Set out on a captivating 5-day trek through the Torres del Paine National Park‘s renowned W Circuit. Hike along iconic trails, marveling at the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife. Enjoy the rugged beauty of this Patagonian gem, staying in cozy mountain refuges along the way. Whether you’re an avid adventurer or seek a challenging yet rewarding outdoor experience, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders. Discover the secrets that lie within this captivating region, where every step leads you deeper into a realm of untamed beauty.
Key Points
- 5-day guided tour through the iconic Torres del Paine National Park, with accommodations in mountain refuges and full board meals included.
- Highlights include trekking to the Base of the Towers, exploring the French Valley, and witnessing the Grey Glacier.
- Tour not suitable for children under 10 or those with low fitness levels, with a non-refundable cancellation policy in place.
- Round-trip transportation from Puerto Natales, entrance tickets, and a catamaran ride back to Puerto Natales are included.
- Proper gear and travel insurance are recommended for this challenging yet rewarding trek through the Patagonian wilderness.
Tour Overview and Pricing
Embarking on the W Circuit in Torres del Paine, this 5-day tour offers an immersive experience in the park’s stunning natural landscape. Priced from $2,344 per person, the tour features a non-refundable cancellation policy.
Participants will enjoy 4 nights’ lodging in mountain refuges, with full board meals included. The itinerary covers highlights like the Base of the Towers, French Valley, and Grey Glacier, with options for activities like ice hiking and kayaking.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for certain groups, such as children under 10 or those with low fitness levels. Proper gear and travel insurance are recommended, as the tour operates rain or shine in the Patagonian environment.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Torres Del Paine.
Itinerary Highlights
The W Circuit in Torres del Paine National Park offers an impressive itinerary spanning five days. On Day 1, trekkers embark on a demanding 14-mile hike to the Base of the Towers, which takes 8-10 hours. The next day, they’ll explore the moderate 7-9 mile trail to Refugio los Cuernos or French Dome, taking 4-5 hours. Day 3 brings a moderate 10.5-mile trek through the French Valley over 6-7 hours. The moderate 6.8-mile Grey Glacier hike, lasting 4-4.5 hours, is on the agenda for Day 4. Finally, the 6.8-mile moderate hike to Paine Grande Refuge and catamaran ride back to Puerto Natales wrap up the journey on Day 5.
| Day | Activity | Distance | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Trek to Base of the Towers | 14 miles | 8-10 hrs |
| 2 | Hike to Refugio los Cuernos or French Dome | 7 or 9 miles | 4-5 hrs |
| 3 | Explore French Valley | 10.5 miles | 6-7 hrs |
| 4 | Grey Glacier hike | 6.8 miles | 4-4.5 hrs |
| 5 | Hike to Paine Grande Refuge, catamaran ride | 6.8 miles | 4-4.5 hrs |
Inclusions and Accommodations
This tour includes round-trip transport from Puerto Natales to Torres del Paine, as well as 5 days and 4 nights of lodging in shared mountain refuges accommodating 6-8 people.
Full board meals are also provided, along with a catamaran ticket and shuttle bus to the Las Torres area. The entrance ticket to Torres del Paine and a box lunch on Day 1 are included.
Travel and accident insurance is provided.
Optional activities like ice hiking and kayaking at Grey Glacier are available for an additional cost.
Participant Restrictions
Certain participants may find this tour unsuitable.
The Torres del Paine W Circuit trek isn’t recommended for children under 10, pregnant women, wheelchair users, individuals with vertigo, those over 65, or those with recent surgeries or low fitness levels.
Hikers should be prepared with suitable gear, including a windbreaker, hat, change of clothes, and rain gear, as the tour operates rain or shine and in low temperatures.
Travel insurance is advised.
Participants should also note there’s a $57 charge for reservations during Christmas or New Year, which includes a special dinner.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyParticipant Recommendations
Hikers embarking on the Torres del Paine W Circuit trek should come prepared with the recommended gear and items. A valid passport, comfortable shoes, a windbreaker, a hat, an extra set of clothes, a camera, sunscreen, rain gear, toiletries, and personal medication are essential.
Low-temperature gear is highly recommended, as the weather can be unpredictable. Travel insurance is also advised, as the trek takes place rain or shine. Following these recommendations will help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for participants.
It’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, wheelchair users, individuals with vertigo, those over 65, or those with recent surgeries or low fitness levels.
Important Notes
The tour departs at 7:00 AM from the Puerto Natales Bus Terminal on Day 1.
All excursions are subject to weather conditions, so participants should be prepared for variable conditions.
Smoking and fires in the camps are prohibited.
Travelers should also be aware of an additional $57 charge for reservations during the Christmas or New Year period, which covers a special dinner.
The tour takes place rain or shine, so it’s crucial for participants to have appropriate low-temperature gear.
Departure
The tour departs at 7:00 AM sharp from the Puerto Natales Bus Terminal on the first day.
Participants must be ready to board the transport at this time. Arriving late may result in missing the departure, as the group won’t wait for latecomers.
It’s crucial to arrive on time, as the day’s hiking activities are scheduled to start immediately upon reaching the trailhead.
The tour operates rain or shine, so participants should come prepared for various weather conditions.
Proper planning and punctuality are essential for a smooth start to the W Circuit adventure in Torres del Paine National Park.
Excursion Considerations
All the excursions on the W Circuit tour are subject to the prevailing weather conditions. The tour is not recommended for certain participants, such as children under 10, pregnant women, wheelchair users, individuals with vertigo, those over 65, or those with recent surgeries and low fitness levels. Recommended items for the trek include a passport, comfortable shoes, a windbreaker, hat, change of clothes, camera, sunscreen, rain gear, toiletries, and personal medication. Travelers should note that the tour takes place rain or shine, and low-temperature gear is advised. Plus, there’s a $57 charge for reservations during Christmas or New Year for a special dinner.
| Participant Restrictions | Recommended Items | Important Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Children under 10 | Passport | Weather-dependent excursions |
| Pregnant women | Comfortable shoes | No smoking or fires in camps |
| Wheelchair users | Windbreaker, hat | $57 charge for special dinner |
| Individuals with vertigo | Camera, sunscreen | Travel insurance advised |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do if I Encounter Wildlife During the Hike?
When encountering wildlife, it’s best to maintain a safe distance, avoid sudden movements, and refrain from feeding or approaching the animals. Remain calm and follow the guidance of the tour guides to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Are There Any Medical Facilities or Hospitals Near the Trails?
There are no hospitals or medical facilities located directly along the hiking trails. The nearest medical resources are in the town of Puerto Natales, which is a considerable distance from the Torres del Paine National Park. Hikers should plan accordingly.
Can I Bring My Own Camping Gear Instead of Using the Refuges?
No, the tour doesn’t allow bringing your own camping gear. It provides lodging in mountain refuges as part of the package. Participants must use the accommodations specified in the itinerary.
Is It Possible to Extend the Tour or Add Extra Days?
The tour operator doesn’t offer the option to extend the 5-day itinerary or add extra days. However, travelers can inquire about creating a customized itinerary with additional days if they desire a longer trek in Torres del Paine.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Torres Del Paine?
The best time to visit Torres del Paine is during the summer months of November to March when the weather is mild and the days are long, allowing for optimal hiking conditions and scenery.
The Sum Up
The Torres del Paine: W Circuit in Mountain Refuge offers an exhilarating 5-day trek through breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife. Priced from $2,344 per person, the tour features iconic trails, full-board accommodations, and is designed for those with moderate to high fitness levels. With essential gear and travel insurance recommended, this stunning national park adventure provides an unforgettable experience for the adventurous trekker.
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