• Trekking

  • Accommodation

  • Self-Guided

  • Transfers

  • Boat Transfer

  • Meals

Hike the Classic W Circuit, Torres del Paine’s most iconic trekking route and one of Patagonia’s most renowned experiences.

Over the course of 5 days, you’ll explore some of the park’s most breathtaking landscapes, including Base Torres, the French Valley, and the Grey Glacier, hiking through mountains, turquoise lakes, forests, and glaciers.

This self-guided program combines adventure, nature, and organized logistics—including lodging, meals, and transportation—allowing you to enjoy the trek at your own pace while discovering the park’s main highlights.

Unlike shorter versions such as the W Express, the W Classic Circuit allows you to enjoy each stage at a more leisurely pace with a more balanced distribution of the hikes.

Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
Total distance: 80–85 km
Fitness level: Moderate – High
Type: Self-guided
Recommended minimum age: 10 years

Due to high demand for shelters and campsites within the park, especially between November and March, we recommend booking in advance.

You can secure your spot with a deposit, subject to availability.

Physical Demand
medium high
This is a physically demanding activity, involving 6 to 10 hours of hiking per day. It includes challenging sections such as the ascent to Base Torres and the Valle del Francés. It requires good physical fitness and prior experience in trekking or similar activities.
Experience
Experienced
Recommended for people with prior experience in hiking or endurance activities. This program is not suitable for beginners who are not physically fit.

Schedule

Days Physical Demand
high
A challenging hike lasting 8 to 10 hours (21 km), featuring ascents and a steep final stretch over rocky terrain. Good physical condition is required.
Duration of Activities
5.5 hours
Distance travelled during Activities
20.75 kilometers
Altitude Range
54-862 meters of height above mean sea level
Elevation
Gain: 991 meters
Loss: 977 meters
Un vehículo de Bus Sur circulando por una carretera panorámica en la región de Torres del Paine.
Check-In at the Puerto Natales Bus Station

After breakfast at the hotel, you must go to the bus terminal to take the 7:00 am bus (we recommend being at least 10 minutes before the departure) to go towards the Torres del Paine National Park.

Un vehículo de Bus Sur circulando por una carretera panorámica en la región de Torres del Paine.
Un autobús de la línea Bus Sur llegando a la entrada de Laguna Amarga de Torres del Paine.
Transfer from the Puerto Natales Bus Station to Portería Laguna Amarga

You will travel through beautiful landscapes until you reach the main entrance, Laguna Amarga, where it is necessary to register with CONAF (park rangers).

Un autobús de la línea Bus Sur llegando a la entrada de Laguna Amarga de Torres del Paine.
Un pequeño minibús que transporta a los excursionistas entre la Laguna Amarga y el sector de Las Torres.
Transfer to Sector Las Torres

Here you transfer with “Transporte Las Torres”, who will take you to the Welcome Center. You register at the Cerro Paine Reserve and, after about 5 minutes of walking, you will arrive at Torre Central where you must check in, either at the shelter or at the campsite, before starting your trekking.

Un pequeño minibús que transporta a los excursionistas entre la Laguna Amarga y el sector de Las Torres.
Un estrecho sendero de montaña que atraviesa el bosque de lenga en el valle del Ascencio.
Hiking trip to Las Torres Base

Trekking to the Base of the Torres is one of the most popular and exciting routes in the Torres del Paine National Park. This trek is considered medium to high difficulty. Although the trail is well defined, it features steep sections and uneven terrain that requires a certain level of physical fitness and hiking experience. The last section of the climb is especially challenging, with a steep climb over loose rocks.

Un estrecho sendero de montaña que atraviesa el bosque de lenga en el valle del Ascencio.
La entrada principal y el pórtico del Refugio El Chileno, un lugar de descanso popular para los excursionistas de la ruta W.
Cafeteria and Minimarket

Located 2 hours trek from Las Torres area, it’s on the route that leads to the Base of the Towers, is the perfect place to stay if your objective is to admire the Sunrise colours reflected on the towers. From this Refugio you may get to Las Torres Area or Refugio Los Cuernos.

