Insider Tips You need to know How to Conquer the W Trek Patagonia

Are you ready for the epic trek of a lifetime? Before you set off to the hikers’ dream destination, W Trek Patagonia, here are some important things to know. 

One of Chile’s most celebrated hiking treks is the W Trek. It is part of the O Circuit, a full circuit around the Torres del Paine National Park. The W Trek goes up and down massive mountains, which means you need to be in good shape, physically prepared, and have some hiking experience before attempting this trail. 

To make your Patagonia travel adventure hitch-free and truly memorable, you must be equipped with the relevant information about the route and logistics for exploring the W Trek. Take this guide, plan your trip to this dreamlike destination, and include it in your Patagonia itinerary.

An Overview of W Trek Patagonia 

Where is The W Trek Patagonia? 

Often regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful trails, the W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia, is a one-of-a-kind travel experience. Forests, grasslands, glaciers, and mountain ranges are just some of the many environments you’ll pass through on this journey. 

You will also enjoy appreciating the unique wildlife you encounter during the hike. Guanacos, foxes, and even Andean condors are some animals you might see on your travels.

Those searching for a genuinely wild and remote experience will find the W Trek the perfect place. 

How Long Is The W Trek Patagonia?

The W Trek Patagonia is a 5-day trek across roughly 80 kilometers (50 miles) of Chilean Patagonia’s Torres del Paine National Park. The letter “W” shape of the trail was the inspiration for this hike’s moniker. 

The duration of the hike allows you to soak in Patagonia’s splendor at your leisure, so take your time enjoying the hike and the scenery. Take this chance to get out into nature and enjoy the amazing views along the way. The W Trek Patagonia is an adventure that you will surely never forget!

It’s also possible to make the hike a 4-day trek when you camp at Paine Grande the first night, walking to Glacier Grey and back in a day instead of taking 2 days. That would mean a very long first day and not hiking up to the Glacier Grey viewpoint, so I’ve opted for 5 days.

W Trek Patagonia – Highlights

The W Trek is a 5-day trek through some of the world’s most astonishing landscapes. It’s one of the most amazing hikes I’ve done. The scenery changes by the day, and the views are breathtaking. 

The Towers are large granite spires and the trail’s most well-known landmark. You’ll also take in the sights of the French Valley, a gorgeous valley encircled by high mountains and glaciers. A highlight not to forget is the Grey Glacier, a large glacier with a stunning blue-grey tint that is part of the Southern Patagonia Icefield.

These features make it an absolute must for anyone who considers themselves an outdoor enthusiast. You’ll be able to spend time in the great outdoors, taking in the stunning landscape and building memories that will last a lifetime!

W Trek Patagonia – Difficulty Level

A moderate trek by most standards, the W Trek is not technically difficult but can be very challenging and physically demanding. Just the fact that you’re walking multiple hours per day for 5 days straight is enough to tire most people.

If you’re physically fit, making your way up these mountains shouldn’t prove too difficult; however, if you’re not used to walking long distances, consider hiring a guide. They know exactly where all the best views can be found (and, more importantly, won’t mind stopping so that everyone else gets a photo opportunity break).

It is best to start early in the morning to make it back before dark. Occasionally, the trail is steep, but some flat sections allow you to catch your breath. If you have health issues like asthma or heart disease, hiking the W Trek may not be a good choice because it can get windy in certain areas. 

W Trek vs. O Trek: Which Should I Choose?

The 2 treks differ in several ways, but the main difference lies in their difficulty level. The W Trek is shorter, so it’s a good option if you’re looking for an exciting experience and don’t want to hike for longer. 

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a trip that’s more off the beaten path and doesn’t mind hiking longer, then the O trek is likely better suited to your needs.

You can avail of many services on both the W Trek and the O Trek, such as transportation, accommodation at the campsites along the trail, meals at these campsites (including breakfast), and guide services.

When Is The Best Time to Hike the W Trek?

The W Trek is best done in the summer (December-March) when you’ll have the most pleasant weather. It’s also the dry season, so your chances of staying dry are higher. 

