Overview
Distance
75km
Duration
5 Days
Difficulty
Grade I
Price
From £300pp
Type of Trek
Self-Guided
Accommodation
Camping (Can Rent)
Food
Self-Catered
What is the W Trek?
The essential Patagonian mission. Over 5 days, this iconic trail takes you through the heart of the park’s most stunning scenery: from the massive Glacier Grey, to the soaring granite spires of the French Valley, to the world-famous Mirador Base Torres. It’s a more accessible alternative to the full O Circuit, perfect for those with limited time or who prefer a slightly less demanding route, but still packed with unforgettable views and wild Patagonian landscapes.
The budget version of the W Trek is ideal for independent hikers who want to experience Torres del Paine without the high price tag. This itinerary uses self-pitched campsites where available, helping to keep costs down while still covering every highlight of the trail. You’ll bring your own camping gear, cook your own meals at the designated camp kitchens, and carry everything with you—making it a rewarding and affordable way to trek through the park. Facilities at campsites include toilets, showers, and shared cooking shelters, giving you the essentials without the extra cost.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Puerto Natales to Grey
Distance: 11 km
Elevation Gain: 350m
Take the early bus from Puerto Natales to Pudeto, in Torres del Paine National Park.
Catamaran from Pudeto across Lago Pehoé to Paine Grande. From here, hike north along Lago Grey to Refugio Grey, with stunning views of Glacier Grey, floating icebergs, and hanging glaciers along the way. This section is scenic and relatively gentle. Optionally, continue past the refugio to the suspension bridges for elevated glacier views. I would highly recommend this if you have time on this day, or the morning after before heading back to Paine Grande.
Day 2 - Grey to Paine Grande
Distance: 11 km
Elevation Gain: 390m
The trail begins with a gentle ascent through forested areas, providing occasional glimpses of the expansive Grey Lake and the distant Grey Glacier. As you progress, the path undulates with a series of moderate climbs and descents, traversing open landscapes that can be exposed to the park’s notorious winds. Upon nearing Refugio Paine Grande, the trail descends towards the shores of Lake Pehoé, revealing panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and blue waters. Refugio Paine Grande serves as a central hub within the park, offering amenities such as lodging, meals, and a small shop, making it an ideal spot to rest and recharge before continuing your trek.
Day 3 - Paine Grande to Cuernos
Distance: 22 km
Elevation Gain: 950m
The trek from Refugio Paine Grande to Cuernos in Torres del Paine National Park offers hikers a journey through some of Patagonia’s most stunning landscapes. This segment typically takes around 5 to 7 hours to complete. The trail begins with a relatively flat path alongside the picturesque Lake Skottsberg, providing views of the Cuernos del Paine mountains. Upon reaching Campamento Italiano, many hikers choose to leave their heavy packs and embark on a side trip into the French Valley to visit the Mirador Francés and Mirador Británico viewpoints.
The ascent to Mirador Francés involves a steady climb through dense forests, leading to a viewpoint that offers close-up views of the French Glacier and the surrounding peaks. Continuing further into the valley, the trail becomes more challenging as it approaches Mirador Británico. This viewpoint rewards hikers with a 360-degree panorama of the park’s dramatic granite spires, including Cerro Paine Grande, Cerro Catedral, and Cerro Fortaleza. After taking in these breathtaking views, hikers typically return to Campamento Italiano to retrieve their gear before proceeding to Cuernos for the night. This day’s journey, though demanding, is often considered a highlight of the W section due to its unparalleled scenery.
Day 4 - Cuernos to Chileno
Distance: 16 km
Elevation Gain: 800m
The trek from Campamento Francés to Refugio Chileno in Torres del Paine National Park typically takes around 7 hours to complete. The trail begins with a scenic route along the shores of Lake Nordenskjöld, offering expansive views of its turquoise waters and the surrounding mountain landscapes. This relatively flat section allows hikers to enjoy the park’s natural beauty before approaching more challenging terrain.
As the trail progresses, it leads to the base of Almirante Nieto, where a series of steep ascents commence. These uphill sections can be particularly demanding, especially after several hours of hiking. The path winds through exposed ridges and forested areas, eventually arriving at Refugio Chileno, situated in the Ascencio Valley. This refugio serves as a convenient base for those planning to visit the iconic Torres del Paine viewpoint the following day.
Day 5 - Chileno to Puerto Natales (via Mirador Base Torres)
Distance: 17 km
Elevation Gain: 900m
Due to the length and varied elevation of this segment, hikers are advised to start early to reach the viewpoint for sunrise. The journey begins with a steep ascent from Chileno, navigating rocky and uneven terrain as you approach the base of the iconic Torres del Paine. Upon reaching the Mirador Base Torres, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the towering granite peaks and the emerald-green lake below.
After taking in the views, the trail continues with a descent back to the junction near Campamento Las Torres. From there, it’s a relatively flat and straightforward hike along the shores of Lake Nordenskjöld to reach Central. This section offers continuous panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains, providing a serene conclusion to the trek.
What is included?
4-6 days and 3-5 nights of trekking through the incredible scenery of Torres del Paine
Transport to and from the National Park (Puerto Natales, Punta Arenas, El Calafate)
National Park Entrance
Full itinerary, personally created for each individual customer
End-to-end trip plan including accommodation before and after your trek, with options to go to El Calafate and El Chaltén in Argentina
What isn't included?
Flights, however guidance can be provided for the best options
Travel insurance
Inquire NOW to receive our full in-depth W Trek Itinerary for FREE
Simply fill out the form, and I will be in touch with the full details and next steps. If you’d like to talk things through or ask any questions, a call can easily be arrange at any point.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the W and the O trek?
The W Trek is a shorter, more popular route that covers the park’s three main valleys—Grey Glacier, the French Valley, and the Base of the Towers—typically in 4–5 days. The O Trek is a full circuit around the park, including everything on the W plus the remote backside of the Paine Massif, and takes about 7–9 days. The O is more challenging, less crowded, and offers a greater sense of wilderness and solitude.
How long prior to my trip should I book?
It’s recommended to book the W Trek at least 3 to 6 months in advance, especially if you’re hiking in peak season (December to March). Campsites and refugios fill up quickly. Booking early ensures you get your preferred route, dates, and accommodation. If you’re traveling in shoulder season (October–November or March–April), 2–3 months may be enough, but flexibility is still key.
How much does it cost?
Our pricing varies depending on which accommodation and meal options you choose. We offer full customisation to fit your needs and budget from backpackers to professionals booking a once in a lifetime dream trip. Inquire today and we can give you a quote!
Do you handle transport?
We can handle all of the permits, transport to and from the National Park and accommodation prior to and after your trek. We currently don’t handle flights, but are happy to offer guidance on the logistics of this from our experience.
What level of fitness do I need?
The W Trek in Torres del Paine requires a moderate to high level of fitness. It is achievable for most active hikers and involves 12–20 km per day over varied but well-marked terrain. We saw people of all ages and abilities across the W Trek, but be prepared for some elevation gain!
Do I need a guide?
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How can I contact you?
Book a free call or fill out our inquiry form to discuss specific questions and design your perfect itinerary. Alternatively, can reach us by email at info@torrestreks.com or on WhatsApp at +447443630842. We are always happy to answer any questions.
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