A Bucket-List Hiking Adventure in Torres del Paine & Los Glaciares
This is our most comprehensive hiking itinerary in Patagonia, combining 40 miles on the W route in Chile's Torres del Paine with the remote reaches of Argentina's Los Glaciares, all in the company of our expert Patagonia team. Get up close to the iconic jagged peaks, majestic glaciers, and pristine lakes of these two breathtakingly scenic national parks. Stay at comfortable centrally located hotels in the towns of Punta Arenas, El Calafate and El Chalten as well as highly-sought-after small wilderness lodgings that allow spectacular hiking opportunities that others aren't able to reach without the need to camp. This much-loved trip of a lifetime is the ultimate way to explore Patagonia!
For departures after November 1, 2024, call for details on our new itinerary.
This is our most comprehensive hiking itinerary in Patagonia, combining 40 miles on the W route in Chile's Torres del Paine with the remote reaches of Argentina's Los Glaciares, all in the company of our expert Patagonia team. Get up close to the iconic jagged peaks, majestic glaciers, and pristine lakes of these two breathtakingly scenic national parks. Stay at comfortable centrally located hotels in the towns of Punta Arenas, El Calafate and El Chalten as well as highly-sought-after small wilderness lodgings that allow spectacular hiking opportunities that others aren't able to reach without the need to camp. This much-loved trip of a lifetime is the ultimate way to explore Patagonia!
For departures after November 1, 2024, call for details on our new itinerary.
Trek the iconic "W" route in Chile's Torres del Paine National Park
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Take in spectacular vistas of Cerro Torre and Fitz Roy in Argentina's Los Glaciares National Park
[Description] => Take in spectacular vistas of Cerro Torre and Fitz Roy in Argentina's Los Glaciares National Park
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Be awestruck by sweeping views of the Perito Moreno Glacier with its 2,100-foot high wall of calving ice
Arrive at the airport in Punta Arenas, Chile and transfer to the hotel. In the early evening, gather with the group for a briefing on the adventure ahead, followed by a welcome dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel Cabo de Hornos-Punta Arenas Accommodation: Hotel Jose Nogueira
Meals: Dinner
Scenic Drive to Torres del Paine National Park
Day 2
After breakfast, travel across the Patagonian plains to the quiet fishing town of Puerto Natales on the shores of Seno Ultima Esperanza (Last Hope Sound). Stretch your legs a bit and have lunch before continuing on to Torres del Paine National Park and taking in your first spectacular views of the Paine Massif (weather permitting). There is also a very good chance of seeing guanacos — small cousins to the camel and llama — on the way to the park.
Accommodation: Hotel Las Torres-Torres del Paine National Park
Transportation: 6-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore Majestic Torres del Paine
Day 3
Get an early start for an all-day hike to the base of the Torres del Paine. Follow the Asencio River over a low pass into the Ascencio Valley, passing through beautiful beech forests and talus-covered slopes. After a final steep climb up a boulder field, arrive at a spectacular viewpoint that is one of the most scenic spots in the world, where the towers rise majestically before you and a glacial lake is visible below. Enjoy a packed lunch en route before returning to the hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel Las Torres-Torres del Paine National Park
Activity: 9 hours/11.5 miles hiking with 3,400' elevation gain & loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike below Cuernos del Paine
Day 4
Begin your trek deep into the park, hiking at a relaxed pace along the north shore of Lago Nordenskjold to Los Cuernos, following the Paso Los Cuernos trail beneath the jagged Cuernos ("horns") del Paine. The views are magnificent, including your first sighting of the Southern Patagonia Ice Field. Stay in cozy cabins right next to a waterfall on the most isolated spot of our journey — an excellent staging area for tomorrow's hike to the French Valley. The cabins also afford a prime position to view sunset hitting the horns, and the dark night sky is filled with stars.
