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Frequently Asked Questions

 What’s the food like?

All meals are provided and the food is simple but good. The breakfasts are always big and with both lunch and dinner there is soup and a main dish. Vegetarian diets are well catered for, and if you let us know about any other special requirements we’ll do our best to sort meals for you.

Traveling in the Park and beyond

In your free time between work periods there will be plenty of opportunities to explore this amazing area further, and as a volunteer for AMA you’ll be able to sleep and eat in the refugios of ‘Fantástico Sur’ for free. There are many different activities available in the Park; you’ll be able to trek the ´W’ route or other sections of the Park, go rock climbing or try ice climbing on Glacier Grey, take part in a kayak trip, go horse riding…these are just a few examples of possible ways to make the most of your free days in the Park!

There are transfer buses each day to Puerto Natales, the nearest town to Torres del Paine National Park. It takes about 2 ½ hours to get here, and once here there are various options for accommodation and activities. One great place to stay is the Erratic Rock hostel, whose managers have helped AMA Torres del Paine to publicise our projects for volunteers. There’s plenty to do here: walks along the coast or up the hill Dorotea will give wonderful views of Paine Grande and the surrounding mountains. You could visit the MilodonCave, hire bikes and explore the local countryside, take one of the many boat trips out to the nearby glaciers, or simply enjoy the atmosphere of this lively little town. And for more adventures, in Puerto Natales you’re perfectly based in the heart of Patagonia to travel further.

Where can I find out more about Torres del Paine National Park and Patagonia?

There’s a vast amount of information about the National Park and about Patagonia on the Internet. Some useful websites we’ve found are listed below, along with a few good books. However, nothing’s as good as coming here for real!

What’s the weather like?

Torres del Paine can experience almost every kind of weather in the space of one day, and any weather forecast should be used with caution because each day is very unpredictable. It’s always a good idea to be prepared for blazing sunshine, continuous rain, possible snow showers and always, always very strong winds. No matter what the weather looks like first thing in the morning, it’s very likely to change dramatically before nightfall.

The volunteer programs will run from September to May, so you’ll be working through spring, summer or the autumn, though winter conditions are always possible.  

What can I expect from the language?

Spanish here is spoken very rapidly, so it takes some time to get accustomed to the speed and also the many slang words that can complicate understanding even more. However, everyone is very patient and you will have plenty of time and opportunity to practice!

What money will I need?

You probably won’t need a huge amount of money during your time here but it’s worth knowing that there are no cash machines here at the hosteria and refugio, though there are three in Puerto Natales and several in Punta Arenas. Though credit and debit cards are accepted here, it’s always useful to have cash with you.

 What can I buy when I’m at the Hosteria?

There are two shops that sell various snacks and drinks, as well as the usual tourist necessities such as postcards and guidebooks. For toiletries etc., you’ll need to go to Puerto Natales, so it’s worth making sure that you have a sufficient amount to get you through at least the first couple of weeks or so.

How can I contact friends and family back home?

Phone calls are possible but from the landline here international calls will be very expensive. Internet access is available for all volunteers once a week, and it’s also possible to send and receive post.

Will I be able to use my cell phone?

No, there’s no signal here.