Overview
Distance
125km
Duration
8 Days
Difficulty
Grade II
Price
From £400pp
Type of Trek
Self-Guided
Accommodation
Camping (can rent)
Food
Self-Catered
What is the O Circuit?
The O Trek is the ultimate Torres del Paine experience—a full circuit around the Paine Massif that takes you through the park’s most iconic scenery and its most remote corners. Over 8 days, this budget itinerary will take you through dramatic valleys, dense forests, and across high mountain passes, with highlights like the breathtaking John Gardner Pass, Glacier Grey, and the famous Base Torres viewpoint. This route includes everything the W Trek offers, plus the quieter and more rugged backside of the park, where you’ll find fewer crowds and a deeper connection to nature. It’s a challenging, rewarding adventure for hikers who want the complete Torres del Paine journey.
For those on a budget, the O Trek can be completed using self-pitched campsites wherever possible (can book up quickly), keeping costs low while still offering an unforgettable experience. You’ll carry and set up your own tent at designated sites along the route, most of which include basic facilities like toilets, cold or hot showers, and cooking shelters. This itinerary follows a self-catered approach, meaning you’ll bring and prepare your own food using the camp kitchens—giving you full control over meals and helping you avoid the high costs of pre-packaged meals or full-board stays. It’s the ideal setup for hikers looking for a more affordable and hands-on adventure.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Central to Seron
Distance: 13 km
Elevation Gain: 350m
Start the day by travelling from Puerto Natales (or wherever you are coming from) to Torres del Paine National Park. If you are taking a bus, aim to get an early one to arrive early and make the most out of your day on the quiet first section.
The hike from Central to Serón marks the official start of the Torres del Paine O Circuit in Chilean Patagonia, offering a relatively gentle yet scenic introduction to one of the world’s most iconic trekking routes. The trail winds through open grasslands, forests, and gentle hills with views of the Paine Massif and the Rio Paine valley. It’s a good warm-up day, taking around 4 to 5 hours to complete at a moderate pace, with minimal elevation gain. Along the way, you’ll likely pass grazing horses, spot birds of prey soaring overhead, and due to the openness of the grasslands, feel the power of the Patagonian wind.
Day 2 - Seron to Dickson
Distance: 18 km
Elevation Gain: 480m
Typically completed in 5 to 7 hours, the hike from Serón to Dickson presents moderate challenges, including an elevation gain of about 480m. The journey begins with a flat path alongside the Paine River, leading to gentle ascents and descents around Mount Paine and Lake Paine.
Midway, the trail passes the Coirón ranger station, offering a spot for rest and registration. The latter part of the hike traverses open areas near the Paine River. Upon reaching Dickson, trekkers find a serene campsite nestled by Lake Dickson, with stunning views of the Dickson Glacier. This remote location provides a tranquil setting to unwind and prepare for the challenges ahead on the circuit.
Day 3 - Dickson to Los Perros
Distance: 13km
Elevation Gain: 500m
Typically completed in 3 to 4 hours, the trail begins with a steady ascent through dense forests, offering glimpses of the surrounding valleys and distant glaciers. Continuing along the path, the terrain transitions from forested areas to rocky landscapes as it approaches the Valle Los Perros viewpoint, presenting a striking panorama of the Los Perros Glacier and its adjacent lake.
After another 500m, situated at 550 meters above sea level, Los Perros campsite serves as a crucial rest point before tackling the challenging John Gardner Pass the following day. While the facilities at Los Perros are basic, the site’s secluded nature and proximity to the glacier provide a serene environment for trekkers to recharge and prepare for the demanding sections ahead.
Day 4 - Los Perros to Grey
Distance: 15 km
Elevation Gain: 1,050m
The trek from Los Perros to Grey is one of the most demanding and rewarding sections of the Torres del Paine O Circuit, taking between 7 to 10 hours to complete. This segment involves a significant elevation gain of about 1,061 meters as you ascend to the John Gardner Pass, the highest point on the circuit at around 1,200 meters above sea level. The ascent begins with a steep climb through dense forests, transitioning to exposed, rockyterrain as you approach the pass. Weather conditions can be unpredictable, with strong winds, rain, and even snow possible, adding to the challenge. You are recommended to leave really early this day, as weather tends to get progressively worse throughout the day. We left at 6am and made it to John Gardner Pass soon after 8am.
Reaching the summit of John Gardner Pass offers a breathtaking reward: an expansive view of the vast Grey Glacier stretching into the distance. The subsequent descent is steep and demanding, navigating through forested paths and crossing several suspension bridges that provide unique vantage points of the glacier and surrounding landscapes.
This day was our favourite of the trek. For us the views were unmatched, and still being in the O section there wasn’t much traffic. We’re so happy we chose to do the O rather than the W because of this day.
Day 5 - 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 6 - 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 7 - 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 8 - Chileno to Central 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?
8 days and 7 nights of camping and trekking through the incredible scenery of Torres del Paine
Transport by bus to and from the National Park
National Park Entrance
Full itinerary, personally created for each individual customer
What isn't included?
Flights, however guidance can be provided for the best options
Travel insurance
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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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