A sudden blizzard in Torres del Paine national reserve killed five foreign tourists — two Mexicans, two Germans and a British national — after they were caught off guard while hiking. Four others were rescued, though their conditions and nationalities have not been released. Soldiers, police and park rangers took part in search-and-rescue efforts as officials warned that sleet and strong winds can quickly reduce visibility. President Gabriel Boric expressed condolences, calling the event a "tragedy."
Patagonian Blizzard in Torres del Paine Kills Five Foreign Tourists
A sudden blizzard in Torres del Paine national reserve killed five foreign tourists — two Mexicans, two Germans and a British national — after they were caught off guard while hiking. Four others were rescued, though their conditions and nationalities have not been released. Soldiers, police and park rangers took part in search-and-rescue efforts as officials warned that sleet and strong winds can quickly reduce visibility. President Gabriel Boric expressed condolences, calling the event a "tragedy."
02:04 AM, 11/19/2025Society
A sudden blizzard in the Patagonian Torres del Paine national reserve claimed the lives of five foreign tourists on Monday, authorities said. The victims were identified as two Mexicans, two Germans and a British national. Four other visitors were rescued and taken to safety; their nationalities and medical conditions have not been disclosed.
The group was caught off guard while exploring the park, famed for its towering granite peaks, glaciers and abundant wildlife. Torres del Paine lies roughly 2,800 kilometers (about 1,740 miles) south of Chile's capital, Santiago.
Search and response
Regional official Jose Antonio Ruiz initially reported two dead and seven missing before updating the toll to five later the same day. Soldiers and police joined park rangers in search-and-rescue operations across the reserve.
Weather and safety concerns
The national forestry body, Conaf, reported that more than 367,000 tourists visited the reserve and its trails in 2024, underscoring the park's popularity and the risks posed by rapidly changing Patagonian weather. Juan Carlos Andrades of the Senapred emergency response unit warned that sleet and strong winds can dramatically reduce visibility and increase the danger for hikers who stray from marked trails.
Chilean President Gabriel Boric offered his condolences on X, calling the incident a "tragedy" and extending sympathy to the families and loved ones of those who died.
Authorities continue to assess conditions in the park and review safety measures for visitors. Further updates are expected as rescuers complete their work and officials confirm the identities and conditions of those involved.