The W Trek in Torres del Paine is one of the most breathtaking hikes in Chilean Patagonia. This complete guide helps you plan your adventure step by step for the 2025 and 2026 seasons. It includes essential information on the best time to visit, available accommodation options (refugios, domes, and campsites), what to pack for Patagonia’s unpredictable weather, how to get there from Puerto Natales, estimated costs, and practical tips. You’ll also discover the advantages of booking everything through Booking Patagonia: real-time availability, instant confirmation, and 24/7 support. Perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, well-organized experience in one of the world’s most iconic trekking destinations. Plan stress-free, book everything in one place, and immerse yourself in the magic of Torres del Paine—walking among glaciers, valleys, and legendary mountains.

The W Trek in Torres del Paine is one of the most spectacular hikes in Chilean Patagonia. This complete W Trek guide will help you plan your 4–5 day adventure through glaciers, turquoise lakes, and granite towers in Torres del Paine National Park. Discover the best time to go, what to pack, where to stay, and how to book your Patagonia trek step by step.

Torres del Paine isn’t just walked — it’s lived. If there’s one trail that captures the spirit of Patagonia, it’s the W Trek: five days of deep connection with the wild nature of southern Chile. But to truly enjoy it, you need to plan it well. Here's how to do it... stress-free.

What is the W Trek in Torres del Paine?

The W Trek is one of the world’s most iconic multi-day hikes. This 4–5 day route covers three major valleys in Torres del Paine National Park, along approximately 70 km (43 miles) of well-marked trails:

• Ascencio Valley: to the famous Base of the Towers
• French Valley: with dramatic lookouts and hanging glaciers
• Grey Glacier Valley: where ancient ice meets the lake

Difficulty level: Intermediate to advanced. Good physical condition and previous hiking experience are recommended. Daily hikes range from 4 to 8 hours, with up to 500 meters (1,600 ft) of elevation gain.

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When to Do the W Trek: Best Time of Year

The best time to hike the W Trek is between October and April, when the trails are fully open and refuges are in full operation.

High Season (December – February)

• Pros: More stable weather, longer days (up to 17 hours of daylight)
• Cons: Higher prices, more crowded
• Temperatures: 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F)

Shoulder Season (October–November and March–April)

• Pros: Fewer people, lower prices, beautiful fall or spring colors
• Cons: Less predictable weather, limited services
• Temperatures: 0°C to 15°C (32°F to 59°F)

Pro Tip: Book 3–6 months in advance. Refuges and campsites fill up quickly, especially in high season.

W Trek Accommodation: Refuges, Domes & Campsites

Along the W Trek, you’ll find several accommodation options:

Main Overnight Stops

• Las Torres: Camping Las Torres, Refugio Chileno
• French Valley: Refugio Los Cuernos, Camping Francés
• Paine Grande: Refugio and Camping Paine Grande
• Grey Glacier: Refugio Grey, Camping Grey

Accommodation Types

• Refuges: Shared rooms with beds, heating, and bathrooms. From $80 USD/night.
• Domes: Semi-permanent tents with beds and basic heating. From $60 USD/night.
• Campsites: Pitch-your-own-tent areas with access to bathrooms/showers. From $15 USD/night.

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Meals on the W Trek

Cooking is not allowed in most refuges for safety and conservation reasons. We recommend booking the full-board meal plan, which includes:

• Breakfast: Cereal, bread, jam, coffee/tea, fruit
• Box lunch: Sandwiches, nuts, energy bars, fruit
• Dinner: Hot main course with vegetarian options

Benefits of full board:

• No need to carry food weight
• Proper nutrition after long hikes
• Don’t rely on limited supplies in the park

Cost: $45–60 USD/day (in refuges)

What to Pack for the W Trek

Your gear should be lightweight but complete — weather in Patagonia can change fast.

Essential Clothing

• Waterproof hiking boots (broken in)
• Layering system: base + fleece + waterproof shell
• Trekking pants + waterproof pants
• Thermal underwear & spare clothing
• 3–4 pairs of hiking socks
• Thermal hat + sun hat
• Waterproof gloves

Technical Gear

• 40–50L backpack with rain cover
• Trekking poles (highly recommended)
• Headlamp + spare batteries
• Reusable bottle or 2L hydration system
• Sleeping bag (min. –5°C if camping)

Other Essentials

• Sunscreen SPF 50+
• UV sunglasses
• Extra energy snacks
• Camera + power bank
• Basic first-aid kit
• Waterproof bag for documents

Packing tip: Your backpack should weigh no more than 15–20% of your body weight.

How to Get to Torres del Paine from Puerto Natales

Puerto Natales is your main base to reach the park. Here are two main options:

Option 1: Bus to Laguna Amarga

• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Best for: Starting the trek at Las Torres
• Departures: Daily at 7:30 AM and 2:30 PM
• Cost: $8–12 USD each way

Option 2: Bus + Catamaran via Pudeto

• Duration: 1h bus + 30 min ferry
• Best for: Starting at Paine Grande
• Bonus: Scenic lake views
• Cost: $15–20 USD per leg

Park Entrance

• Foreign visitors: $39 USD (high season)
• Valid for: 3 consecutive days
• Required: Passport

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Why Book Your W Trek with Booking Patagonia

Booking your W Trek Torres del Paine with Booking Patagonia gives you access to a comprehensive platform that centralizes everything you need for your adventure:

Everything in One Place

• Real-time accommodation with instant confirmation
• Coordinated bus and ferry transport
• Guaranteed park tickets
• Full-board meal options
• Extras: gear rental, travel insurance

Exclusive Benefits

• No middlemen: direct operator prices
• 24/7 support in English and Spanish
• Flexible and secure payment methods
• 10+ years of local Patagonia expertise

Stress-Free Planning

No more juggling multiple bookings or emails. Everything organized. Everything confirmed. All in one place.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the W Trek?

4 to 5 days, around 70 km (43 miles)

How much does it cost?

$400–800 USD/person, depending on lodging and meals

Is it hard?

Intermediate to challenging. Requires good physical shape

Can I do it in the off-season?

Yes, but it’s riskier. Some refuges close and conditions are harsher

Do I need a guide?

Not required, but recommended for beginners

Final Tips for Your Patagonia Adventure

The W Trek in Torres del Paine is more than just a hike: it's a transformative experience through one of the last truly wild places on the planet.

Before You Go

• Confirm all bookings 48 hours before
• Train at least 2 months in advance with weighted hikes
• Download offline maps (limited signal in the park)
• Review your travel insurance (must cover hiking)

During the Trek

• Check daily weather updates at refuges
• Stay hydrated (river water is drinkable)
• Follow Leave No Trace rules
• Connect with fellow trekkers — it’s a unique community experience

Patagonia is waiting. Let us help you plan the adventure of a lifetime.

Start your W Trek booking here