The W Trek in Torres del Paine

Days

6+

Activity Level

Moderate/
Advanced

Host City

Santiago, Chile

From

$2,350 USD

W Trek Adventure in Patagonia

Join The Explorer’s Passage (TEP) on the adventure of a lifetime to the world-renowned region of Patagonia! The W Trek zigzags through the heart of Chile’s iconic Torres del Paine National Park, a captivating land where the mountain peaks form stunning granite towers and the glacier-fed lakes glisten turquoise blue. This wild Patagonian region will draw you in and undoubtedly make it very hard for you to have to go back home at the conclusion of your trip!


Explore Patagonia with TEP

Trip Highlights

Journey deep into Torres del Paine National Park as you hike the W Trek, one of the greatest multi-day hikes in the Western Hemisphere. Find yourself surrounded by the majesty of the soaring peaks of the Andes, the peaceful woodlands, the mammoth glaciers, the unique wildlife, and the rushing streams of Patagonia.

Ride a boat through the Strait of Magellan to Magdalena & Marta Islands, where you can spot Magellanic penguins, sea lions, dolphins, and other fascinating marine life.

Relax in the comfort and luxury of 4.5 / 5-Star accommodations before and after the trek, featuring some of the best hotels in Chile (note: 3.5 / 4-Star hotel package is also available, as is a 5+ Star package).

Prefer an extra day in Torres del Paine, so you can have time for an ice trekking experience on Grey Glacier or kayaking in Grey Lake? Want to split your time between locations in Argentina and Chile? Perhaps you would like to add a private guided tour of Santiago or colorful Valparaíso, or a ‘dark sky’ astronomical tour in the Atacama Desert, or even visit Chilean wine country? Keep scrolling down to learn more about our various trip customization options!

hiking-the-w-trek-chile-patagonia
grey-glacier-w-trek-torres-del-paine

Let’s Plan Your Trip Today:


TRIP COST

From $2,350 USD per person
Our W Trek trips are all-inclusive, crafted with the intent of providing you with an unforgettable adventure travel experience.

*More info. on pricing

More questions? Read more about pricing here

Start dates

Custom dates are available to hike the W Trek all year round.

To inquire about a custom date,
please contact us!

Duration

Starts at 6 Days / 5 Nights (minimum hiking in Torres del Paine is 4 full days / 3 nights)

Accommodations

Relax in comfort & luxury

max. group size

No minimum or maximum

*All Private Groups

ACTIVITY LEVEL

Moderate/Advanced*

8 Day / 7 Night Trip Daily Overview

Sample Trip Itinerary

Custom trip itineraries are available for any size group. Please contact us for a complete detailed itinerary.

This map corresponds with the itinerary’s 4 full days of hiking the W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park. The 5 day trekking option is very similar, except that it splits the final day [Paine Grande to Grey and back] in half, into two days of equivalent distance. A 6 day trekking route is also a possible option.

Want more information? Download a detailed itinerary.

Itineraries include detailed descriptions of each day, tips on travel arrangements, regional highlights, and more. It’s the perfect resource to help you choose!

Request Itinerary

Historic building in Punta Arenas, Chile, near the main square

Day 1: Arrival in Punta Arenas, Chile

Welcome to Punta Arenas! Upon arrival, you will be greeted by a member of our team and transferred to your hotel. Later, we will provide you with a 2.5 – 3 hour guided private tour of this southernmost Chilean city, which has been shaped by a multitude of cultures – leaving a valuable historical and cultural legacy that endures to this day. The city’s population descends mainly from Croatian, Spanish, Italian, German, and English immigrants.

The tour begins with a visit to Cerro Mirador, where you get a panoramic view of the city and the Strait of Magellan. You will explore main streets and avenues, various monuments, as well as the Maggiorino Borgatello Museum. This museum features a unique ethnological and natural history exhibit with a collection of flora and fauna specimens from Chile’s Magallanes Region, handicrafts and artifacts from the region’s indigenous Yaganes, Onas, and Alacalufes people, and information on the history and lives of the first European settlers. The tour concludes in the Muñoz Gamero main square.

Accommodations: Hotel Diego de Almagro, Hotel Cabo de Hornos, or La Yegua Loca

Day 2: Magdalena & Marta Islands, then Puerto Natales

Early this morning you will be heading to Magdalena Island with a guide to spend an hour with South America’s largest colony of Magellanic penguins! Next, you will continue through the Strait of Magellan to Isla Marta to see sea lions, imperial cormorants, and hundreds of southern gulls. You may even spot some dolphins! After you return to Punta Arenas, you will board a bus north to Puerto Natales. You are one step closer to your journey to Torres del Paine National Park!

