Chile Patagonia Torres del Paine W Trek Hiking Tour
Patagonia's Most Iconic Hut-to-Hut Trek
- Available: January, February, March, April, October, November, December
- Activity: Level 4
- Accommodations: Comfortable Hotels, Rustic Lodging
Highlights
- Experience the legendary W Trek, covering 40 miles on this well paced one-week itinerary
- Hike from Grey Glacier, up the French Valley, beneath the Horns, and to the base of the Towers
- Stay in a mix of perfectly located hotels and sought-after wilderness lodging, close to trailheads
Itinerary
Arrive in Puerto Natales
Day 1
Arrive at Teniente Julio Gallardo Airport in Puerto Natales, Chile. This welcoming town hugs the shores of Seno Ultima Esperanza (Last Hope Sound) with the snowcapped Andes in the distance. You will be transferred to your accommodation and have the rest of the day to rest or explore on your own before meeting up with your guide and group to discuss your W Trek adventure and get to know each other over a welcome dinner.
Accommodation: Remota Patagonia Lodge
Transportation: 20-minute private van transfer
Meals: Dinner
Cross the Patagonian Steppe to Torres del Paine National Park
Day 2
Travel to Torres del Paine National Park, watching the landscape unfold in vast grasslands where the chances of spotting wild guanacos are high. As you near the park, you may see the jagged peaks of the Paine Massif. Head out on a scenic hike from Laguna Verde to Rio Paine, winding through forests of lenga and coigue—a gentle introduction to Patagonia's terrain and native flora with impressive views of Paine Grande. Your accommodation this evening is a comfortable hotel near the southern shore of Lago Grey, with views across the water. Get a good night's rest before the trek begins!
Accommodation: Hotel Lago Grey
Activity: 4-5 hours/8 miles hiking with 1,000' elevation gain & 1,000' elevation loss
Transportation: 2-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy Glacier Views & Begin the W Trek
Day 3
Begin early with a catamaran journey across Lago Grey, navigating past floating ice toward the immense face of Grey Glacier, part of the massive Southern Patagonia Ice Field. After taking in this blue wall of ice, disembark and start your trek along the famed W route. The trail traces the lake's edge, with views of rippling waters and rugged Paine Grande above, as you move away from the glacier. You've completed the first stage of your trek, and your space has already been reserved at a refugio on Lake Pehoe, where simple comforts and unforgettable views create a true wilderness experience at the heart of the park.
Accommodation: Refugio Paine Grande
Activity: 4 hours/7.5 miles hiking with 1,200' elevation gain & 1,200' loss
Transportation: 45-minute catamaran cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek into the Magnificent French Valley
Day 4
Follow the route deep into the dramatic French Valley, one of the most iconic landscapes in Patagonia. Hike beneath the imposing slopes of Paine Grande, gradually ascending into a natural amphitheater surrounded by hanging glaciers. As you climb, the jagged granite horn shapes of the Cuernos del Paine come into full view, their dark caps contrasting with lighter rock below. At the lookout, take in spectacular panoramas of glaciers, peaks, and cascading icefalls. After soaking up the views, descend to your remote cabins tucked by a waterfall beneath the Cuernos. Here, the sounds of rushing water and the sunset glow on rock faces create a memorable evening in the Patagonian wilderness.
Accommodation: Cabanas de los Cuernos
Activity: 8-9 hours/12 miles hiking with up to 2,800' elevation gain & 2,800' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Marvel at Los Cuernos Horns & Glacial Lago Nordenskjold
Day 5
Start hiking at a relaxed pace, taking the Paso Los Cuernos (Trail of the Horns) over gently rolling terrain with the famed spires towering above. Trace the northern shore of Lago Nordenskjold, where glacial sediments turn the lake milky white and turquoise blue. Follow forested paths and gravely shores, catching magnificent views of the untamed landscape of the Paine Massif. Hike out across open, golden steppe with chances to spot soaring condors before reaching your comfortable lodging in an ideal location at the Las Torres trailhead.
Accommodation: Hotel Las Torres-Torres del Paine National Park
Activity: 5 hours/8 miles hiking with 1,400' elevation gain & 1,400' loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike to the Base of the Majestic Torres del Paine
Day 6
Get an early start for an all-day hike to the base of the famed towers for which this park is named: 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 steep final climb up a boulder field, you are rewarded with one of the most stunning views in the world; the iconic granite towers rise dramatically above a glacial lake, their sheer faces reflected in the water below. Take time to absorb this extraordinary setting before retracing your steps, enjoying a packed lunch along the way.
Accommodation: Hotel Las Torres-Torres del Paine National Park
Activity: 9 hours/11.5 miles hiking with 3,400' elevation gain & 3,400' loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Depart from Puerto Natales
Day 7
After an early breakfast, return to Puerto Natales, traveling once more across the Patagonian plains. Leaving the park behind, take in final views of open steppe, distant peaks, and the vast southern sky while reflecting on days spent hiking among glaciers, lakes, and towering granite spires. Arrive in time for afternoon flights to Santiago to connect with onward flights.
Transportation: 3-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast
Why Travel With Us?
Since our first scouting trips in the 1970s, MT Sobek has been building connections and expertise to ensure this multi-faceted adventure runs seamlessly.
This exceptional 7-day trip follows the classic W Trek without needing to camp. You'll stay in comfortable hotels and coveted wilderness lodging perfectly positioned close to the trail.
Your Patagonia journey is fully guided and supported by porters, led by a seasoned MT Sobek Patagonia expert who knows every inch of this region.
