scenic passage. Campsites like Camping Paine Grande are situated nearby, offering convenient overnight stays for trekkers. Remember to pack appropriately for varying terrain and weather, and always check trail conditions before setting out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Turquoise Waters
The clarity of the water allows these colors to be seen in their full glory, especially when the sun hits it just right. This natural phenomenon makes Lake Pehoé a photographer's paradise. The contrast between the vivid water and the dramatic, often snow-capped peaks of the Paine Massif is simply breathtaking. Seeing this color in person is often described as surreal and unforgettable, a true testament to the raw beauty of Patagonia.
To truly appreciate the color, visiting during daylight hours is essential. While the lake is beautiful in any light, the intensity of the turquoise is most pronounced under direct sunlight. Consider visiting on a clear day for the most impactful visual experience.
Mirador Pehoé: A Local's Favorite
This viewpoint offers a unique perspective of Lake Pehoé, showcasing its stunning turquoise waters against the backdrop of the majestic Paine Massif. The relative lack of crowds here allows for a more peaceful and immersive experience, letting you truly soak in the Patagonian grandeur.
If you're looking for a less-trodden path with a spectacular payoff, make sure to include Mirador Pehoé in your itinerary. It's a perfect example of how venturing slightly off the beaten path can lead to some of the most memorable moments of your trip.
The Iconic Hostería Pehoé
+1While not a luxury lodge, Hostería Pehoé provides a comfortable and memorable experience, allowing guests to wake up to breathtaking vistas right outside their window. It's a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers alike, drawn by the promise of stunning sunrises and sunsets reflected on the water.
+1Due to its prime location and popularity, booking well in advance is crucial, especially if you plan to visit during the peak tourist season. While it's one of the more affordable options within the park, its desirability means rooms can be limited.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit