Puerto Natales is an excellent place to relax and enjoy a hot cup of tea before and after you set out enjoy the incredible natural beauty of this region. The Torres del Paine National Park nearby offers unlimited natural activities and different ways to interact with the surrounding natural world. Torres del Paine means "towers of blue," paine being the indigenous word for blue. It refers to the three immense towers of granite rock carved out by ancient glaciers and left standing alone in the Patagonian sky. The stunning landscape of Patagonia is known around the world for its unearthly beauty and its interesting and unique wildlife. Penguins toddle around on blue ice while falcons and condors swoop and soar in the achingly blue skies. Guanacos, more delicate relatives of the llama, graze in herds, followed by stealthy pumas. Rheas, like small ostriches, also populate the wide grasslands. There are endless trails to hike, caves to explore, and unearthly blue glaciers and lakes. It is currently being lobbied for UNESCO World Heritage designation. Hailed as one of the most incredible, beautiful places on earth, Torres del Paine is more than worth the visit. Winter, spring, summer, or fall all offer different views and adventures, distinct but magnificent. Then come back to the hostel for a hot cup of tea or coffee and cuddle up next to the fire.