Chile Patagonia W-Route Private Trekking Tour

Spectacular Wilderness Trails in Torres del Paine


Hike the famous W route, deep in the remote wilderness of southern Chile and experience the wondrous landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park. On this fully guided private adventure, you'll explore the spectacular French Valley, see blue-hued icebergs of majestic Glacier Grey, and be moved by mighty granite spires-soaring 8,000 feet above the surrounding grasslands. The huge expanse of the Southern Patagonia Ice Field is an inspiring wonderland for adventure trekkers looking to enjoy one of the world's top bucket-list routes.

7 Days

From: $5,995

Hike the famous W route, deep in the remote wilderness of southern Chile and experience the wondrous landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park. On this fully guided private adventure, you'll explore the spectacular French Valley, see blue-hued icebergs of majestic Glacier Grey, and be moved by mighty granite spires-soaring 8,000 feet above the surrounding grasslands. The huge expanse of the Southern Patagonia Ice Field is an inspiring wonderland for adventure trekkers looking to enjoy one of the world's top bucket-list routes.

Highlights


  • Trek 40 miles on the legendary W circuit on this achievable one-week itinerary-great for private groups!
  • Hike to the base of Cuernos del Paine, up the French Valley, and down towards Grey Glacier
  • Stay in a mix of perfectly located hotels, and simple mountain cabins and lodges

Chile Patagonia W-Route Trek Private Adventure

Start: Punta Arenas, Chile  End: Punta Arenas, Chile

Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

Itinerary


  • Arrive in Punta Arenas

    Day 1

    Arrive at the airport in Punta Arenas, Chile, meet your adventure guide and transfer to the hotel. In the early evening, meet up with your guide for a briefing on the adventure ahead. Enjoy a welcome dinner tonight.

    Accommodation: Hotel Cabo de Hornos-Punta Arenas

    Meals: Dinner

  • Scenic Drive to Torres del Paine National Park

    Day 2

    After breakfast, travel across the Patagonian plains to Torres del Paine National Park and take 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 Asencio 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

  • Depart from Punta Arenas

    Day 7

    After an early breakfast, return to Punta Arenas by private van to meet with your afternoon flight to Santiago and continue to your next destination.

    Transportation: 6-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast

Why Travel With Us?


  • MT Sobek has been hiking in Patagonia since we pioneered the route in the 1980s.

  • Hike the spectacular "W" route without needing to camp, instead staying in a mix of perfectly located hotels and simple mountain cabins and lodges.

  • Fully guided by a seasoned MT Sobek Patagonia guide who knows every inch of this region, and ensures the logistics of this multi-faceted trip run seamlessly.

Dates & Prices


  • Go Private
  • Go Custom
  • Inclusions

Go Private

Go Private


Gather your favorite travel companions to share an MT Sobek adventure on an easy-to-book Private departure.

Call or email us to get the ball rolling.

*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.


Looking for a private family adventure?


This trip can accommodate guests with a
minimum age of 16.

Private Trip Pricing:


2023 Pricing

7 to 8 guests from $6,195 per person double occupancy

5 to 6 guests from $6,995 per person double occupancy

4 guests from $7,795 per person double occupancy

3 guests from $9,195 per person double occupancy

2 guests from $9,595 per person double occupancy

2024 Pricing

7 to 8 guests from $6,195 per person double occupancy

5 to 6 guests from $6,995 per person double occupancy

4 guests from $7,795 per person double occupancy

3 guests from $9,195 per person double occupancy

2 guests from $9,595 per person double occupancy

*Seasonal rates may apply.

Additional Costs:


Private pricing excludes potential additional costs such as internal airfare, single supplement, or any park fees that may be required for the trip.

*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.

Make Your Own Dates in These Months


Go Custom

Create Your Very Own Adventure


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.

Start Planning

Inclusions

Price Includes


  • Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
  • All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
  • Snacks and water between meals
  • Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
  • Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
  • Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
  • Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
  • Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Baggage transfers and porterage

Price Does Not Include


  • International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
  • Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
  • Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
  • Travel Protection Program
  • Personal expenses

Contact An Expert


800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

Your Guides


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.

Rodrigo B.

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.

Andre L.

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.

Array
(
    [itinerary] => Array
        (
            [0] => Array
                (
                    [DayFrom] => 1
                    [DayTo] => 1
                    [Headline] => Arrive in Punta Arenas
                    [ActivityOverview] => 
                    [EstimatedLength] => 
                    [ActivityLevel] => 
                    [ItinBlock] => 

Arrive at the airport in Punta Arenas, Chile, meet your adventure guide and transfer to the hotel. In the early evening, meet up with your guide for a briefing on the adventure ahead. Enjoy a welcome dinner tonight.

[Breakfast] => 0 [Lunch] => 0 [Dinner] => 1 [Travel_Type] => [Quotation] => [Quotation_Attribution] => [Quotation_Location] => [Itinerary_Location] => [Latitude] => -53.141 [Longitude] => -70.895 ) [1] => Array ( [DayFrom] => 2 [DayTo] => 2 [Headline] => Scenic Drive to Torres del Paine National Park [ActivityOverview] => [EstimatedLength] => [ActivityLevel] => [ItinBlock] =>

After breakfast, travel across the Patagonian plains to Torres del Paine National Park and take 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.

