Torres Del Paine W Trek
Hut to Hut Trekking Tours
7 Days, 6 Nights 45MI / 72KM
Trip Highlights
Torres del Paine National Park is one of the most pristine and remote wilderness areas in the world. The W-Trek is the most iconic trekking route in the Park, and it is for great reason! The dramatic granite towers and spires will draw you in, and in we shall go! The W-trek will take you along the shores of stunning glacial lakes filled with electric blue icebergs. We encounter sheer rock spires as tall as the sky and the magnificent, Southern Patagonian ice cap. Additionally, you not only get to view these special landscapes, but will also have the opportunity to explore them by taking a hike onto Grey Glacier and on a kayak tour around the icebergs in Grey Lake!
The beauty of this raw and dramatic landscape will help you understand why the park is designated a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Wildland Trekking is an active partner of the Torres del Paine Legacy Fund, which helps educate local children, is creating a local recycling program, conducts W-trail restoration and much more. Keep your cameras ready and get ready for an unforgettable hiking vacation!
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Iconic Patagonia Trek
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Glacier Hike
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Glacial Lake Kayaking
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Towering Granite Spires
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Stunning Landscapes
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Comfortable Backcountry Lodges or Camping
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Amazing Natural & Cultural History
Book This Trip
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Trip Details
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Trip Type
Hut to Hut Trekking Tours -
Trip Length
7 Days, 6 Nights -
Daily Hiking Distance
Up to 15 mi -
Group Size
4-12 Guests
- day by day itinerary
- logistical and travel information
- gear and clothing lists and more
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Is This Trip Right For me?
This trip earns its Level 4 Difficulty rating due to the first day’s trekking length of 12 miles and the third day’s trekking length of 13-15 miles. Elevation gains/losses on this trip are moderate to strenuous (up to 3,180 feet) which makes for some challenging days. Aside from the first & third day the hiking distances are moderate.
Difficulty Level
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Solitude Level
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Trip Itinerary
Please Note: We always do everything in our power to follow the set itinerary, however occasionally trips are subject to itinerary changes based on a variety of circumstances, including but not limited to: extreme weather, availability of refugios, political or bureaucratic obstacles, earthquakes, fires, flooding and more. Also, the kayaking and glacier hiking days on this trip are weather-dependent and not guaranteed; we will substitute alternate activities in the case kayaking and/or glacier hiking are not possible. Normal terms and conditions apply to trips with itinerary changes.
Day 1
On this Patagonia hiking tour, we will pick you up at the airport in Puerto Natales, Chile. Depending on what time you arrive, you’ll have time to rest, explore the town, or enjoy the views of the fjord before we meet for our orientation where we will review our itinerary, issue gear, and get to know one another. We will then head into town for our first delicious Patagonian meal and toast to the adventure that lies ahead!
Important Note: When you enter Chile, you will be issued a document called a PDI (tourism card). Please do NOT throw this away. You will need it to exit the country and nearly every lodge we stay in also asks for a copy.
Day 2
Hiking Mileage: 13.7 miles (22 km)
Elevation Gain: 3181 feet (970 m)
Elevation Loss: 3181 feet (970 m)
Trekking Duration: 9-10 hours
This morning, we will wake up early and drive to Torres Del Paine National Park. Let the adventure begin! Along the way, we may be fortunate enough to view guanacos, rhea, and Andean condors. We will begin our challenging hike by trekking up the Ascencio valley with views of the river, lakes, and views of Las Torres. We will come to Refugio Chileno and have a break for water and snacks. We then continue through a beautiful forest of native Lenga (Beech) trees and then keep hiking until we reach a glacial moraine (a ridge made from earth pushed by the glacier). From the moraine, we trek 1 more hour until we reach the most amazing view of the Torres del Paine rock towers! The views of the granite towers and glacial lake are simply breathtaking. We will then head back to our refugio for dinner and accommodation for the night.
Day 3
Hiking Mileage: 8 miles (13 km)
Elevation Gain: 750 feet (229 m)
Elevation Loss: 900 feet (274 m)
Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours
After breakfast at our refugio, we will pack our gear and begin our trek along Lake Nordenskjold (named after a Swedish geologist who contributed significantly to the study of Glaciology). Additionally, we will have great views of the hanging glaciers above on Mt. Almirante Nieto. We will have lunch and continue to trek until we reach our refugio. Upon arrival, we will freshen up and have free time until dinner is served.
