So as part of our honeymoon (which is going to Antarctica in February), I thought…I’m already in South America, I should check another thing off my bucket list: Hiking in Patagonia! So…I’m doing it – I am hiking the famous W Trek in Torres Del Paine National Park.
Do you want to join us?! The trip starts on January 27, 2024 in Chile with G Adventures (and there are limited spots available). If so, you’re in for an amazing adventure!
The W Trek is one of the most iconic hikes in the world, and it’s easy to see why. The trek takes you through some of the park’s most stunning scenery, including towering granite peaks, turquoise lakes, and glaciers.
What to expect
Day 1 Puerto Natales: Arrive in Puerto Natales and check into your hotel. Puerto Natales is the entrance way to Torres del Paine National Park. During the day, explore the town, eat a hearty meal for energy, and rest well for the 4-day hike ahead. Get any last-minute shopping done in Puerto Natales, and rent all equipment needed for the hike.
Day 2 Puerto Natales/Laguna Azul Camp: Hop on a private transfer and enjoy the two and a half hour drive to the entrance of Torres del Paine National Park. Stop at the Welcome Center and get ready to start the trek. Hike through dense forest and mountain paths before making the ascent to the base of Las Torres. Hike about 4 hrs in and 4 hrs back. Then, transfer to the campsite at the end of the day for some spectacular food and time to reflect on the first leg of the journey.
Distance travelled: 22km (14 miles roundtrip)
Time: 7-9 hours.
Elevation gain: 750m (2,460 ft.)
Day 3: Laguna Azul Camp/Cuernos Camp: Wake up surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy breakfast with a view, pack your bag and jump in the van. Our drive today goes along the Paine river until we reach the Welcome Center in Torres del Paine NP. Be on the lookout to spot some wildlife! Once at the welcome center, meet the porters and continue hiking along the W route towards Cuernos Campsite. Stop at Nordenskjöld lake and enjoy the view before reaching Cuernos Camp.
Distance travelled: 12km (7.5 miles roundtrip)
Time: 4-5 hours.
Elevation gain: 175m (575 ft.)
Day 4:Cuernos Camp/Paine Grande Camp: Today hike to the French Valley lookout to see the imposing French glacier hanging over Paine Grande mountain. Take in the dramatic, contrasting greens and greys on the landscape and enjoy a 360 view from above. Head to Paine Grande Campsite after crossing an eerie and beautiful forest of dead trees.
Distance travelled: 18km (11.2 miles)
Time: 6-7 hours.
Elevation gain: 145m (350 ft)
Day 5 Paine Grande Camp/Puerto Natales: The final day of the W Trek leads to Grey Lake and the lookout point for Grey Glacier. Gaze off into the distance admiring the scale of this immense glacier. Hike back to Lake Pehoé and finish by taking a picturesque ferry ride across the lake enjoying the sense of accomplishment before returning to Puerto Natales for the night.
Distance travelled: 11km (7 miles)
Time: 4 hours
Elevation gain: 400m (1,315 ft)
Day 6 Puerto Natales: Depart at any time! (We are heading to Santiago, Chile for a couple nights to explore before heading to Buenos Aires!)
Is this trip right for you?! Highly recommend to consider this trip if you are:
- Looking for a challenging and rewarding hike with beautiful scenery
- Interested in seeing some of the most iconic landmarks in of Torres del Paine National Park, such as the Paine Towers and Grey Glacier
- Are in good physical condition and have some hiking experience
- Comfortable camping!
If you are interested in learning more or want to join our trip (or go on different dates), reach out to me! G Adventures has many other trip destination options, so happy to help you plan your next adventure!
Upcoming Hosted Trips:
- Hiking the Torres del Paine – W Trek in Patagonia – January 2024
- Antarctica Cruise – February 2024
- Greece and Croatia Adults Only Cruise
