Camp at Lago Sofia

Lago Sofia is a small lake just about 20 minutes north of Puerto Natales off Route 9 on Y-280. The lake is surrounded by mountains and a horse farm fills the valley where you're able to camp. If you're heading into Torres Del Paine from Puerto Natales, this spot is awesome for camping at if you got a late start or want to do something relaxing in the area before heading into the park to trek.

Driving from Puerto Natales, you'll first pass a turn for Y-290 toward the Milodon Caves. Continue on Route 9 and take your next left onto Y-280. You'll then drive down a dirt road for a kilometer or two which will put you at the beach of the lake. Keep in mind that the horse farm to the right side is private property. Camping is allowed on the lake shore to the left and off the dirt road (unnamed) that veers left along the hillside just before the beach. The dirt road along the hillside is not recommend to drive on without 4WD as it's often muddy and full of deep ruts.

On the lake shore, there are some large boulders where most people with cars camp as it is a flat, sandy area. You can also use the boulders to shield wind around your camp, which is a huge perk. Once you're set up for the night, sit back and enjoy a meal or take a walk along the dirt road that runs along the hillside by the lake (left side if you're facing the lake).

Lago Sofia is a local spot that any visitor to Torres Del Paine would likely miss out on without some advice from a native. Our friends at Erratic Rock Hostel in Puerto Natales gave us the tip to camp here before beginning our hiking, and kindly suggested bringing trash bags to cart out trash that was previously left behind. Sadly, there is trash along the dirt road and in the camping areas. If you camp here, it'd be awesome if you could bring even just one bag to help clean up the area you stay in. Leave this beautiful place better than you found it and keep Patagonia wild.