Ultra Paine isn’t just a race… it’s an epic adventure in one of the wildest and most beautiful places on the planet: Torres del Paine National Park! But before you imagine yourself crossing the finish line with your arms raised and the glaciers at your back, there’s one fundamental question:
How far should you run?
Don’t worry, here’s an easy (and fun) guide to help you choose the perfect category based on your experience, your desire… and your level of runner madness.
🟡 7K – “My First Time (And I Want to Survive)”
If you’ve never run a race before, if the concept of “trail” sounds like something out of a Western movie, or if you simply want to experience it without suffering, this is the distance for you.
The good:
- Spectacular scenery without having to train like Rocky Balboa.
- Ideal for families, companions, or if you’re more into trekking than trail running.
- It gives you bragging rights: “I ran in Patagonia” sounds epic… even if it was only 7 kilometers!
Recommendations:
- You don’t need poles, but you do need good trail running shoes.
- Bring a windbreaker and be prepared for sun, wind, rain, and UFOs (okay, not so much the last one… or maybe it is).
🔵 14K – “I have some experience and a lot of desire”
Have you run a 10K before? Do you run hills on the weekends? Does your running playlist include songs like Eye of the Tiger? Then this one’s for you.
The good:
- Technical sections mixed with landscapes that look like they came straight from a screensaver.
- Enough distance to feel like a true trail runner.
Recommendations:
- Bring hydration with you, because it’s already getting really sweaty here.
- If you trained with some incline, you’ll be thankful for it on race day.
🟠 21K – “The Epic Middle Distance”
If you’ve already run an urban half marathon and now want something wilder, more unpredictable, and more epic, the Ultra Paine 21K is perfect.
The good:
- It’s challenging, but not crazy.
- You’ll cross rivers, forests, climb hills that make you question your life… and views that give it back to you.
- Ideal for those who want a test between a gentle trail and a true ultra.
Recommendations:
- Practice uphill and downhill exercises. Your thighs will thank you!
- Shoes with good grip and layered clothing: a must.
🔴 35K – “I’m not playing anymore, I’m serious”
If this is your distance, you’ve probably done other mountain races, or maybe a marathon. This route is a perfect blend of physical challenge, connection with nature, and a healthy dose of “what am I doing here?!”
The good:
- It’s the exact point where trail becomes ultra… without going overboard.
- Views from another planet. Seriously. Beauty hurts.
Recommendations:
- Highly recommended walking sticks.
- Bring snacks, a hydration system, a windbreaker, and a good sense of humor for when the wind speaks to you.
⚫ 50K – “Trail runner in beast mode”
If you know what an energy gel is, if you use the word “ultra” with ease, and if your group of friends thinks you’re a little crazy… then the 50K is for you.
The good:
- A transformative experience. You won’t just run, you’ll challenge yourself.
- Landscapes so beautiful that sometimes you will forget you are suffering.
- You’ll walk, you’ll run, you’ll laugh, you’ll get excited. Sometimes all at the same time.
Recommendations:
- Train hard, seriously. This is no walk in the park.
- Bring all the required equipment: backpack, jacket, food, headlamp, thermal blanket, gloves, mental GPS.
🔥 80K – “Are you okay, buddy?”
If your answer to “why are you doing this?” is a poem about connection with nature, inner challenge, and passion for the mountains… this is the place for you. The 80K isn’t run; it’s conquered.
The good:
- It’s a personal journey through one of the most breathtaking settings on the planet.
- You will be part of a select group of brave people who complete this journey.
- You’ll be telling it for the rest of your life… even if your legs won’t let you in the days that follow.
Recommendations:
- Don’t improvise: train for long distances, do similar routes, and know your limits.
- Bring ALL the required equipment, and more if you can.
Prepare your mind: this distance tests more than just your body.
🧭 Now what? Do you know which one is for you?
Ultra Paine awaits you. And so will we, with a hot mate and everything taken care of so you can just worry about running and enjoying yourself.
🎒 Bonus: What does the program with our agency include?
- Accommodation in Puerto Natales, with the option to extend your adventure.
- Transfers to the event, kit management, and assistance at all times.
- Activities for companions, because no one is left out.
- Personalized advice based on your level and goal.