For dinner, feel free to explore the town’s various options.

Accommodations: Hotel Natalino, Hotel Remota, or The Singular Patagonia

Penguins on Magdalena Island, Chile (near Punta Arenas)
A vicuña stands in front of a lake in Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Day 3: Puerto Natales to Torres del Paine

After breakfast at your hotel in Puerto Natales, you will have the morning to explore the town a bit more. Later, you will travel by bus to Torres del Paine National Park. Enjoy dinner in the Central Sector as the excitement builds for the days ahead, where you will have the rare privilege of exploring one of the planet’s most striking national parks!

Accommodations: Hotel Las Torres, Ecocamp Geodesic Dome, Mountain Hut, or Camping Tent

Day 4: First Day of W Trek (to Las Torres Lookout)

Today, you will start early and begin your hike of the W Trek – one of South America’s most famous trails. Today’s destination is the iconic Las Torres Lookout Point! During the first stretch, you will walk through the pampa, cross the Ascencio River, and then hike up to Los Vientos Mountain Pass, where you will enjoy amazing views of the valley and lakes. You will continue your journey to the Chileno Mountain Refuge, and then go deep into a lenga beech forest up to La Morrena, where the hardest part of the day’s hike begins. From there, you will follow a rock trail to the spectacular Las Torres Base Lookout Point. Later, you will return to the Central Sector to have dinner and rest.
Today’s hike is approximately 13.5 miles / 21.5 kilometers.

Accommodations: Hotel Las Torres, Ecocamp Geodesic Dome, Mountain Hut, or Camping Tent

The iconic towers of Torres del Paine National Park in Chile
Landscape view of the mountains of Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Day 5: Second Day of W Trek (Nordenskjöld Lake & Francés Sector)

Today is your second full day of hiking the W Trek. You will walk along the shores of Nordenskjöld Lake, below the peaks of Almirante Nieto and the striking Cuernos del Paine. During the hike, you will enjoy magnificent views of Los Cuernos, hanging glaciers, lakes, and the abundant vegetation and wildlife. You will have dinner and sleep in the Francés Sector.
Today’s hike is approximately 11.5 miles / 18.5 kilometers.

Accommodations: Mountain Hut or Camping Tent

Day 6: Third Day of W Trek (French Valley)

This day features one of the most memorable portions of the W Trek: the Valle Francés. You will start early with a light hike to the Italiano Campsite. From there, you will progress through the woods up the Francés River Valley. You will continue to the Francés Lookout Point, where you will enjoy one of the most breathtaking views of the trek: the view of the valley framed by the Paine Grande, Catedral, Hoja, Máscara, Espada, Aleta de Tiburón, and Cuerno del Norte mountains. The landscape will undoubtedly leave you speechless! Later, you will begin the descent to the Paine Grande Sector for the evening.
Today’s hike is approximately 15 miles / 24 kilometers.

Accommodations: Mountain Hut or Camping Tent

Hiking the W Trek in Torres del Paine, Patagonia
Grey Glacier in Torres del Paine, Patagonia

Day 7: Fourth Day of W Trek (Grey Glacier & Pehoé Lake)

On this day, you will reach the third major milestone of the trek, the incredible Grey Glacier. The trail goes around the Paine Grande, the highest peak in the mountain range (3,050 m), with incredible views of its hanging glaciers. Walking amidst Antarctic beech trees (ñirre), Dombey’s beech (coigüe), and Chilean firebush (notro), you will reach the first lookout point of Grey Lake, where you will spot floating pieces of glacier.
You will continue hiking north towards the imposing view of Grey Glacier to reach the Grey Mountain Refuge. Then, after fully taking in the sights of the massive glacier, you will return to the Paine Grande Sector and board the catamaran that will take you across Pehoé Lake to Pudeto Station. There, you will take the bus back to Puerto Natales.
Today’s hike is approximately 15 miles / 24 kilometers.

Accommodations: Hotel Natalino, Hotel Remota, or The Singular Patagonia

Day 8: Return to Punta Arenas

Today you will transfer from Puerto Natales to Punta Arenas. This marks the end of your journey with us – we wish you safe travels home and hope to join you on your next adventure!