La entrada principal y el pórtico del Refugio El Chileno, un lugar de descanso popular para los excursionistas de la ruta W.
The winding dirt path of the Chileno trail climbing through the Ascencio Valley toward the granite towers.

Difficulty: Medium - 20 km (8 hours) Initial altitude: 90 meters above sea level Maximum altitude: 870 meters above sea level The hike to Mirador Base Las Torres (or simply Mirador Torres) is one of the most iconic in Chilean Patagonia and probably the most popular within the Torres del Paine National Park. It allows you to have incredible views

The winding dirt path of the Chileno trail climbing through the Ascencio Valley toward the granite towers.
Las agujas verticales de granito de Base de las Torres se alzan imponentes contra el brillante cielo patagónico.

At the end of the journey, we will enjoy impressive views of the Torres del Paine, a set of three granite peaks that rise majestically above a glacial lake. It is a spectacular landscape and one of the iconic points of the park.

Las agujas verticales de granito de Base de las Torres se alzan imponentes contra el brillante cielo patagónico.
Una habitación compartida en el Refugio Torre Central con literas de madera resistentes y mantas abrigadas.
Return along the same path and accommodation in Las Torres Sector

Located in Las Torres area at the beginning of the W Circuit. From this place you have access to Base of the Towers trail and then continue to Los Cuernos and French Valley. Access is by the Laguna Amarga entrance to Torres del Paine, from where you may take a minibus that brings visitors to the sector.  

Una habitación compartida en el Refugio Torre Central con literas de madera resistentes y mantas abrigadas.

Days Physical Demand
medium
A day of moderate physical exertion, with a hike lasting between 4 and 5 hours (approx. 12 to 16 km, depending on the lodging). The route features well-marked trails with gentle slopes and uneven sections, skirting Lake Nordenskjöld. Ideal for maintaining a steady pace after the demanding day before.
Duration of Activities
4.5 hours
Distance travelled during Activities
16.67 kilometers
Altitude Range
24-238 meters of height above mean sea level
Elevation
Gain: 405 meters
Loss: 432 meters
Un sendero serpenteante que conecta los sectores Cuernos y Chileno, con vistas a las crestas de las montañas.

We’ll enjoy panoramic views of the majestic Cuernos del Paine and pass through beautiful valleys, rivers, and forests, making for a very scenic journey.

Un sendero serpenteante que conecta los sectores Cuernos y Chileno, con vistas a las crestas de las montañas.
Literas compartidas dentro de un acogedor dormitorio de madera en Refugio Los Cuernos.

Depending on availability, you stay at this place or the nearby campsite or move on to Camping y Domos El Francés.

Literas compartidas dentro de un acogedor dormitorio de madera en Refugio Los Cuernos.
Cabañas rústicas de madera y el albergue principal del Refugio Los Cuernos se encuentran escondidos bajo los enormes picos de granito.

This trail connects the Italian Camp, the gateway to the beautiful French Valley with the Los Cuernos camp area, which receives its name because it is located at the foot of the hills that protrude from the Paine Mountain Range as if they were horns. Also pass by the French camp which has a pleasant restaurant on the shores of

Cabañas rústicas de madera y el albergue principal del Refugio Los Cuernos se encuentran escondidos bajo los enormes picos de granito.

Days Physical Demand
high
A challenging hike (6–7 hours / 14–18 km) featuring steep climbs and uneven terrain toward the Francés Valley.
Duration of Activities
5.5 hours
Distance travelled during Activities
17.69 kilometers
Altitude Range
70-261 meters of height above mean sea level
Elevation
Gain: 571 meters
Loss: 571 meters
El exuberante y profundo cañón del Valle Francés está rodeado de imponentes picos y campos de hielo.
Optional hike through the French Valley to the British Viewpoint

Enjoy this 3.7-km round-trip route near Torres del Paine, Magallanes. It is generally considered a difficult trail. It is a very popular region for hiking, so you are likely to meet other people while you are in the area. One of the most beautiful valleys in the Torres del Paine National Park The French Valley Trek is part of the

El exuberante y profundo cañón del Valle Francés está rodeado de imponentes picos y campos de hielo.
Una vista panorámica desde las alturas, en el corazón del Valle Francés, en el Mirador Británico, rodeado de imponentes paredes de granito.