Know Before You Book
While most nights of this trip are spent in hotels, two of the nights on the W Trek are in rustic wilderness lodging—the best on the trail!—with shared bathroom facilities. The first night is in a classic refugio where you'll stay in a private twin room with bunk beds for two people, and the second, in simple cabins with twin beds, gorgeous views, and a woodburning stove.
Dates & Prices
Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.
The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates youโll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.
2027
- Jan 20 - 26, 2027$7,995 price per person dbl occ
Optional:+$2,000 Single OccupancyAvailable - Feb 13 - 19, 2027$7,995 price per person dbl occ
Optional:+$2,000 Single OccupancyAvailable - Mar 17 - 23, 2027$7,995 price per person dbl occ
Optional:+$2,000 Single OccupancyAvailable
- Go Private
- Go Custom
- Inclusions
Go Private
Go Private with MT Sobek
Gather your favorite travel companionsโfamily, friends, colleagues, or clubโand enjoy an exclusive departure thatโs easy to book and completely unforgettable.
Private Trip RequestPrivate Trip Requirements
A 25% non-refundable deposit is required to confirm your private departure.
Minimum age for guests on this trip is 16 years old.
Choose Your Own Travel Dates
January, February, March, April, October, November, December
Private Trip Pricing: 2026
11 to 12 guests from $7,795 per person double occupancy
9 to 10 guests from $7,895 per person double occupancy
7 to 8 guests from $7,995 per person double occupancy
5 to 6 guests from $8,095 per person double occupancy
4 guests from $8,295 per person double occupancy
3 guests from $9,495 per person double occupancy
2 guests from $10,895 per person double occupancy
Optional:
$2,000 Single Occupancy
Private Trip Pricing: 2027
11 to 12 guests from $7,795 per person double occupancy
9 to 10 guests from $7,895 per person double occupancy
7 to 8 guests from $7,995 per person double occupancy
5 to 6 guests from $8,095 per person double occupancy
4 guests from $8,295 per person double occupancy
3 guests from $9,495 per person double occupancy
2 guests from $10,895 per person double occupancy
Optional:
$2,000 Single Occupancy
*Seasonal rates may apply.
*Trip pricing on the website is provided as an estimate and is subject to change based on rates at the time of request and seasonality.
Go Custom
Create Your Very Own Adventure
Dreaming of a trip designed just for you?
- Our award-winning travel experts craft custom adventuresโperfect for families, couples, and and groups.
- Enjoy insider access, expert guides, and decades of on-the-ground experience. Since 1969.
Custom Trip Details
- This is a sample itinerary. Let us work with you to perfect an adventure tailored specifically to you.
- Deposit: A 25% non-refundable deposit is required once your itinerary is confirmed.
When to Start Planning
Plan ahead for the best experience.
- Early planning secures preferred accommodations, top guides, and the widest range of activities.
- Ideal planning window: 6+ months before travel
- Short-notice trips (under 3 months): Availability may be limited
Travel Dates
January, February, March, April, October, November, December
Let's start designing your adventure!
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
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.
โRoโ 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 photographerโwith 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.
Andrรฉ 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, Andrรฉโs love for nature and respect for the mountains is infectious to all who travel with him.
Cristian S.
Cristian was born and raised in Punta Arenas Patagonia, Chile. With such spectacular wilderness in his backyard, it's no wonder he quickly developed a curiosity for the beautiful natural world that surrounded him. His passion led to his career, and he now has more than 25 years of outdoor leadership under his belt. Christian guides numerous activities, including horseback riding, trekking, and kayaking. He loves sharing his backyard with others, and we're confident that you'll be captivated by his stories. From local flora and fauna to Chilean history and culture, Cristian is extremely knowledgeable about this region of the world. Cristian currently lives in Santiago, Chile where you can find him when he isn't out exploring.
Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 4. Moderate to strenuous hiking with up to 12 miles 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 2
4-5 hours/8 miles hiking with 1,000' elevation gain & 1,000' elevation loss
Day 3
4 hours/7.5 miles hiking with 1,200' elevation gain & 1,200' loss
Day 4
8-9 hours/12 miles hiking with up to 2,800' elevation gain & 2,800' elevation loss
Day 5
5 hours/8 miles hiking with 1,400' elevation gain & 1,400' loss
Day 6
9 hours/11.5 miles hiking with 3,400' elevation gain & 3,400' loss
*Mileage and elevation change information is approximate and may vary slightly depending on trail conditions, weather, and route adjustments, and the guideโs discretion.
Accommodations
A range of lodging, from scenic mountain cabins and one dormitory to comfortable hotels with modern amenities.
Weather
Expect extreme weather conditions that can change from one moment to the next. Be prepared for everything, especially strong winds and sun.
FAQs
Your trip leader or another MT Sobek representative will wait for you in the Puerto Natales Airport arrival area then take you to your hotel.
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.
Only the essentials. For the two nights on the W Trek when you stay at simple wilderness lodging, you'll use a provided 13-liter stuff sack for overnight essentials which porters carry ahead for you; your main suitcase will be picked up at Hotel Lago Grey the morning of Day 3 and kept in secure storage until you arrive at Hotel Las Torres the afternoon of Day 5. The 13-liter stuff sack should contain only essentials: a fresh base layer, comfortable shoes to change into at the lodgings, personal toiletries, a headlamp, and essential medications. Please note that porters will not carry glass, books, or electronic devices.
Wi-Fi is available at the hotel in Puerto Natales; 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.
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.
As the weather changes so fast, it is advisable to dress in layers. A good waterproof jacket and warm layer beneath are a must.
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18 but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.