Accommodations: N/A

Sunset over the mountains in Torres del Paine, Patagonia. A unique cloud formation lingers in the center of the frame.
Create your OWN Unique Experience

Customizing Your W Trek

Are you interested in another activity or destination in Chile and/or Patagonia? Planning to spend extra time in the region, or interested in specific travel dates? Prefer to start and end your trip in Punta Arenas, Puerto Natales, or Santiago? No problem. As experts in tailored trip planning, we can weave your interests and your timeframe into our customizable itineraries so that every detail of your extraordinary trip unfolds precisely the way you want it to. Click the options below to learn more:

With The Explorer’s Passage, you can choose between a variety of trip options in Torres del Paine National Park:

  • 4 day W Trek
  • 5 day W Trek
  • 6 day W Trek
  • Express W Trek
  • O Trek / O Circuit
  • Winter trekking (there are several opportunities to hike sections of the circuit from May through August, in the ‘off season’)

While in/around Torres del Paine National Park, you can choose to add on one or several of the following:

  • Ice trekking on Grey Glacier
  • Kayaking past glacial icebergs on Grey Lake / Lago Grey
  • Additional day hikes such as the Ferrier Lookout Trail, Lazo-Weber Trail, Rio Pingo Trail, and more
  • Private guide and/or porter support in the park
  • Cueva del Milodón Natural Monument (a striking cave experience near Puerto Natales, featuring some of South America’s most impressive human and animal archaeological/paleontological history. This excursion can be guided or self-guided)

In addition to their time in Torres del Paine National Park, many travelers choose to add in other destinations to their trips, including (but not limited to) some of the following:

  • Guided tour of Santiago and/or nearby cities such as colorful Valparaíso and Viña del Mar (La Ciudad Jardín or “The Garden City”)
  • Atacama Desert (lagoons, thermal geysers, ‘dark sky’ stargazing, hiking, and more)
  • Lake District in Chile (volcanoes, temperate rainforests, boating or kayaking, rafting, hiking, mountain biking, etc.)
  • Chilean wine country
  • Cajón del Maipo (a very unique area in the Andes Mountains near Santiago)
  • 🇦🇷 Argentine Patagonia (El Calafate, Perito Moreno Glacier, El Chaltén, Fitz Roy, Cerro Torre, Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego National Park, and much more)

Contact us today to get started customizing your dream trip to Chile!

Hear what travelers are saying:

5-Star Review Average on TripAdvisor! Read More >
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Just book with these guys, they are the best and I work in the industry! Had an amazing trip with Explorers Passage. Everyone from the start was so friendly and courteous and this got even better when we arrived in Chile. Guides, drivers and hotel staff were out of the world.
Couple this with the stunning scenery and it’s one of my top vacation ever!”
– Richard B.
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“Explorer’s Passage made our W trek adventure not only possible but seamless and amazing. It was clear from the start that they had thought of everything – from the transfers to tickets to gear. We were very prepared from all their detailed checklists and training guide. And we knew what to expect from all our pre-trip calls and emails. The level of detail in all they do is remarkable. We were able to enjoy the adventure that much more because we had so much trust in their guidance as well as execution of all those details.”
– Kate W.
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“My wife and I just got back from Patagonia after completing the W Trek that Explorers Passage had arranged for us. From our first contact with Jeff Bonaldi to our last transfer, our experience was stellar. Jeff guided us through the rather complicated logistics and was very responsive to concerns before and during the adventure. His focus was always on how to make the adventure memorable not on the bottom line for his company. I rarely write reviews but felt compelled to do so because our experience was beyond 5 stars.”
– Steve B.
relax in comfort and luxury

Trip Accommodations

For the nights before and after the W Trek, you can relax in the comfort and luxury of 5+ Star premium accommodations – featuring some of the finest hotels in Chile. Alternatively, a 3.5 / 4 Star or 4.5 / 5 Star hotel package can be reserved as well. ‘Single supplement’ options are also available for solo travelers who prefer a private room.

5+ Star Accommodations

La Yegua Loca | Punta Arenas, Chile

La Yegua Loca Boutique Hotel is a charming gem in Punta Arenas, located just below the iconic Cerro de la Cruz city viewpoint, which offers panoramas of the Strait of Magellan and the city. Situated in a lovingly-restored 1920s house, the hotel is a tribute to the rich heritage of Patagonia; through their design and decor, the 15 themed rooms pay homage to the region’s traditions. Each room features central heating, private bathrooms, king or twin beds, Wi-Fi, and modern amenities. La Yegua Loca also hosts La Cocina de la Nonna Restaurant, which serves a blend of Croatian-influenced and regional Patagonian dishes. The hotel’s bar is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy signature drinks, such as a Potro Sour or a Ruibarbito.