From the Mirador you have a panoramic view of the different peaks of the Paine massif. From this place we descend along the same path to the Italian sector.

Una vista panorámica desde las alturas, en el corazón del Valle Francés, en el Mirador Británico, rodeado de imponentes paredes de granito.
El sendero panorámico que conecta el refugio Paine Grande con el camping Italiano atraviesa llanuras abiertas y bosques.

We will enjoy panoramic views of the majestic Cuernos del Paine as we move away from them. Additionally, we will pass by Lake Nordenskjöld and walk along its shores, which provides beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The average duration of the trek is 4 to 6 hours, depending on the pace and the stops you make along the way.

El sendero panorámico que conecta el refugio Paine Grande con el camping Italiano atraviesa llanuras abiertas y bosques.
Modern mountain lodge architecture at Refugio Paine Grande under a clear sky in the Chilean Patagonia.
Accommodation at the shelter or nearby campsite

The shelter is located on the banks of the Pehoé Lake in the area of the old shelter Pehoé, off the south side of Cerro Paine Grande. It is part of the W circuit, and it is the ultimate base camp of Torres del Paine. It is a strategic place in the park, which is only accessible through the lake

Modern mountain lodge architecture at Refugio Paine Grande under a clear sky in the Chilean Patagonia.

Days Physical Demand
medium
Moderate physical effort. Includes longer walks or uneven terrain. Reasonable fitness recommended.
Duration of Activities
9 hours
Distance travelled during Activities
332 kilometers
Altitude Range
40-278 meters of height above mean sea level
Elevation
Gain: 847 meters
Loss: 940 meters
La ruta de senderismo entre Grey y Paine Grande ofrece vistas panorámicas del valle glaciar.

During the trek to Mirador Gray, we will obtain panoramic views of the imposing Gray Glacier, one of the most outstanding attractions of the park. Additionally, we will walk along the shoreline of Gray Lake, with spectacular views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The trek from Paine Grande to Mirador Gray has an approximate distance of 22 kilometers round trip. The average duration of the trek is 8 to 10 hours, depending on the pace and the stops you make along the way.

La ruta de senderismo entre Grey y Paine Grande ofrece vistas panorámicas del valle glaciar.
The warm and welcoming common area at Refugio Grey with wooden tables and local decor.
Accommodation in a shelter or nearby campsite

This shelter is few minutes away from the glacier Grey, which emerges from the Southern Ice Fields. It is on one end of the W trekking circuit, the best known and busiest of Torres del Paine National Park, and you can access it by walking from the Shelter Vértice Paine Grande, in catamaran from the Hosteria Lago Grey or from

The warm and welcoming common area at Refugio Grey with wooden tables and local decor.

Days Physical Demand
medium
A day of moderate physical exertion, featuring a hike of 4 to 4.5 hours (approx. 11 km) from Grey to Paine Grande. The route consists of trails with gentle to moderate inclines, making it ideal for a gradual conclusion to the circuit before returning by catamaran across Lake Pehoé and traveling by land to Puerto Natales.
Duration of Activities
2.5 hours
Distance travelled during Activities
10.6 kilometers
Altitude Range
-286 meters of height above mean sea level
Elevation
Gain: 352 meters
Loss: 374 meters
La ruta de senderismo entre Grey y Paine Grande ofrece vistas panorámicas del valle glaciar.

Discover this 22.2-km round-trip route near Torres del Paine, Magallanes. It is generally considered a difficult route, taking an average of 6 hours 28 minutes to travel. It is a very popular region for backpacking, camping and hiking, so you are likely to meet other people while you are in the area. The best time to visit this route is

La ruta de senderismo entre Grey y Paine Grande ofrece vistas panorámicas del valle glaciar.
El catamarán cruza las aguas turquesas del lago Pehoé en dirección a Paine Grande.
Pehoe Lake Navigation

At 6:35 p.m. you must take the catamaran that will take you back to Pudeto.