Day 4
Hiking Mileage: 13-15 miles (21-24 km)
Elevation Gain: up to 2200 feet (671 m)
Elevation Loss: up to 2350 feet (107 m)
Trekking Duration: 8 hours
Today we trek to the French Valley. The French Valley is one of the most picturesque valleys in Torres del Paine National Park. It is unique because of the hanging glaciers, stunning granite walls, and spires. People often witness the glaciers calving (dropping giant icebergs) and hear this natural symphony in the granite amphitheater. We continue to get closer to the granite spires and glacial lake and on the return journey we can see the turquoise color of glacial Lake Pehoe. Pehoe means ‘Hidden Lake’ in the Tehuelche Language. We continue trekking until we reach Refugio Paine Grande, where we have incredible views of the Paine Grande and Los Cuernos. We have free time until dinner is served.
Day 5
Hiking Mileage: 7 miles (11km)
Elevation Gain: 820 feet (250m)
Elevation Loss: 688 feet (210m)
Trekking Duration: 4 hours
This morning we have breakfast and depart on our trek along the enchanting Grey Lake (Lago Grey). During our hike, we’ll have views of electric blue icebergs and the magnificent Grey glacier. We hike to the Northeast coast of Grey Lake from where our adventure really starts! Our guides will introduce us to our kayaking equipment and provide a safety talk for our paddle through the floating icebergs of Grey Lake. We then safely kayak near Grey Glacier to get an amazing view of the river of ice. After our kayak adventure, we hike to Refugio Grey, where we will stay for the night. Here we’ll have time to relax until dinner is served.
Due to occasionally harsh weather conditions, the kayaking tour is not always possible and will be substituted by a fantastic day of hiking.
Day 6
Hiking Mileage: 4 miles (6km)
Elevation Gain: 600 feet (184m)
Elevation Loss: 600 feet (184m)
Trekking Duration: 3 hours
After breakfast, our guides will brief us on today’s route and extra gear needed. We then take a zodiac boat for 15 minutes across the lake until we reach the west side of Grey Glacier. Upon arrival at Grey Glacier, we will disembark on the land in between the Ice (Nunatak) and hike across the small island until we reach the Ice. Our glacier guides will brief the group on safety aspects and teach the group the proper techniques and correct use of our equipment. After the brief, we will begin our exploration of Grey Glacier which last approximately 3 hours. We will be able to observe crevasses, rivers, lagoons and tunnels in different tones of blue. We then make our way back to the zodiac boat and return to the docking point, where we will have lunch. We then board a large catamaran and peruse the perimeter of the lake to get up close with the numerous icebergs. Upon our arrival on the other side of the lake, we have about a 1-mile hike where we meet our driver who will transfer us back to Puerto Natales. Upon arrival, we’ll check into our hotel and have free time before going out on the town for our final celebratory dinner together. What a week it has been!
Due to occasionally harsh weather conditions, the glacier hiking is not always possible and will be substituted by a fantastic day of hiking.
Day 7
After breakfast, our shuttle driver will deliver you back to the airport in Puerto Natales. Thank you for choosing Wildland Trekking!
Villa Serrano Add-On Package
Looking to make the most out of your time in Patagonia? We have you covered with our Villa Serrano Add-On Package that includes 2 nights at a charming and intimate lodge in the heart of Patagonia. All meals and transportation are included, and we have optional activities such as kayaking, horseback riding, fly-fishing, or spa you may choose to book. Note that this package begins in the afternoon of Day 6 of this itinerary. Further explore Patagonia and enjoy some well-earned relaxation!
Trip Dates
Click on a date to register. You can also click here to request new dates or book through customer service.
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What's Included
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A detailed trip packet that takes the guesswork out of your travel, training, packing, and preparing for the trip
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Trained hiking guide(s) with years of personal wilderness and hiking experience, medical certifications, and a passion for leading people into breathtaking landscapes. See Guide Bios.
