• Trekking

  • Guide

  • Transfers

  • Boat Transfer

Discover one of the most striking landscapes in Torres del Paine with the trek to Mirador Valle del Francés, a scenic walk located in the heart of the W Circuit. This excursion from Puerto Natales combines land transfer, a catamaran crossing over Lake Pehoé and a route of approximately 22 km round trip through lakes, native forests and privileged views of the Paine Massif, the Cuernos del Paine and the Francés Glacier.

From Campamento Italiano begins the gradual ascent toward the main lookout, located at 490 m above sea level, from where you get an unforgettable panorama of the Francés Glacier, the southwest face of the Paine Massif and the Pehoé, Nordenskjöld and Toro lakes. An ideal experience for active travelers seeking an intense connection with Patagonian nature.

Technical information

Total duration: Full day
Departure: From accommodation in Puerto Natales
Estimated arrival time: 20:30 hrs
Trekking distance: 22 km round trip
Walking duration: 8 hours approx.
Difficulty: Medium
Lookout altitude: 490 m above sea level
Location: Torres del Paine National Park
Format: Guided excursion

Includes

  • Transfer from accommodation in Puerto Natales.
  • Transport to Torres del Paine National Park.
  • Catamaran ticket Pudeto – Paine Grande – Pudeto.
  • Guide during the excursion.
  • Guided trek to Mirador Valle del Francés.
  • Return to Puerto Natales.

Does not include

  • Entrance to Torres del Paine National Park.
  • Box Lunch (optional)
Physical Demand
Medium
Moderate physical effort. Includes longer walks or uneven terrain. Reasonable fitness recommended.

Itinerary

Departure from Puerto Natales

The tour begins with pickup from your accommodation in Puerto Natales to start the journey toward Torres del Paine National Park via Route 9. After roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes of travel, you reach the Laguna Amarga ranger station to complete the corresponding registration.

Boat ride to Paine Grande

You then continue toward the Pudeto sector, where you board the catamaran bound for Paine Grande. The crossing takes about 25 minutes across Lake Pehoé, with views of the Paine Massif and the Salto Grande sector.

Start of the trek

Upon arriving at the Paine Grande Refuge, the guide gives an induction and preparation briefing before the hike begins. The trek covers approximately 22 km round trip, lasting close to 8 hours with a moderate level of difficulty. The trail runs alongside Lake Pehoé and Lake Sköttberg, offering views of the Cuernos del Paine until you reach the Italiano Campsite.

Ascent to the French Valley

After a brief rest, you begin a gradual climb through a lenga forest along the French River. The route continues until you reach the first lookout, which offers privileged views of the valley, the mountains and the glacier.

French Valley Lookout

At the main lookout there is a pause for rest, photographs and a box lunch. From this point you can take in the French Glacier, the Paine Massif and the Pehoé, Nordenskjöld and Toro lakes.

Return to Puerto Natales

The return follows the same trail back to the Paine Grande Refuge. You then take the catamaran back to Pudeto, where the vehicle is waiting to return to Puerto Natales. The estimated arrival in the city is around 20:30 hrs.

Included

  • Transfers from/to Accommodation in Puerto Natales
    Available for the urban area of Puerto Natales.
  • Bilingual Guide spanish/english
    During excursions and departures mentioned in the itinerary
  • 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

  • Boat Trip
  • Medical, accident or travel insurance

General Conditions

Included services

The program includes transfer from your accommodation in Puerto Natales, transport to Torres del Paine National Park, catamaran ticket on the Pudeto – Paine Grande – Pudeto section, guide during the excursion, guided trek to Mirador Valle del Francés and return to Puerto Natales at the end of the activity.

Services not included

The program does not include entrance to Torres del Paine National Park, meals —unless expressly stated in the booking—, tips or personal expenses.

Recommendations

To enjoy this excursion comfortably and safely, we recommend bringing suitable trekking clothing, trekking shoes or sneakers with good grip, layered clothing and a waterproof or windproof jacket.

It is also important to bring a hat, gloves, neck gaiter or buff, sunglasses, sunscreen, enough water, snacks or food for the walk if it is not included, and a small backpack to carry your belongings during the route.

Keep in mind that the weather in Patagonia can change quickly, so it is essential to be prepared for wind, rain, cold or sun within a single day.

Important conditions

The excursion is subject to weather, operational and navigation conditions. Catamaran schedules may vary depending on the season and availability. The itinerary could be modified before or during the activity for safety reasons, park conditions, operational changes or instructions from the relevant authority.

This trek requires good physical condition, as it involves an extensive walk of approximately 22 km along mountain trails. It is not recommended for people with recent injuries, mobility difficulties, health problems incompatible with prolonged walks or low physical condition.

Pricing

Per Person Price
Without Lunch Box CL$ 200 000
With Lunch Box CL$ 232 000

Commercial Conditions

Cancellation Policies

  • Cancellations with 10 days or more before arrival: 90% refund.
  • Cancellations with 9 days or less before arrival are not eligible for a refund.

Our apply on this service.

Request with GreatChile

Mirador Valle del Francés Trek

    During the booking process we will request the following data per traveler: Full Name, Birth Date, Nationality, Passport Number, Mail, Allergies.

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