Accommodation: Cabanas de los Cuernos-Torres del Paine National Park
Activity: 5 hours/8 miles hiking with 1,400' elevation gain & 1,600' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike through French Valley
Day 5
From our cabins below the Cuernos, hike gently rolling terrain along Lake Nordenskjold to the entrance of the French Valley, one of the most spectacular cirques in the Paine Range and the middle leg of the classic "W" route. We'll gain elevation as we hike into the valley, walking below the glaciers that descend from the massif's highest summit and marveling at the gray granite peaks of the Cuernos del Paine, topped with fantastical black slate "horns." After reaching the French Valley lookout with its awe-inspiring views, either turn back and head straight to our next accommodations at Refugio Paine Grande, or, weather and time permitting, continue further up the French Valley for additional views before making our way back down the valley and then onwards to the Refugio.
Accommodation: Refugio Paine Grande-Torres del Paine National Park
Activity: 8 hours/11 miles hiking with 1,350' elevation gain & loss or up to 10-12 hours/15 miles with 3,200' elevation gain & loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Take a Boat to Grey Glacier
Day 6
Arise early and hike along the Paine Grande Mountain towards the face of stunning Grey Glacier, at the southern end of the Southern Patagonia Ice Field. Enjoy a packed lunch en route before boarding a catamaran that takes us close to the front of the glacier and then down to the southern shore of the Lago Grey (Grey Lake), where our hotel for the night is located.
Accommodation: Hotel Lago Grey-Torres del Paine National Park
Activity: 4 hours/7.5 miles hiking with 1200' elevation gain & loss
Transportation: 45-minute catamaran cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel to Argentina & Explore El Calafate
Day 7
Depart Chile's Torres del Paine National Park and drive across the border into Argentina. (Please be prepared for delays of up to a few hours while crossing the border). Proceed over the flat grassland steppes to the town of El Calafate, located on the southern shore of an enormous glacial lake called Lago Argentino. El Calafate is the gateway to Perito Moreno Glacier and is a great town to explore. Your trip leader will recommend restaurants for dinner on your own tonight.
Accommodation: Hotel Posada Los Alamos-El Calafate
Transportation: 7-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Marvel at the Perito Moreno Glacier
Day 8
Enjoy a day trip to Los Glaciares National Park to see the renowned Perito Moreno glacier. At this very active glacier, a 200-foot-high headwall continually calves massive blocks of ice into the lake with a thunderous roar - an awesome spectacle of nature's power at work. Admire the amazing glacier from different viewpoints on a 2-mile guided footbridge walk. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant overlooking the glacier before returning to El Calafate for the remainder of the afternoon and evening at leisure.
Accommodation: Hotel Posada Los Alamos-El Calafate
Activity: 2 hours/2 miles walking with 350' elevation gain & loss
Transportation: 4-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Drive to Los Glaciares National Park & El Chaltén
Day 9
We continue our drive across the steppes and along the northern end of Lago Viedma, with the views getting better and better as we approach the mountains and glaciers of the Fitzroy and Cerro Torre ranges. Arrive at El Chaltén for lunch. Weather permitting, take a short hike to a scenic lookout, before continuing another half an hour to Laguna Condor.
Accommodation: Laguna Condor Cabanas
Activity: 1 hour/2 miles hiking with 400' elevation gain & loss
Transportation: 3-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike along the Rio Electrico to Piedra del Fraile and Lago Electrico
Day 10
From the trailhead at Rio Electrico Bridge, hike along the Rio Electrico Valley, which progresses gently uphill from west to east, and pass through a beautiful lenga forest to reach Piedra del Fraile, one of the first refuges in the area, protected from the winds and offering comfort to the world's most experienced climbers and mountaineers, as well as to trekkers arriving in the area for the first time. This less travelled path boasts impressive views of the north face of Fitz Roy and solitude, and the lenga forest is alive with the sounds of native birds. Wind conditions permitting, emerge back into open terrain and cross the boulder field of a glacial valley to reach the shores of Lago Electrico, fed by the Marconi Glacier. NOTE: some groups will transfer to Destino Sur in El Chalten this evening, spending one night at Laguna Condor and three nights at Destino Sur.