Yegua Loca website

The Singular Patagonia | Puerto Natales, Chile

Located just north of Puerto Natales in the small town of Puerto Bories, The Singular Patagonia is a world-class hotel overlooking the Señoret Channel. All of the hotel’s spacious, sophisticated rooms offer water views that allow guests to appreciate the nature surrounding them, as well as unique details such as heated floors. The Singular Patagonia features an on-site restaurant, bar/lounge, spa with sauna and hot tub, and a heated indoor/outdoor swimming pool.

What really sets this hotel apart are its facilities’ historical significance, situated on the grounds of the former Puerto Bories Cold Storage Plant, a National Monument since 1996 and one of Patagonia’s most important agricultural and industrial facilities. Guests can explore the plant’s preserved antique machinery on a guided tour, delving into the rich story of the Sociedad Explotadora de Tierra del Fuego and the role it played in shaping the region’s history and culture.

The Singular website

4.5 / 5 Star Accommodations

Hotel Cabo de Hornos | Punta Arenas, Chile

A photograph of the Hotel Cabo de Hornos in Punta Arenas, Chile taken in the evening from the street level. Many people who are hiking the W Trek in Patagonia will stay here as part of The Explorer's Passage 4-5 Star Hotel package option

Located in the heart of the historic district of Punta Arenas and immediately adjacent to the city’s iconic Plaza de Armas, Hotel Cabo de Hornos blends avant-garde interiors, cozy ambience, and contemporary guest rooms with marvelous views of the cityscape and the Strait of Magellan. Each of the recently-renovated rooms are decorated in Patagonian style and include breakfast and wi-fi. The hotel features an on-site restaurant, a well-equipped fitness center, and elegant social areas including a bar with a welcoming fireplace.

Hotel Cabo de Hornos website

Remota | Puerto Natales, Chile

A photograph of Remota Hotel in Puerto Natales, Chile taken in the early evening. Última Esperanza Sound is in the background. Remota is an excellent starting point for adventures into Torres del Paine National Park

Remota is a world-class refuge overlooking the Última Esperanza Sound, just a few minutes north of Puerto Natales. The lodge is designed very deliberately to connect with the nature around it – not to compete with it – and offers excellent views of Chilean Patagonia. Its 72 contemporary rooms are remarkably spacious and showcase natural features such as rustic wood beams. The hotel features a pool, sauna, bar, wi-fi enabled common areas, as well as an on-site restaurant that serves fine meals crafted with local products. Remota is an excellent starting point from which to begin your W Trek adventure!

Remota Lodge website

3.5 / 4 Star Accommodations

Hotel Diego de Almagro Punta Arenas | Punta Arenas, Chile

A daytime photograph of the exterior of Hotel Diego de Almagro in Punta Arenas, Chile. It is a great hotel to stay in one of the southernmost cities in the world

The Hotel Diego de Almagro is located in a privileged location on the waterfront of the Strait of Magellan, offering magnificent views as well as proximity and easy access to the city’s downtown area. Each room features free wi-fi and TVs. The hotel has a heated pool, a sauna, a gym, a business center, and included breakfast buffet. El Estrecho Restaurant is located on site as well.

Hotel Diego de Almagro – Punta Arenas website

Hotel Natalino | Puerto Natales, Chile

An evening photograph of Hotel Natalino in Puerto Natales, Chile. This hotel is a popular destination for trekkers who are hiking in Torres del Paine National Park

Natalino is a contemporary hotel in Puerto Natales, with some of the most striking designs of any hotels. It is an excellent launching point before heading into Torres del Paine National Park! The hotel has a terrace, indoor pool, fitness center, and guests can also enjoy a drink at the bar. Breakfast and wi-fi are included for all rooms.

Hotel Natalino website

While experiencing the W Trek in Torres del Paine, you can choose to stay in mountain huts or camping tents (and/or, Hotel Las Torres or geodesic domes in the Central Sector). These accommodation sites feature bathroom facilities with showers, personal lockers (*in huts only), and some even have pay-as-you-go internet available in common areas. Drinks (including beer and wine) and snacks are available for purchase at these sites along the trail. See below for more information:

Mountain Huts | Torres del Paine

An interior photograph of a six-person room with bunk beds in a mountain hut in Torres del Paine National Park. These lodges are common for those hiking the W Trek to stay in

Huts on the W-Trek route offer communal dorm-style accommodation with bunk beds, comparable to many other mountain huts or lodges in other parts of the world. These huts can be rustic but comfortable (especially after long days of trekking!), though the best part are the warm communal dining areas where you can meet and mingle with other fellow adventurers. The mountain huts are a perfect accommodation for anyones adventure!

