The sudden snowstorm in Torres del Paine National Park killed five tourists and left four others, previously reported missing, found alive. Officials identified the deceased as two Mexicans, two Germans and one Briton, and are working to recover the bodies. Harsh weather — including gusts up to 190 km/h — has complicated rescue efforts and prompted temporary park closures.
Sudden Snowstorm in Chile’s Torres del Paine Kills Five Tourists; Four Missing Found Alive
The sudden snowstorm in Torres del Paine National Park killed five tourists and left four others, previously reported missing, found alive. Officials identified the deceased as two Mexicans, two Germans and one Briton, and are working to recover the bodies. Harsh weather — including gusts up to 190 km/h — has complicated rescue efforts and prompted temporary park closures.
12:27 PM, 11/19/2025Society
At least five tourists died after a sudden snowstorm struck Torres del Paine National Park in southern Chilean Patagonia, officials said. Four others who had been reported missing were later located alive. The deceased include two Mexican nationals, two Germans and one British citizen, according to José Ruiz Pivcevic, the presidential delegate for Chile’s Magallanes region. Authorities are working to recover the bodies.
President Gabriel Boric offered condolences to the families and wrote on X:
“Know that you have the full support and collaboration of Chilean authorities and institutions during these difficult times.”
About two dozen first responders, including national police and army teams, were deployed to assist with search and recovery, but operations have been hampered by severe weather. In addition to heavy snowfall, officials reported gusts reaching about 190 kilometres per hour (roughly 118 mph).
Location and circumstances
Local officials said the group became lost near the Los Perros camp, an area reachable only after a four- to five-hour trek from the nearest point accessible by vehicle. Torres del Paine mayor Anahí Cárdenas said the tourists were not accompanied by a guide and described the mountain circuit as "complex," noting extreme weather was likely a major factor in the fatalities.
Park context and response
Torres del Paine National Park is renowned for its glaciers, turquoise lakes, towering granite peaks and diverse wildlife, and is a popular destination for international trekkers. UNESCO recognizes the park as a biosphere reserve for its conservation and sustainability value. Authorities have temporarily closed portions of the park while recovery operations continue and have urged visitors to heed weather warnings and consider guided routes in hazardous conditions.
Chile's National Forest Corporation said it received the first missing-person report on Monday and that one person was evacuated that same day. The UK Foreign Office has confirmed it is in contact with local authorities regarding the incident.