So, if you’re looking for a more comfortable trip with less rain, try doing the W Trek from December through March. 

We visited during shoulder season, which is in late October and November. This time has fewer crowds, less expensive accommodation, and overall flexibility. It’s the perfect time to travel. 

However, the downside of the shoulder season is the probability of bad weather. 

If you want a challenge and want to battle snow or cold temperatures, consider going from April through November instead. There will also likely be snow along parts of the trek during much colder months–so if you plan on doing this trip during winter, then definitely bring a guide who knows where you can and can’t come.

Where to Stay During the W Trek 

The campsites and refugios (refuges or shelters) along the W trek are cheap and comfortable, so that you could make this trip even on a budget. Book your campsites at least 3 months in advance, as they fill up quickly. 

There are several campsites and refugios to choose from on the W Trek, ranging in price and quality:

• Refugio Los Cuernos

This Refugio is an excellent and cost-effective place to stay. It provides breathtaking views and is only a short distance from the start of the W Trek.

The cost here is around 23,906 CLP ($30) per night. 

• Refugio Paine Grande

Refugio Paine Grande is the park’s largest and busiest refugio, with enough capacity for 100 trekkers. It is located at the beginning of the hiking trail and on the shore of Lago Pehoe. 

It has mixed dorm rooms accommodating 2, 4, or 6 people. You can select between a fully made bed, which includes sheets and a blanket, or you can also opt for your sleeping bag, with prices starting at 46,000 CLP ($58) per night for a single bed and 72,000 CLP ($91) for a made-up bed per individual.

If you plan to bring down your hiking costs, as we did, you can carry a tent to your hike. It’s much cheaper at 9,000 CLP ($12) per person, which we would definitely recommend.

The Refugio offers trekkers a sizable dining area, a bar, a mini-market, and basic amenities.

• Refugio Grey

Refugio Grey is a little distance from the glacier Grey (bearing the same name), one of the more recent refugios tucked away amid the trees on Lake Grey’s shoreline.

It connects the renowned W Trek with the Paine Circuit and is a crucial stop on any trekking expedition in Torres del Paine National Park.

The Refugio provides trekkers with excellent cuisine, tidy lodgings, a fireplace, and minimal amenities.

The Grey Refugio can accommodate up to 60 people. The lodging expenses for staying at Refugio Grey start from 31,000 CLP ($40) per night for a single bed and 72,000 CLP ($92) for a fully made bed per individual.

When you’re putting down your tent, it’s only 8,000 CLP ($10) per person. Bringing your equipment or renting it from Puerto Natales is one of the best ways to keep your budget down while doing the W Trek.

• Domos Frances

Domos Frances is situated halfway between the French Valley entrance and Refugio Cuernos. It is famous for its metal-framed tents known as Domos and has communal quarters with bunk beds. The structure resembles a shelter, but it is in domes instead of being in a conventional structure.

It has shared bathrooms, hot showers, and dormitory rooms with bunk beds for 6 people. If you do not purchase a meal package, you can cook outside in the camping area, as cooking is prohibited inside the Domos.

The rates for the Domos Frances start at 113,000 CLP ($144) per night per individual and are exclusive of the meal prices. You can stay at Frances for 28,000 CLP ($35) per night when putting down your tent.

• Refugio El Chileno and Campsite

The Refugio El Chileno is situated on the Base de las Torres trail, 2 hours climb from the Las Torres sector. You can use your sleeping bag on a simple bed or rent a fully-made bed. The Refugio’s visitors also have access to common restrooms.

The cost of staying at Refugio El Chileno ranges from 75,000 CLP ($95) from April through October to 91,000 CLP ($116) from November through March. 

The Refugio also has a campsite that goes by the name of Campsite Chileno, and it is one of the closest camping sites to the Base Torres viewpoint. The campground provides communal facilities with showers, camping sites, and hot water. There is no cooking at the campsite, but you can request hot water at the bar to make things like oatmeal or instant noodles (like we did).

The cost for camping with your equipment is 20,000 CLP ($25) per person, plus an additional 9,000 CLP ($12) if you use it with single occupancy.