Accommodation: Destino Sur Hotel de Montana & Spa Accommodation: Laguna Condor Cabanas
Activity: 6-7 hours/11 miles hiking with 1,150' elevation gain & loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek to Laguna de Los Tres
Day 11
Another day, another inspiring day hike into Los Glaciares. A short transfer brings us back to the trail head at Rio Electrico Bridge, before setting out on an easy walk through a beautiful forest with impressive views of Piedras Blancas Glacier as well as the Fitz Roy, Saint Exupery and Poincenot Peaks. After passing Poincenot Camp, begin a steep climb up to Laguna de los Tres — a challenging effort, but worthwhile for its superb views of Fitz Roy and its hanging glaciers. At the top take in the beautiful surroundings before hiking back to El Chaltén via the secluded and very scenic Laguna Capri.
Accommodation: Destino Sur Hotel de Montana & Spa
Activity: 8-9 hours/13.5 miles hiking with 3,150' elevation gain & loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Follow Trails to Laguna Torre
Day 12
Embark on a long day hike into the park's interior. We walk through a varied landscape formed by glaciers and stop for commanding views of the south face of Cerro Torre — sought after by photographers and climbers the world over. Reach the pinnacle of our trek at Laguna Torre, a beautiful glacial lake set against the backdrop of Cerro Torre, with its iconic pointy spires and hanging glaciers.
Accommodation: Destino Sur Hotel de Montana & Spa
Activity: 7-8 hours/11 miles hiking with 1,800' elevation gain & loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Transfer to El Calafate and Depart
Day 13
Transfer back to El Calafate this morning, arriving in time for early afternoon flight departures to extend your adventure on your own or with one of our extensions in Argentina, or to begin your journey home.
MT Sobek pioneered commercial trekking in Patagonia in the 1970s, and our itinerary is the most comprehensive route available.
Our highly experienced MT Sobek leaders know every inch of this region, and ensure the logistics of this multi-faceted trip run seamlessly.
Stay in comfortable hotels, cozy cabins and remote mountain lodges - all perfectly located to allow spectacular hiking opportunities without needing to camp.
Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.
When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.
*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Andre L.
André is an accomplished mountaineer who has dedicated over 25 years to climbing and exploring the Peruvian and Patagonian Andes ranges. He grew up in central Chile and fell in love with Patagonia at first sight and made it his home for 20 years before recently moving to Chile's Araucania region. In over ten mountain expeditions in Patagonia, he accomplished many first ascents, and has climbed the Paine towers in Chile and Alpamayo in Peru. A very enthusiastic guide, André’s love for nature and respect for the mountains is infectious to all who travel with him.
Rodrigo B.
"Ro" was born in the Last Hope Province of Chile and grew up in Patagonia, where he developed a deep love for the outdoors. He has guided in Patagonia and Canada for more than 15 years, and is an accomplished hiker, kayaker, mountaineer, and photographer-with a keen eye for capturing the natural beauty of Patagonia. He is a certified Mountain guide and kayak instructor and has completed Wilderness Emergency Responder & Medical; (WFR NOLS-EASPA). Ro speaks English, Spanish, and conversational French.
Sergio F.
Sergio is a legendary trekking guide with over 40 years of experience and 300 trips to his name! Besides leading our expeditions in Ecuador, Bolivia, Peru, and Argentina's Aconcagua, he also loves to lead some of our more challenging treks in Nepal and Peru. His recent expeditions include leading our 50th Anniversary Base Camp Trek, Chile's Dientes de Navarino mountains, and an epic hiking adventure in the Dolomites. Sergio has acquired a loyal following, and is one of our most respected guides.
Luciano C.
Lucho lives in El Chalten, Argentina, at the base of the Fitz Roy Massif. He is a certified professional AAGM (Argentinean Association of Mountain Guides) mountain and trekking guide and for over 20 years has been involved in many types of outdoor expeditions in Patagonia and beyond. He has been to the summit of Cerro Fitz Roy, traversed the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, climbed in Bolivia's Cordillera Real, climbed in the Swiss Alps and in the Yosemite Valley of California. Lucho is also an avid skier, kayaker, and photographer.