El catamarán cruza las aguas turquesas del lago Pehoé en dirección a Paine Grande.
Un autobús de la línea Bus Sur llegando a la entrada de Laguna Amarga de Torres del Paine.
Bus from Pudeto to the Puerto Natales Rodoviario

From Pudeto you must board the regular bus to Puerto Natales. Approximate time of arrival in Natales It's 9:30 p.m.

Un autobús de la línea Bus Sur llegando a la entrada de Laguna Amarga de Torres del Paine.
Un vehículo de Bus Sur circulando por una carretera panorámica en la región de Torres del Paine.
Back on the Puerto Natales Bus Station

When you are at the Puerto Natales Bus Terminal, remember to take care of your belongings, especially during busy times. Pay attention to bus arrivals, as most terminals do not provide real-time arrival information. Several bus companies, such as Buses Pacheco, Bus Sur, Buses María José, Buses Fernández, and Buses Cootra, operate from this terminal. The terminal also offers several

Un vehículo de Bus Sur circulando por una carretera panorámica en la región de Torres del Paine.

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Reviews

Lucy ec Jan 21, 2026

"W circuit was a lifetime experience. Good facilities at Central/Cuernos. Negative: Inefficient meal organization at PaineGrey, cold food, and poor water pressure in showers."

Bahadır tr Mar 10, 2025

"Saw an avalanche at Mirador del Frances. Nothing negative."

Stefano it Feb 5, 2025

"Organization and schedule were excellent."

Maartje nl Dec 12, 2024

"Beautiful miradores and great hiking. Two of the lunch sandwiches were not very tasty (lacked salt/spiciness)."

Included

  • Round Trip Bus Tickets Puerto Natales – Torres del Paine
    Round trip in regular shared service without a guide.
  • Shared transfer between Laguna Armaga and Sector Las Torres
  • 1 night accommodation in Central Sector
    Camping includes: tent and mountain sleeping bag and insulating mat. Shelter includes: armed bed or single bed (with sleeping bag).
  • 1 night in French Sector or Cuernos
    (Depending on availability) Camping includes: tent and mountain sleeping bag and insulating mat. Shelter includes: armed bed or single bed (with sleeping bag).
  • 1 night in Sector Paine Grande
    Camping includes: tent and mountain sleeping bag and insulating mat. Shelter includes: armed bed or single bed (with sleeping bag).
  • 1 night in Sector Grey
    Camping includes: tent and mountain sleeping bag and insulating mat. Shelter includes: armed bed or single bed (with sleeping bag).
  • Ticket for W circuit trails
    • Typical duration: 4 to 5 days. • Type of visit: Multi-day trek through the park's main valleys. • Areas included: Base Torres, Valle del Francés, Paine Grande, Grey Glacier. • Permitted activities: Long-distance trekking and overnight stays in refuges or campsites. • Key requirement: Confirmed accommodation reservations within the park. • Recommended profile: Trekkers with intermediate experience and prior planning.
  • Full board (breakfast, box lunch, and dinner)
  • Expert advice and coordination
    Personalized guidance and coordination of your experience via phone, email, webchat, WhatsApp, and scheduled video calls.
  • Booking Fee – Reservation Management
    Administrative costs associated with managing and confirming your reservation, including payment processing and coordinating services with local operators.

Not Included

  • Medical, accident or travel insurance

General Conditions

Restrictions and Recommendations

  • This program is not recommended for children under 10 years of age.
  • Passengers over 70 years old must present a medical certificate stating they are in adequate physical condition for the program's activities, ensuring a pleasant experience for everyone.
  • Passengers must be able to carry their personal belongings for the duration of the program.
  • We recommend the use of 40 liter backpacks.
  • We offer custody in Puerto Natales for those who wish to leave their luggage.

Recommendations for Trekking

  • Bring extra clothes inside the dry bag (socks, first layer, quick-drying pants).
  • Use of backpacks to transport food and the aforementioned elements. (One backpack per passenger with a minimum capacity of 15 liters is recommended).
  • Inform physical condition at the time of carrying out the activity (recent fractures or injuries, allergies, recent or ongoing medical treatments, drug dependence, etc.).