• Campamento Torres

Please be aware that Campamento Torres is closed for the foreseeable future.

Torres Campamento is an entirely free CONAF campground. It is the closest camping site to the Torres del Paine peaks, and the trek from the campsite to the towers takes around 45 minutes.

The campsite provides basic amenities such as restrooms and a cooking area, but no tents or other camping gear is provided. The campground is part of the W Trek and is an important stop for trekking individuals.

It is important to note that only the specified campsites may be used for camping in Torres del Paine National Park, and camping at any other place is strictly prohibited.

• Campsite Italiano

Please be aware that the Campsite Italiano is closed for the foreseeable future.

Campsite Italiano is a free campsite on the W Trek in Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park. It is CONAF-owned and contains rudimentary amenities like toilets and an outdoor cooking facility. 

The campsite needs flowing water; therefore, all water used for cooking must be gathered from a nearby river. Most campers leave their backpacks here and trek to the Francés and Britanico miradors.

It is also worth mentioning that the Italiano campsite is often flooded and non-operational when it rains heavily.

For more accommodation options, you may click on the map.

How To Book the W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park?

Embarking on the W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park can be an exhilarating way to discover the natural splendor of Patagonia. To secure your spot, booking hiking excursions through a recently launched site is recommended, which opens bookings 6 months in advance and offers a straightforward booking process.

The first step is deciding what route you want to take (East to West or West to East) and how many days you want to spend doing the hike. Then, use the site to make the appropriate booking. 

Note that you will pay a fee for using the booking platform, but it makes booking the campsites so much easier that it’s the option that we opted for.

What Should I Pack For the W Trek?

The weather on the W Trek can be unpredictable, so it’s important to pack clothes that suit all conditions. The temperature is usually between 50 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit (10 and 20 degrees Celsius) during the day and 37 to 43°F (3 to 6°C) at night. 

As you prepare for a hike, bringing the necessary gear and supplies is important to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, packing the right items can make all the difference. Some essential items to consider include the following:

• Hiking clothes. Pack warm clothes, fleece tops and jackets, thermal underwear, socks, a waterproof jacket, and pants
• Hiking shoes and rain clothes 
• Sun protection such as glasses and sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
• Basic first aid kit 
• Some snacks and water bottles
• A little cash in case of emergency
• Waterproof bag to keep valuable items 
• A plastic bag for trash, as you’d want to take all your trash with you when hiking

Should I Do the W Trek With a Guide?

The W Trek is a popular hike in Patagonia National Park. It’s not difficult, but it involves some challenging terrain. 

You can do the W Trek with a guide for safety and convenience. If you hire a guide, you can save money by doing it yourself next year.

But you can also choose to do the W trek without a guide. That’s also what we did and what most of the people we ran into on the tracks did. However, the trek challenges require you to consider the following: 

• You must be self-sufficient and have good map and compass skills. Some parts of the trail are marked, and some are not as well marked, especially in bad weather. An easy solution is to download Maps.me, an offline map where you can always see where you are.
• You should be fit enough for the harsh conditions along this route: temperatures can drop below freezing point even during summer.
• Strong winds are common; climbs up mountainsides can be strenuous and taxing even for people in good physical shape. The scenery is magnificent, however, and the views are breathtaking. The trek has no villages nearby, so you must carry all your supplies (or buy them at a premium at the campsite).

If you decide to hike the W Trek unguided, you will be responsible for arranging transportation to and from Puerto Natales (the start/finish location). A bus ride to the location will set you back around 3,000 CLP ($4) per person, with no requirement to pre-book tickets, as they can be bought on the spot before boarding the shuttle. 

Itinerary for W Trek Torres Del Paine in 5 Days (East to West)

The W Trek is an incredibly rewarding experience and one that can be challenging at times. The trail is not too difficult; however, you should be prepared for rain, cold nights, and high winds. 

You should also expect to encounter mosquitoes and low visibility due to fog. It’s important to come prepared with a good map, compass, GPS device, or mobile phone app – I recommend Maps.me.