[Breakfast] => 1 [Lunch] => 1 [Dinner] => 1 [Travel_Type] => 6-hour private van transfer [Quotation] => [Quotation_Attribution] => [Quotation_Location] => [Itinerary_Location] => [Latitude] => 50.9423 S [Longitude] => 73.4068 W ) [2] => Array ( [DayFrom] => 3 [DayTo] => 3 [Headline] => Explore Majestic Torres del Paine [ActivityOverview] => 9 hours/11.5 miles hiking with 3,400\' elevation gain & loss [EstimatedLength] => [ActivityLevel] => [ItinBlock] => 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 Asencio 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. [Breakfast] => 1 [Lunch] => 1 [Dinner] => 1 [Travel_Type] => [Quotation] => [Quotation_Attribution] => [Quotation_Location] => [Itinerary_Location] => [Latitude] => 50.9423 S [Longitude] => 73.4068 W ) [3] => Array ( [DayFrom] => 4 [DayTo] => 4 [Headline] => Hike below Cuernos del Paine [ActivityOverview] => 5 hours/8 miles hiking with 1,400\' elevation gain & 1,600\' elevation loss [EstimatedLength] => [ActivityLevel] => [ItinBlock] =>

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.

[Breakfast] => 1 [Lunch] => 1 [Dinner] => 1 [Travel_Type] => [Quotation] => [Quotation_Attribution] => [Quotation_Location] => [Itinerary_Location] => [Latitude] => 50.942326 S [Longitude] => 73.406788 W ) [4] => Array ( [DayFrom] => 5 [DayTo] => 5 [Headline] => Hike through French Valley [ActivityOverview] => 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 [EstimatedLength] => [ActivityLevel] => [ItinBlock] =>

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.

[Breakfast] => 1 [Lunch] => 1 [Dinner] => 1 [Travel_Type] => [Quotation] => [Quotation_Attribution] => [Quotation_Location] => [Itinerary_Location] => [Latitude] => 51.072439 S [Longitude] => 73.094007 W ) [5] => Array ( [DayFrom] => 6 [DayTo] => 6 [Headline] => Take a Boat to Grey Glacier [ActivityOverview] => 4 hours/7.5 miles hiking with 1200\' elevation gain & loss [EstimatedLength] => [ActivityLevel] => [ItinBlock] =>

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.

[Breakfast] => 1 [Lunch] => 1 [Dinner] => 1 [Travel_Type] => 45-minute catamaran cruise [Quotation] => [Quotation_Attribution] => [Quotation_Location] => [Itinerary_Location] => [Latitude] => 51.015469 S [Longitude] => 73.195480 W ) [6] => Array ( [DayFrom] => 7 [DayTo] => 7 [Headline] => Depart from Punta Arenas [ActivityOverview] => [EstimatedLength] => [ActivityLevel] => [ItinBlock] =>

After an early breakfast, return to Punta Arenas by private van to meet with your afternoon flight to Santiago and continue to your next destination.

[Breakfast] => 1 [Lunch] => 0 [Dinner] => 0 [Travel_Type] => 6-hour private van transfer [Quotation] => [Quotation_Attribution] => [Quotation_Location] => [Itinerary_Location] => [Latitude] => -53.141 [Longitude] => -70.896 ) ) [ActivityHighlight] => Moderate to strenuous hiking with up to 12 miles a day (and one day with option of up to 15 miles), 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. [Trip_Level] => 4 )

Activity Level


This trip is rated activity level 4. Moderate to strenuous hiking with up to 12 miles a day (and one day with option of up to 15 miles), 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

Accommodations


A range of lodging, from scenic mountain cabins and one dormitory to comfortable hotels with modern amenities.

Hotel Cabo de Hornos-Punta Arenas
Hotel Cabo de Hornos-Punta Arenas

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.

Hotel Las Torres-Torres del Paine National Park
Hotel Las Torres-Torres del Paine National Park

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
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
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.

Hotel Lago Grey-Torres del Paine National Park
Hotel Lago Grey-Torres del Paine National Park

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.

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
Punta Arenas 
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Punta Arenas
58
45
57
45
54
42
54
41
56
44
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?

Your trip leader or another MT Sobek representative will wait for you in the Punta Arenas Airport arrival area then take you to your hotel.

Can I walk in my low-ankle trail shoes?

It is not recommend that you hike in low-ankle shoes. The terrain is rocky, varied and uneven. You will appreciate your hiking boots with ankle support.

What will the porters carry?

Only the very essentials. For the two nights at the W-Route mountain lodges in Torres del Paine, porters will carry a small 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.

Will there be Wi-Fi or telephone access?

Wi-Fi is available at the hotel in Punta Arenas; there is also limited Wi-Fi access in public areas of the hotels and mountain refugios in Torres del Paine National Park. These remote locations in Torres del Paine rely on satellite internet that is sometimes slow and may vary throughout the day. While on the move during the day you will not have Wi-Fi access at all. There is no cell service in Torres del Paine National Park. Your MT Sobek guides will carry a satellite phone for emergencies.

Is it possible to accommodate special diets

Yes, but please consider that while in Torres del Paine provisions can be scarce. Please let us know about your dietary restrictions prior to the trip departure.

Is there special clothing we should bring?

As the weather changes so fast, it is advisable to dress in layers. Evenings can be chilly and a good wind/waterproof jacket is a must.

What is the minimum age for this trip?
The minimum age for this private trip is 16 years old.

Reviews from Trustpilot