Pricing

Per Person Price for Chileans and Residents Price for non-resident Foreigners
Camping in Single CL$ 1 499 000 US$ 2 277
Camping in Double CL$ 1 123 000 US$ 1 707
Refuge CL$ 1 176 000 US$ 2 070

Commercial Conditions

Cancellation Policies

  • Cancellations with 91 days or more before arrival: 90% refund.
  • Cancellations between 90 and 71 days before arrival: 80% refund.
  • Cancellations with 70 days or less before arrival are not eligible for a refund.

Other Conditions

  • For groups of more than 15 people, special conditions may apply regarding payment amounts, cancellation deadlines, and refund percentages. These conditions will be communicated in advance at the time of booking and will be defined on a case-by-case basis, depending on the characteristics of the group.

Our apply on everything not mentioned before.

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Classic W Circuit Trek
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    Frequently Asked Questions

    The W Classic Circuit lasts 5 days and 4 nights. During the program, travelers visit the main highlights of the W Circuit inside Torres del Paine National Park, including Base Torres, the French Valley, Paine Grande and Grey Glacier.

    The duration of the circuit is defined by the program itinerary and the logistics of accommodation, transfers and hikes inside the park.

    This program visits the main highlights of the W Circuit: Base Torres, the French Valley, Paine Grande and Grey Glacier. Along the route, travelers experience mountain trails, lakes, forests, viewpoints and some of the most iconic landscapes of the Paine Massif.

    The W Classic Circuit has a medium to high physical difficulty level. It is recommended for travelers in good physical condition who are used to walking for several hours on mountain trails. Some days include long hikes, uneven terrain, elevation gain and changing weather conditions.

    You do not need to be an expert trekker, but it is important to have a good level of fitness and be prepared for several hours of walking each day. Previous experience in long hikes or mountain trails is recommended, especially to enjoy the circuit safely and comfortably.

    The W Classic Circuit can be done in a self-guided or guided format, depending on the selected program, travel date and park conditions.

    During the winter season, from April 27 to August 30, CONAF requires visitors to be accompanied by an authorized guide for activities on the W Circuit and the Base Torres trail. This measure is intended to improve visitor safety during a season with more demanding weather conditions, fewer daylight hours and possible trail restrictions.

    The most popular season is from October to April, when there are more daylight hours, greater availability of services and better general conditions for trekking.

    During winter, the landscape is especially beautiful and less crowded, but weather conditions are more demanding and some routes may require an authorized guide or be subject to operational restrictions.

    Yes. The W Circuit requires confirmed accommodation inside the park, either in refuges, campsites or other available options depending on the program.

    During high season, availability can sell out months in advance, so early booking is strongly recommended.

    Yes. The W Classic Circuit includes the entrance fee to Torres del Paine National Park, so you do not need to purchase it separately.

    Our team will manage this access as part of the program coordination, according to your travel dates and the required booking information. At the park entrance, you must carry your passport or identity document, as the ticket is personal and may be requested at the entrance gate.

    We recommend bringing layered technical clothing, a waterproof jacket, trekking shoes that have already been worn, gloves, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, personal documents, snacks, a headlamp and a comfortable backpack.

    Weather in Patagonia can change several times during the day, so proper equipment is essential.

    Cell phone signal is limited or unavailable in many areas of the circuit. We recommend downloading your itinerary, maps, vouchers and important documents before entering the park.

    It is also important to inform someone about your route and follow the instructions provided by the program, park rangers and/or authorized guides.

    No. Free camping is not allowed inside Torres del Paine National Park. Overnight stays are only permitted in authorized areas and with confirmed reservations.

    Camping outside designated campsites or making fire inside the park is strictly prohibited.

    Weather in Torres del Paine is variable and can change quickly. The program usually operates with moderate rain, wind or cold, as long as conditions allow visitors to walk safely on the authorized trails.

    In case of severe weather, such as strong winds, snow, ice, heavy rain, poor visibility or preventive trail closures, some sections of the itinerary may be modified, delayed or suspended for safety reasons.

    In all cases, the final decision will depend on park conditions and the instructions of the local operator, authorized guides and/or park rangers. Passenger safety is always the priority.

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