You’ll also want to ensure proper clothing for the trek; waterproof boots are necessary, as you may cross rivers throughout your journey. Pack plenty of food, water, and first aid equipment, such as bandages and pain relievers – just in case.

We opted for the W trek from East to West to experience the Torres on our last day as a reward for all our hiking. However, there are also plenty of people who do the hike from West to East. It depends on your preference.

Day 1: From Puerto Natales to Campamento Grey – 7 mi (11 km)

The first day of the trek involves traveling from Puerto Natales to the Paine Grande and then to Campamento Grey campsite, which can be reached by bus and then by catamaran.

You will need to take a bus from Puerto Natales to Pudeto, which is the terminal for the catamaran ferry. Be sure to take one of the first buses and buy your tickets a few days in advance when possible. Especially in the high season, tickets will likely sell out a day or two in advance. 

When you first enter Torres del Paine, you will pause at the park entrance to scan your park ticket. You need to buy your ticket online in advance. Since the pandemic, the option of buying it there isn’t available.

After you’ve scanned your ticket and get dropped off at the ferry point, you line up for the ferry across the lake on a catamaran. Use the ferry to reach Paine Grande. This service may cost approximately 25,000 CLP ($30) in cash. 

No cards are accepted here as of this moment, and you cannot reserve tickets in advance; you must purchase them at the ferry terminal.

Occasionally, ferry schedules are subject to change, so you should view the most recent ones before departing. Asking the people selling you the bus ticket should be sufficient. They would know if any significant changes have occurred.

You will then arrive at Paine Grande and continue on foot to Campamento Grey. The trail begins on a steep incline trek but quickly levels out and offers uplifting views of Lake Grey.

The hike from Paine Grande to Grey takes between 3 and 4 hours, so plan to arrive late afternoon to set up camp, meet other hikers, and prepare supper.

Day 2: Campamento Grey to Campamento Paine Grande via Mirador Grey – 11 mi (18 km)

On the second day, the trek continues from Campamento Grey to Mirador Grey, which offers a stunning view of the Grey Glacier. You must hike another 1.24 mi (2 km) from the campsite to Mirador Grey.

The hike is a moderate one and takes about 30 minutes to complete. After that, you can continue on a long wooden hanging bridge, which I wouldn’t recommend if you’re afraid of heights. You’ll look closer at the Grey Glacier and the Patagonian Icefield.

After enjoying the view, you can return to the Grey Campsite to back your stuff, have breakfast, and head back to the Paine Grande campsite, where you will spend the night.

Day 3: Campamento Paine Grande to Campamento Frances via Mirador Valle del Frances – 16 mi (26 km)

On day 3, the trek continues to Campamento Frances, passing through the Mirador Valle del Frances. Depending on the weather, climbing the Francés Valley might be one of your best views of the entire Torres Del Paine W Trek.

The trail passes via the French River and Campamento Italiano, a free, CONAF-run Campamento. Before entering the Francés Valley, you can leave your baggage at Camping Italiano. 

This climb segment highlights the W’s core section, and it’s all uphill. After climbing a steep, rocky, and slick trail for an hour to reach Mirador Francés, search for Glacier Francés, which would be clinging to the mountainside to the west.

After soaking in the beautiful scenery, you will trail back to Campamento Italiano, so you can gather up your pack and walk another 30 minutes to reach Francés.

The out-and-back trek between Campamento Paine Grande and Campamento Frances is moderately difficult. The distance between the 2 campgrounds is about 16 mi (26 km).

Day 4: Campamento Frances to Camping Chileno – 12 mi (19 km)

The fourth day entails a hike through the valley to Camping Chileno. This stretch of the trek provides stunning views of the Francis Valley. 

The Towers of Paine, a collection of 3 granite peaks, will be visible along the way. It’s one of Patagonia’s most recognizable features and a popular stop for trekkers on the W Trek. 

This trail twists along a lake, gaining and shedding height until you reach the valley’s starting point, where it all becomes uphill. 

After the end of the trek, you’ll arrive at Chileno campground, located at the base of the Las Torres peaks and is a popular rest stop before the final day of the walk.