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Transportation for the duration of the tour starting on Day 1 and ending on Day 7
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Lodging for the duration of the tour including hotels in Puerto Natales and Refugio (backcountry hut or campsites) in Torres del Paine National Park
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Meals beginning with dinner on Day 1 through breakfast on Day 7
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Entrance fees
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Use of a backpack & trekking poles
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Emergency equipment including a company-issued first-aid kit and communication device
What's Not Included
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Transportation to/from Puerto Natales -
All expenses due to unavoidable events e.g. flight cancellation, personal illness, strikes, etc. (we recommend trip insurance coverage for these variables)
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Kayak equipment and local kayak guides for one day (weather permitting, not guaranteed). Approximate price is $150 USD.
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Glacier hiking equipment and glacier hiking guides for one day (weather permitting, not guaranteed). Approximate price is $220 USD.
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Bar bills, drink bills, telephone bills, Wi-Fi bills and other personal expenses (shopping/laundry)
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Clothes, rain gear, and footwear
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Sunscreen, toiletries, water bottles, headlamp/flashlight and personal items
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Porter services - options are available for an extra fee on most trip dates. Reach out to our Adventure Consultant team for more details.
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Guide gratuities are optional and at the discretion of each customer. A suggested guideline is to reward outstanding service with a tip of 5-10% of the total trip cost. Local currency is preferred, or USD is also appreciated. Gratuities for kayak and ice hike guides (recommended $25-$50 per guest).
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Trip insurance that includes medical coverage and at least $30,000 in evacuation and repatriation coverage (required)
Accommodations
* These exact accommodations are not guaranteed. In some instances alternative accommodations of similar quality and location may be used.
HOTEL NATALINO
2 NIGHTS
This modern, comfortable hotel, with architecture that evokes the form of Patagonia’s natural landscapes, is a premier accommodation in the town of Puerto Natales. Just a couple years old, and with all the amenities, it is a fantastic place to prepare before, and rest after, our Patagonia trek.
(heated pool)
TORRES DEL PAINE REFUGIOS
4 NIGHTS
Refugios are inviting backcountry huts/lodges with beds, kitchens, chefs and staff, dining rooms, and bathrooms/showers. The accommodations are dorm-style with communal, co-ed bedrooms that contain 6-8 beds per room. Bathrooms are gender-separated with hot water, showers and flush toilets. Please note: for those who have opted for the single supplement, there are no single rooms available during the Refugio section of this trek.
Trip Logistics & FAQs
Where Do We Meet?
We will meet you at the Puerto Natales Airport (Teniente Julio Gallardo Airport/ PNT) on Day 1 and transport you to our first night’s hotel. The group will meet at 5:00 PM in the lobby for our orientation meeting. Please plan for flights to arrive no later than 4:00 PM on Day 1.
Our pre-trip support team will be in contact approximately 45 days before your trip to coordinate your rendezvous and answer any last-minute questions you have.
Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed guidance about flights, shuttles, recommended lodging and more.
Travel to/From Puerto Natales
Start/End Location: Puerto Natales, Chile
Closest Airport: Teniente Julio Gallardo Airport (PNT) in Puerto Natales, Chile
We recommend flying directly into Puerto Natales, Chile for this trip. LATAM Airlines, Sky Airline, & Jet Smart offer direct flights from Santiago to Puerto Natales.
Day 1: Please arrive no later than 4:00 PM on Day 1 into Puerto Natales. Our Patagonia team will rendezvous with you at the airport and transport you to our hotel. An orientation meeting, dinner, and accommodations are included on Day 1.
Day 7: You are welcome to depart anytime today. Breakfast is included.
Flights to and from Puerto Natales are the guest’s responsibility.
Alternate Airport: If you choose to fly into Punta Arenas (PUQ) — a 3 hour’s drive from Puerto Natales — you can arrange for a local bus to transfer you to Puerto Natales. Below are some recommendations. These are comfortable coach busses, and the process is easy to navigate. The website can be viewed in both English and Spanish. The cost is roughly $10-$12 per person and must be purchased online in advance. If you choose to take the bus from Punta Arenas, instead of flying directly into Puerto Natales, we will pick you up from the Puerto Natalies bus terminal and transfer you to the first night’s hotel.
