Trekking Routes in Torres del Paine: W Trek & O Circuit
Planning a trek in Torres del Paine National Park is not just about choosing dates: it’s about selecting the right route based on your time, fitness level, and expectations.
One of the most common mistakes is thinking that “the W is just one route.” In reality, there are several variations, each with clear advantages. In this guide, we explain all the available routes, how they are completed, who they are ideal for, and how to book them easily with Booking Patagonia—avoiding mistakes, overbookings, or impossible combinations.
👉 Book your Torres del Paine trek with Booking Patagonia and leave the logistics in the hands of local experts.
What trekking routes are available in Torres del Paine?
Currently, the most popular and bookable routes are:
- W Trek East → West
- W Trek West → East
- W Trek Express
- O Circuit (O Trek)
All of them cover different sections of the park and do not offer the same experience, even though they share some iconic viewpoints.
W Trek East to West (the classic route)
The East–West W Trek is the most traditional and balanced way to explore the park.
How is it done?
- Start: Las Torres Sector
- Finish: Grey Glacier / Paine Grande
- Typical duration: 4 to 5 days
- Difficulty: Moderate
Main highlights:
- Base Torres
- French Valley
- Grey Glacier
Who is it ideal for?
- ✔️ First-time visitors to Torres del Paine
- ✔️ Travelers looking for a progressive pace
- ✔️ Those seeking the “classic” park experience
👉 Book the W Trek East–West with Booking Patagonia, including refugios, camping, buses, and catamaran in one single itinerary.
W Trek West to East (more challenging, same scenery)
This version covers the same places as the classic W but in reverse.
How is it done?
- Start: Paine Grande / Grey Glacier
- Finish: Base Torres
- Duration: 4 to 5 days
- Difficulty: Moderate to High
Why choose it?
- ✔️ Less congestion during the first days
- ✔️ Finish at Base Torres (epic finale)
- ✔️ Ideal for trekkers with some experience
⚠️ Requires better logistical planning, especially for transport connections. This is where Booking Patagonia becomes essential.
W Trek Express (Torres del Paine in fewer days)
The W Express is designed for those who don’t have five days but still want to see the essentials.
Key features:
- Duration: 2 to 3 days
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Priority sections:
- Base Torres
- French Valley (depending on the version)
Ideal for:
- ✔️ Short trips
- ✔️ Active travelers with limited time
- ✔️ Combining trekking with other Patagonia activities
👉 With Booking Patagonia, you can book the W Express with optimized nights and transfers adjusted to your available time.
O Circuit (O Trek): the full experience
The O Trek is the longest and wildest route in the park.
Key facts:
- Duration: 7 to 9 days
- Difficulty: High
- Includes:
- The full W Trek
- Remote northern sections of the park
- John Gardner Pass
Who is it for?
- ✔️ Experienced trekkers
- ✔️ Travelers seeking isolation and pristine nature
- ✔️ Those with good physical condition and prior planning
⚠️ Very limited availability and strict rules apply.
👉 Advance booking is mandatory with Booking Patagonia.
Which Torres del Paine route should you choose?
| Traveler type | Recommended route |
|---|---|
| First time | W East → West |
| Experienced trekker | W West → East |
| Limited time | W Express |
| Full adventure | O Circuit |
Why book your Torres del Paine trek with Booking Patagonia?
- ✔️ Real integration of refugios, camping, and transport
- ✔️ Valid itineraries according to park regulations
- ✔️ Support before, during, and after your trek
- ✔️ Avoid common booking mistakes
- ✔️ Patagonia specialists
👉 Book your Torres del Paine route now at www.bookingpatagonia.travel and experience one of the most spectacular trekking destinations on Earth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I change the direction of the W Trek after booking?
Not always. It depends on availability at refugios and transport. That’s why planning correctly from the start is essential.
Does the O Trek include the W?
Yes. The O Circuit first covers the northern section and then completes the classic W.
Do I need a guide?
It is not mandatory during the summer season, but on longer routes such as the O Trek it may be advisable. However, during the winter season, a guide is mandatory.
"A practical guide to choosing the best trekking route in Torres del Paine based on your time, experience, and travel style."
Planning a trek in Torres del Paine National Park is not just about picking dates. Choosing the right route is essential to match your time, fitness level, and expectations.
This guide explains the different W Trek options and the O Circuit, who each route is best for, and how to book safely with Booking Patagonia.