Arrive at the airport in Punta Arenas, Chile and transfer to the hotel. In the early evening, gather with the group for a briefing on the adventure ahead, followed by a welcome dinner.
After breakfast, travel across the Patagonian plains to the quiet fishing town of Puerto Natales on the shores of Seno Ultima Esperanza (Last Hope Sound). Stretch your legs a bit and have lunch before continuing on to Torres del Paine National Park and taking in your first spectacular views of the Paine Massif (weather permitting). There is also a very good chance of seeing guanacos — small cousins to the camel and llama — on the way to the park.
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Begin your trek deep into the park, hiking at a relaxed pace along the north shore of Lago Nordenskjold to Los Cuernos, following the Paso Los Cuernos trail beneath the jagged Cuernos ("horns") del Paine. The views are magnificent, including your first sighting of the Southern Patagonia Ice Field. Stay in cozy cabins right next to a waterfall on the most isolated spot of our journey — an excellent staging area for tomorrow\'s hike to the French Valley. The cabins also afford a prime position to view sunset hitting the horns, and the dark night sky is filled with stars.
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Arise early and hike along the Paine Grande Mountain towards the face of stunning Grey Glacier, at the southern end of the Southern Patagonia Ice Field. Enjoy a packed lunch en route before boarding a catamaran that takes us close to the front of the glacier and then down to the southern shore of the Lago Grey (Grey Lake), where our hotel for the night is located.
Depart Chile\'s Torres del Paine National Park and drive across the border into Argentina. (Please be prepared for delays of up to a few hours while crossing the border). Proceed over the flat grassland steppes to the town of El Calafate, located on the southern shore of an enormous glacial lake called Lago Argentino. El Calafate is the gateway to Perito Moreno Glacier and is a great town to explore. Your trip leader will recommend restaurants for dinner on your own tonight.
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[ActivityHighlight] => Long hikes with support of porters in Torres del Paine and day hiking in El Chaltén. You will be hiking between 5 to 10 hours a day, mostly on steep and rocky terrain. The back-to-back days and challenging terrain can be taxing. Strong winds are common and weather can change drastically, causing temperatures to fluctuate rapidly. These conditions can affect both body and morale.
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Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 4. Long hikes with support of porters in Torres del Paine and day hiking in El Chaltén. You will be hiking between 5 to 10 hours a day, mostly on steep and rocky terrain. The back-to-back days and challenging terrain can be taxing. Strong winds are common and weather can change drastically, causing temperatures to fluctuate rapidly. These conditions can affect both body and morale. Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 3
9 hours/11.5 miles hiking with 3,400' elevation gain & loss
Day 4
5 hours/8 miles hiking with 1,400' elevation gain & 1,600' elevation loss
Day 5
8 hours/11 miles hiking with 1,350' elevation gain & loss or up to 10-12 hours/15 miles with 3,200' elevation gain & loss
Day 6
4 hours/7.5 miles hiking with 1200' elevation gain & loss
Day 8
2 hours/2 miles walking with 350' elevation gain & loss
Day 9
1 hour/2 miles hiking with 400' elevation gain & loss
Day 10
6-7 hours/11 miles hiking with 1,150' elevation gain & loss
Day 11
8-9 hours/13.5 miles hiking with 3,150' elevation gain & loss
Day 12
7-8 hours/11 miles hiking with 1,800' elevation gain & loss
Accommodations
A range of lodging, from scenic mountain cabins and one dormitory to comfortable hotels with modern amenities.
Recently renovated in modern European style, this large hotel offers comfortable, spacious rooms — some with sea views. Modern amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, cable TV and room service are provided. There is a restaurant on-site, but the flavors of Punta Arenas await just outside your door, as do museums and other attractions.
The simple, comfortable rooms come equipped with all the essentials, and have windows showcasing the awe-inspiring surroundings. Because of its remote location, the hotel has a small shop that provides some trekking equipment, snacks and toiletries. The on-site restaurant serves food that is authentic to the Patagonia region, featuring organic produce and beer from their own microbrewery.
