Torres del Paine: W Trek Express

Magallanes Province, Chile



Hike along one of the world's most scenic trails on the “W Trek” in Torres del Paine. Follow the W-shaped beaten trail that interlinks the 3 granite Towers, the French Valley, and the Grey Glacier.

Overview

This 5-day hiking tour explores Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia, suitable for experienced trekkers seeking guided multi-day hikes and camping.

Highlights

  • Hike to the base of the Paine Towers
  • Explore the French Valley with private transfer
  • Trek to the Grey Glacier viewpoint and take a catamaran ride
  • Camp one night at Paine Grande in provided tents
  • Stay in shared tiny houses and cabins near Puerto Natales

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Puerto Natales, Punta Arenas, or El Calafate (arrive at Calafate at least one day earlier). Transfer to Garden Domes accommodation in Puerto Natales. Welcome dinner and trek briefing included.

Day 2: Private transfer to Torres del Paine National Park. Guided 18 km hike to the Base of the Towers (7-8 hours). Overnight at Laguna Amarga cabins or 8-bed RV with views of the towers (October and April second night is in Puerto Natales).

Day 3: French Valley hike following a boat transfer from Pudeto to Paine Grande. Overnight camping at Paine Grande.

Day 4: Grey Glacier hike with catamaran ride from Paine Grande to Pudeto and bus transfer back to Puerto Natales. Overnight in tiny houses or cabins. Dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 5: Departure.

Included

  • Private transportation between hikes
  • Three nights in shared tiny houses or cabins in Puerto Natales (3 per room)
  • One night camping accommodation with tent provided
  • Three hiking days in Torres del Paine National Park
  • Guided Base of the Tower Trek on first hiking day
  • French Valley hike with private transfer and boat ticket
  • Ferry and bus tickets for Grey Glacier hike
  • Trek briefing with welcome dinner and drinks
  • One pizza night
  • Four breakfasts, three boxed lunches, and four dinners
  • Trekking poles for the first hiking day
  • Luggage storage at Garden Domes in Puerto Natales

Not Included

  • Travel and health insurance (required)
  • Park entrance fee (~$49 USD)
  • Guides on hiking days two and three
  • Tips and drinks

Important Information

  • Trip insurance is mandatory
  • A safety waiver must be signed prior to starting
  • Taxi transfers between Puerto Natales bus station and Garden Domes cost about $5 USD per ride
  • Transfers confirmed two weeks before the tour start
  • Tour dates are fixed and non-changeable
  • Additional taxes may apply for Chilean residents
  • No itinerary modifications allowed, regardless of weather
  • Hiking continues under windy or rainy conditions; summer is windy in Patagonia
  • The hike is rated hard and difficult
  • Drones, smoking, fires, off-trail hiking, and swimming in park waters are prohibited
  • The program lasts five days: arrival, three hiking days, and departure

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Booking Tips

Book early to secure availability in shared cabins or tiny houses. Bring waterproof gear, sturdy hiking boots, and layered clothing due to unpredictable weather. Best period for the catamaran transfer is outside October and April when schedules change.

Frequently Asked Questions

It is a 5-day guided trekking adventure in Chile's Torres del Paine National Park featuring challenging terrain and varied accommodations.
The trek takes place in Torres del Paine National Park, located near Puerto Natales in southern Chile.
The trek is designed for experienced hikers prepared for challenging routes and diverse accommodation types.
The program includes shared tiny houses near the Garden Domes in Puerto Natales, one night camping in provided tents, and a night at Laguna Amarga cabins.
Yes, the trek includes a viewpoint visit to Grey Glacier and a catamaran ride near the glacier.
The guided trek program spans 5 days of hiking and exploring Torres del Paine National Park.
Permits are usually managed as part of the guided tour, but check the website for current permit requirements in Chile.
Highlights include hiking to the base of the Paine Towers, exploring the French Valley, camping in Patagonia, and visiting Grey Glacier by catamaran.
The trek is typically available during the Chilean trekking season; check the website for current availability and hours.

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