Day 5: Camping Chileno to Las Torres and back down to Hotel Las Torres – 8 mi (13 km)

The final day of the trek involves hiking to the top of Las Torres peaks, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. 

The Las Torres Peaks are a collection of 3 separate granite peaks in the Paine mountain range, often known as the Paine Massif. They have a height of 8,200 ft (2,500 m) above sea level.

The Torres del Paine peaks are the park’s centerpiece and one of Patagonia’s most recognizable features. 

After reaching the summit, you must return to campsite Chileno to grab your equipment before continuing to Hotel Las Torres. 

When you arrive at the Las Torres Hotel, take a shuttle bus to Laguna Amarga. From there, you can take a shuttle bus back to Puerto Natales and finally finish your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – W Trek Patagonia

How Long Is the W Trek in Torres del Paine?

The length of the W Trek in Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park varies based on the route and its starting and finishing points. The total extent of the W Trek measures about 46 mi (74 km), and it may require between 4 and 7 days to complete.

When Can You Hike the W Trek?

The optimum time to trek the W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park, Chile, is from November to March. The weather is often more appealing, daylight hours are longer during this period, and the weather is generally sunnier, allowing for more time for trekking and sightseeing. 

How Difficult Is the W Trek in Patagonia?

The W Trek is a moderate hike. It’s not for beginners, but it’s not technically difficult. 

You need to be in good shape and enjoy hiking but be aware that some days are long and demanding on the trail. The W Trek is not for those afraid of heights or getting wet (there are several river crossings).

Is the W Trek Worth It?

The W Trek is not for everyone–it is a challenging hike, especially if you bring your camping gear and food. But it’s very doable, and the views are well worth it. It is an excellent option if you want to see the Torres del Paine National Park and its awesome scenery and experience a most memorable outdoor adventure experience. 

Can You Do the W Trek Without a Guide?

Doing the W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park is possible without a guide. Many hikers do the trek independently to have more flexibility and control over their itinerary, pace, and budget. However, it’s important to be well-prepared for the trail conditions and safety, have good navigation tools, and plan for accommodation. 

While a guide can offer a range of benefits, it is possible to do the W Trek independently with proper planning and preparation. 

Remember that you need to hire a guide if you’re hiking in the winter season.

How To Stay Safe During Your Hike In W Trek Patagonia

Here’s a list of safety tips for hiking the W Trek in Patagonia:

• Prepare for the Weather: The weather in Patagonia can be unpredictable. Pack layers of clothing, including waterproof and windproof gear.
• Use Sturdy Footwear: Wear broken-in hiking boots with good grip to handle rocky paths and potentially slippery conditions.
• Pack Essentials: Include a map, compass, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Always carry enough water and snacks.
• Plan Your Route: Know the trail route, estimated times between points, and have a clear itinerary.
• Stay on Marked Trails: The W Trek is well-marked, but staying on the trail is crucial for both safety and environmental protection.
• Start Early: Begin your hikes early to maximize daylight hours and avoid rushing near dusk.
• Carry a First Aid Kit: Be prepared for minor injuries with bandages, antiseptic, and any personal medications.
• Be Wildlife Aware: Know how to handle encounters with local wildlife; keep a safe distance.
• Respect the Environment: Stick to Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the natural surroundings.
• Adjust to Altitude: Give yourself time to acclimate if coming from sea level to avoid altitude sickness.

Additionally, consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing, which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!

Conclusion – W Trek Patagonia

You will not regret a trip to the W Trek in Patagonia.

The views in the W Trek are amazing; the trails are well-maintained and easy to follow. There is plenty of food and water available along the way. The route is also very popular, so you will likely see other trekkers. 

With a thoroughly researched and well-thought travel plan, exploring the W Trek in Patagonia can be a breeze and a trip you will never forget.

---

Your Ultimate Travel Guide & Booking Resources

Related read:

• A Guide To 17 Best Hikes in South America – For New & Experienced Hikers
• The Ultimate Patagonia Hiking Guide: Explore the Best Trails and Landscapes