Camping Tents | Torres del Paine

An exterior photograph of a campsite with tents in Torres del Paine Park

If you’re seeking a more streamlined experience while tackling the W Trek, consider opting for tent camping in Torres del Paine. This hassle-free option allows you to focus on the adventure ahead without the burden of setting up camp. At each designated site, tents are pre-pitched and ready for your arrival, so all you need to do is make your way there. Each tent is equipped with comfortable sleeping bags and sleeping mats, ensuring a restful night’s sleep amidst the stunning Patagonian landscape. This setup allows you to immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty of Torres del Paine with minimal fuss, making your trekking experience both enjoyable and convenient.

Hotel Las Torres | Torres del Paine

Located in the park’s Central Sector, Hotel Las Torres has the very best location in Torres del Paine National Park, strategically placed at the entrance to the world-famous trekking circuits: the W and the O. With your adventure base at the hotel, you will feel immersed in the pure nature and mountains of Patagonia, and will be able to enjoy your time to the maximum.

Cabins | Torres del Paine

If your route has you stopping for a night in the park’s Cuernos Sector, cabins (cabañas) can be your home for the evening. Located at the base of Los Cuernos Mountains, just slightly retired from the camping and hostel sector, these cabins will be one of your favorite memories from your time in Torres del Paine. The cabins are perfect spaces to rest and refresh, with a little space and privacy from other trekkers. Each cabin offers room for 2-3 people, with fully-made beds and towels, and shared bathrooms with hot water. The firewood heaters and comforts of cabin life add a special touch as well.

we’re always happy to help

Frequently Asked Questions

The W Trek is not considered to be a very difficult hike. There is no technical expertise needed for the W Trek and the majority of the route is very well-marked. However, you will be hiking approximately 55 miles / 88 kilometers for the standard route on the W Circuit, over four, five, or six days (your preference). The maximum distance hiked in one day can be up to 15 miles / 24 kilometers (on the 4 day W Trek). The highest elevation on the route is approximately 2,800 feet / 850 meters above sea level.

The region’s unpredictable weather may be the biggest challenge while on the W Trek, as Torres del Paine is known for high winds which can sometimes reach over ~65 miles per hour / ~100 kilometers per hour.

The W Trek takes four, five, or six days to complete (depending on your preference). It is approximately 55 miles / 88 kilometers in total length.

The W Trek is widely considered to be one of the world’s top adventure trek experiences, and is most certainly worth it! During this stunning trip in Chilean Patagonia, be prepared to be absolutely amazed by the sheer majesty and scale of your surroundings. The W Trek route takes you through beautiful mountain valleys, alongside spectacular turquoise lakes, and past soaring peaks!

Yes, you can do the W Trek without a guide. The W Trek can be done with or without a guide. Over 95% of people hike the W Trek without a guide, as the trail is generally very well-marked.

The W Trek is located in Torres del Paine National Park, the most famous part of Chilean Patagonia, in southern Chile. Puerto Natales is the nearest main town, about a 2.5 – 3 hour bus ride away. The border with Argentina is approximately 25 miles from the park’s three iconic towers (Las Torres).

There are bathrooms on the W Trek. At each mountain hut and campsite location, bathrooms are available.

Along the W Trek route there are a few small stores where you can buy snacks and drinks. When you book a W Trek trip with The Explorer’s Passage, all meals are included while hiking the W Trek in Torres del Paine. During the trip, you will have your meals at the mountain huts along the route.

Although the W Trek in Torres del Paine does not require any technical climbing or mountaineering skills, nor any altitude acclimatization, good physical condition is a prerequisite, as terrain is varied and trekking days can be long. We recommend each trekker assess their level of fitness and readiness, and train appropriately in the months and weeks preceding a W Trek trip. Before each trip, we provide general training guidance for travelers who book with The Explorer’s Passage.

More details: the W Trek is approximately 55 miles / 88 kilometers long. You can hike the W Trek in four, five, or six days. The maximum distance hiked in one day can be up to 15 miles / 24 kilometers. The highest elevation on the W Trek is approximately 2,800 feet / 850 meters above sea level. The maximum daily elevation net gain is about 2,500 feet / 760 meters.

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