Chile's National Forestry Corporation opened the Grey Glacier Skywalk inside Torres del Paine National Park on June 8 2026. The 1.2 kilometer steel-and-glass structure extends 18 meters above the lake surface providing unobstructed views of the glacier's 6 kilometer front. Construction cost 14 million USD and took 18 months to complete.
Timed-entry tickets cost 28 USD for adults and 14 USD for children and must be purchased online at least 48 hours in advance. Daily capacity is capped at 3 200 visitors to protect the surrounding ecosystem. Rangers conduct hourly educational talks in Spanish English German and French.
The new platform replaces older boat-only viewing that often faced cancellations due to high winds. Torres del Paine welcomed 312 000 visitors in 2025 with glacier viewing ranked as the top requested activity. The addition is expected to increase annual visitation by 18 percent.
What this means for you
Reserve timed tickets immediately for December 2026 and January 2027 slots as they are already 60 percent booked. Wear layered clothing and windproof jackets as temperatures average 4 degrees Celsius even in summer. Combine the visit with a stay at the nearby EcoCamp Patagonia for early morning access before day-trippers arrive.
Book the park's official shuttle from Puerto Natales rather than private transfers to guarantee entry during peak hours. Photographers should bring polarizing filters to reduce glare from the ice. Allow at least four hours on site including the 45-minute walk each way from the parking area.
Park authorities will evaluate extending operating hours into the evening for stargazing tours starting in the 2027 season.