Cabanas de los Cuernos-Torres del Paine National Park
Located at the base of Los Cuernos del Paine, these eight charming cabins offer spectacular views of Los Cuernos and Nordenskjöld Lake. After trekking through Torres del Paine, you'll undoubtedly be ready to recharge your battery with a warm meal and a good night's sleep in the cozy beds.
Refugio Paine Grande-Torres del Paine National Park
Located on the banks of Pehoé Lake, this remote mountain lodge is an ideal base camp for experiencing Torres del Paine. The dormitory rooms have comfortable bunks, as well as drawers to put away gear and a safety box if required. The on-site restaurant offers American cuisine, and the bar is a great place to exchange stories with fellow travelers.
Surrounded by the majestic beauty of this unique landscape, Hotel Lago Grey is the perfect base for discovering Torres del Paine National Park. The hotel has 60 spacious rooms, including 36 Superior rooms that have lake, mountain and glacier views. All rooms are warm and comfortable, with Wi-Fi (in common areas), safe, and a phone.
Posada Los Alamos is a grand red-bricked hotel, surrounded by soaring poplar trees, in the heart of El Calafate. It's 144 comfortable rooms, with either garden or mountain views, are pleasantly furnished and come with modern amenities. Choose to unwind with a game of golf or a treatment at the hotel's Humus Spa, and enjoy dinner at La Posta restaurant.
Located just steps from the main street of town yet close to trailheads, Destino Sur offers both convenience and an escape to nature. Each room is colorfully decorated and equipped with wooden furniture, a king-size bed, and lots of amenities. Indulge in a spa massage, or relax in the sauna or Jacuzzi.
These wilderness cabanas are located in a private forest setting about 10 miles north of El Chalten. The cozy timber lodge is built on the shore of Rio de Las Vueltas and boasts unique views of Fitz Roy's north face. The fabulous dining room exudes a warm feel, just right for those Patagonian nights.
Centrally located boutique hotel in front of the main square in Punta Arenas, featuring 22 simple but comfortable rooms inside a restored historic mansion. Modern amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, cable TV and room service are provided. There is a restaurant and bar on-site, but the flavors of Punta Arenas await just outside your door, as do museums and other attractions.
Weather
Expect extreme weather conditions that can change from one moment to the next. Be prepared for everything, especially strong winds and sun.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Nov
Dec
El Calafate
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
El Calafate
67
48
65
46
62
43
62
42
65
46
Torres Del Paine National Park
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Torres Del Paine National Park
68
45
66
45
62
42
62
42
65
45
FAQs
Who will meet me on arrival?
Our local staff will meet you outside of Punta Arenas Airport and transfer to your hotel.
Will I have electricity throughout the trip?
All hotels and lodges have electricity. Note that the electricity supply at Cabanas de los Cuernos and Refugio Paine Grande in Torres del Paine is generator-driven and is shut off from midnight to 6:00 am.
How much will I have to carry each day?
Your personal gear for the day (water bottle, jacket, rain gear and other personal items). For the two nights at the W-Route mountain lodges in Torres del Paine, porters will carry a stuff sack with your additional clothing and toiletries, and your larger suitcases will be kept in secure storage until you arrive at Hotel Lago Grey. Please note, porters will not carry glass, books or electronic devices.
Are there hot showers in Torres del Paine?
Yes, under normal circumstances you will have hot water 24 hours a day. Please note you will be sharing facilities on days 4 and 5.
What are the accommodations like?
You will be staying in the best available accommodation throughout the trip. Even in remote mountain conditions on days 4 and 5, MT Sobek guests have private sleeping accommodations and share only the bathroom/shower facilities (same-sex shared bathrooms).
Would you recommend trekking poles?
Yes. Trekking poles will assist with balance over rocky and uneven terrain, as well as alleviate pressure on your joints during ascents and descents.
What is the minimum age for this trip? FAQ
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.