Important Note: When you enter Chile, you will be issued a document called a PDI (tourism card). Please do NOT throw this away. You will need it to exit the country and nearly every lodge we stay in also asks for a copy. It is also a good idea to take a picture of it, front and back.
Pre and Post-trip On Request Lodging
We secure limited amounts of pre and post trip lodging in Puerto Natales, Chile as an optional add-on for guests of this trip. This lodging is on request, and is available on a first come, first serve basis. If interested, please reach out directly to our team to check availability.
Safety Precautions
Your safety is our top priority. Our hiking tours are led by professional hiking guides, all of whom are wilderness-certified first responders or EMT’s, each with years of guiding and wilderness experience. Guides adhere to standardized risk management protocols in case of any potential or actual incident, and all tours carry an emergency communication device and comprehensive first-aid kit. Additionally we have a “24/7” system through which guides or guests can reach Wildland support personnel at any time.
In the interest of your safety, it’s important to refer to the Center for Disease Control website for up-to-date recommendations on immunizations before your trip.
Guides
Our approach to international travel is to combine the best of two worlds: the dialed-in details, professionalism and consistency Wildland trips are known for; and the cultural immersion and intimate regional knowledge that only locals can provide. To excel with this approach, we vet and hire the best local guides, welcome them into the Wildland family and train them to meet our standard of excellence with every aspect of a trip. But along with managing logistics and safety, your guides will teach you about the area’s history and culture, and provide a level of familiarity and intimate detail only locals can.
Check out our Meet Our Team page for staff bios.
Age Restrictions
Age restrictions on this trip are as follows:
- 12 and older to join scheduled tours (mixed groups)
- 5 and older to join private tours, with final approval and specific logistical requirements (such as porter or stock assist) determined on a case by case basis
Trip Insurance
Field evacuation (minimum coverage of at least $30,000), repatriation, and medical trip insurance is REQUIRED as a condition of partnership terms with our Patagonian vendors.
We recommend IMG/iTravelinsured. They are one of the world’s leading providers of travel insurance and policies meet all requirements.
For information on the recommended IMG/iTravelinsured policies please click here.
If you already have the required insurance or wish to purchase from anyone other than IMG/iTravelinsured, we recommend careful consultation with the provider to ensure appropriate coverage. This is because many providers have a number of policy exclusions.
Reviews
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David E
10 months agoThe experience of a lifetime
Embarking on a trek led by Andrea and Victor was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we set foot on the trail, it was evident that this journey would be exceptional. Andrea and Victor's extensive knowledge of the environment, geography, and history of the area was second to none. They seamlessly blended education with entertainment, making each step more captivating than the last. Their infectious enthusiasm for the natural world around us made every moment of the trek feel like an adventure. With their witty humor and engaging stories, they transformed challenging climbs into enjoyable escapades. Their kindness and support were evident in their interactions with every member of the crew, ensuring that everyone felt valued and included. The dedication Andrea and Victor showed in creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere truly set this trek apart. They went above and beyond to make sure each participant had an unforgettable experience, fostering a sense of camaraderie and connection among the group. Their commitment to excellence in guiding and hosting was unparalleled, leaving us all with memories to cherish for a lifetime. In summary, Andrea and Victor's guiding prowess, coupled with their warmth and approachability, made this trek an adventure of a lifetime. If you're seeking a journey filled with breathtaking scenery, fascinating insights, and a sense of belonging, look no further than a trek with Andrea and Victor. They truly embody the essence of exceptional adventure guides. ️ ️
Margaret C
10 months agoIconic status is well deserved
The scenery and trail did not disappoint. Their iconic status is well deserved. The guides, Andrea and Victor, were first class. I especially appreciated their knowledge of natural history. Their depth of knowledge of the local birds enhanced my trip.
Chris W
2 years agoI love Patagonia!
Fantastic trip to a totally fabulous place (I am a geologist and it was always a must location). Karina is a great guide and a wonderful person. I would love to do the O Circuit next year with her. The trip is not extremely demanding, but intense in. terms of the overall experience. I love Patagonia! My suggestion would be to start one day earlier to have more time for the Ascensio Valley; on the first day after the drive to the Park would be nice to have a relatively easy hike, just to stretch a bit after long travel (e.g. the trail to Co. Paine on the NE side of the Valley).
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