W Trek in Torres del Paine

Treks

SUMMARY

5 Days

Patagonia, Chile

Explore the Short W Trek in Torres del Paine

The Short W Trek in Torres del Paine is an ideal option for travellers short on time or seeking a private experience. Over five incredible days, this condensed version of the iconic 7-day W Trek lets you explore the park’s most breathtaking highlights. Enjoy the adventure with comfort and style while immersing yourself in the raw beauty of Patagonia.

Discover the Natural Wonders of Torres del Paine

Start your journey surrounded by the stunning landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park. Marvel at the soaring granite towers that give the park its name. Hike along the picturesque Cuernos del Paine and witness the dramatic scenery of the Francés Valley. Traverse trails that lead you to captivating views of towering mountains, ancient glaciers, and pristine lenga forests. As you navigate toward Gray Glacier, spot native wildlife such as guanacos, foxes, and even elusive pumas roaming the expansive pampas.

Stay in Sustainable Comfort at EcoCamp Patagonia

This trek balances adventure with relaxation, offering accommodations in a cosy Refugio or camping site for one night during the trek. The experience is further enhanced by your stay at EcoCamp Patagonia, the first fully sustainable lodge in Torres del Paine National Park. Located in the heart of the wilderness, EcoCamp features unique geodesic domes that provide a comfortable retreat with panoramic views of the park’s majestic landscapes. Guests can also upgrade to Superior, Suite, or Suite Loft Domes for additional luxury and comfort.

A Trek for All Seasons

Whether you choose to embark on the W Trek during Patagonia’s summer or winter, the park’s ethereal beauty will captivate you. From the deep blue glaciers to the hauntingly beautiful forests, Torres del Paine is a sanctuary of nature that promises unforgettable memories. The Short W Trek offers the perfect way to experience this world-renowned destination, combining thrilling hikes, breathtaking scenery, and sustainable comfort.

HIGHLIGHTS

Experience the Iconic Highlights of Torres del Paine: Visit must-see landmarks such as Gray Glacier, the French Valley, and the breathtaking base of the Towers.
Expert Guidance Throughout Your Journey: Trek with highly experienced guides who bring the landscapes to life and ensure a safe, unforgettable adventure.
Immerse Yourself in Stunning Scenery: Enjoy turquoise lakes, roaring rivers, lush forests, and awe-inspiring glaciers on every trail you explore.
Capture Astonishing Views: Marvel at the dramatic Paine Massif and take advantage of endless opportunities for incredible photos along the way.
Stay at EcoCamp Patagonia: Relax at the world’s first fully sustainable geodesic dome hotel, offering comfort and panoramic views in the heart of the park.
A Trek for All Seasons: Experience the raw beauty of Patagonia in summer or winter, each offering unique landscapes and wildlife encounters.
Flexible Itineraries: Tailor your adventure with optional upgrades to more luxurious accommodations, ensuring a personalised and comfortable experience.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Punta Arenas/Torres del Paine

On arrival to Punta Arenas airport, you will be met by a local representative and transferred to EcoCamp Patagonia, located in the world-famous Torres del Paine National Park. En route, you will first stop in Puerto Natales, a small but lively town on the shores of “Seno de Ultima Esperanza”, where you will enjoy a hearty local lunch. After lunch, you will visit the Mylodon’s Cave, a massive prehistoric cave where the remains of a giant ground sloth were discovered in the 1890s. The journey through this area is very scenic, featuring many wild birds and wonderful Patagonian landscapes. The day ends with your arrival and, overnight stay, at EcoCamp Patagonia, nestled in the heart of Torres del Paine National Park and with a prime view of the majestic Torres. Sunset is usually around 11 pm during the summer months, meaning that there will still be enough daylight for you to admire the Patagonian steppe with its Guanacos and snow-peaked mountains once you arrive.
Overnight at EcoCamp Patagonia.

Day 2 Torres del Paine

The Paine massif’s heart: French Valley
After breakfast, you will take a short drive to Pudeto dock where you will board the catamaran to Pehoe. On arrival, begin the challenging trek to Valle Frances (French Valley), along a steep trail that leads to the very heart of the Paine Massif. A long walk will lead you to the hanging bridge over the French River, located at the foot of the south-east face of the Massif, where you will have fantastic views of the valley. Continue to ascend towards the upper section of the valley where you will be able to marvel at the extensive mass of the valley’s geological formations: Hoja (Blade), Mascara (Mask), Espada (Sword), Catedral (Cathedral), Aleta de Tiburón (Shark’s Fin) and the magnificent Fortaleza (Fortress). After your upward trek, you will pause for a picnic and relax for a while. This day’s trek will end as you descend through an undulating terrain of mixed grassland and light forest which will take you to Refugio Paine Grande. There’s also an optional trek to Mirador Britanico a beautiful viewpoint where you can get incredible pictures.
Trekking: 10 hours, (26 km)
Maximum altitude: 686m.
Overnight Refugio Paine Grande.

Day 3 Torres del Paine

Glacier Grey
Wake this morning and start your hike, along the shores of Lake Pehoe, to the northern side of the beautiful Lake Grey. You will feast on a picnic lunch before boarding the boat that sails right to the huge, crystalline facade of Glacier Grey, where you will have plenty of time to marvel at the calving glacier. From the southern end of Glacier Grey, you will transfer to EcoCamp. Subject to weather conditions, an alternative route to EcoCamp available.
Trekking: 4 hours, (11 km)
Maximum altitude: 244m
Overnight at EcoCamp Patagonia.

Day 4 Torres del Paine

Las Torres Trail
The goal for today will be to complete the most famous trekking trail in Torres del Paine National Park. You will walk from the campsite towards Hostería Las Torres before ascending to Ascencio Valley on the Tower’s eastern face. Mountain ridges, deep forests and small rivers line the scenic walk towards the valley. Your big challenge comes in the form of the steep moraine, a huge mass of boulders which will lead you to that iconic base-view of the towers. After a tough uphill climb, the Towers eventually come into full view, rising majestically before you, with the glacial lake visible below. Is there any better place in the world to have lunch. After feasting on the view and our picnic, you will backtrack along the same trail through Ascencio Valley and return to EcoCamp for a well-deserved dinner.
Trekking: 9 hours, (22 km)
Maximum altitude: 914m
Overnight at EcoCamp Patagonia.

Day 5 Torres del Paine/Punta Arenas

This morning, after breakfast, board a transfer back to Punta Arenas airport to your ongoing flight or, alternatively, let us arrange an Argentinean Patagonia extension and cross the border to El Calafate.