
Discover one of the most striking landscapes in Torres del Paine with the trek to Mirador Valle del Francés, a scenic hike set at the heart of the W Circuit. This excursion from Puerto Natales combines a land transfer, a catamaran crossing over Lake Pehoé and a route of roughly 22 km round trip through lakes, native forests and privileged views of the Paine Massif, the Cuernos del Paine and the Francés Glacier.
From the Italiano campsite the gradual ascent begins toward the main viewpoint, set at 490 m above sea level, where you take in 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 travellers 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
Hike duration: 8 hours approx.
Difficulty: Medium
Viewpoint altitude: 490 m above sea level
Location: Torres del Paine National Park
Format: Guided excursion
Included
- Transfer from accommodation in Puerto Natales.
- Transport to Torres del Paine National Park.
- Pudeto – Paine Grande – Pudeto catamaran ticket.
- Guide during the excursion.
- Guided trek to Mirador Valle del Francés.
- Return to Puerto Natales.
Not included
- Entrance to Torres del Paine National Park.
- Box Lunch (optional)
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 along Route 9. After approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes of travel, you reach the Laguna Amarga entrance 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 lasts around 25 minutes across Lake Pehoé, with views of the Paine Massif and the Salto Grande area.
Start of the trek
Upon arriving at the Paine Grande Refuge, the guide gives an introductory and preparation briefing before starting the hike. The trek covers approximately 22 km round trip, lasting close to 8 hours, with a medium difficulty. The trail runs along Lake Pehoé and Lake Sköttberg, offering views toward the Cuernos del Paine until reaching the Italiano Campsite.
Ascent to the French Valley
After a short rest, you begin a gradual ascent through a lenga forest alongside the French River. The route continues until reaching the first viewpoint, from where you get privileged views of the valley, the mountains and the glacier.
French Valley Viewpoint
At the main viewpoint there is a pause for rest, photographs and a box lunch. From this point you can observe 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 awaits 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 - Boat Trip
-
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
Included services
The programme includes a transfer from your accommodation in Puerto Natales, transport to Torres del Paine National Park, a catamaran ticket on the Pudeto – Paine Grande – Pudeto stretch, a guide during the excursion, the guided trek to Mirador Valle del Francés and the return to Puerto Natales once the activity is over.
Services not included
The programme does not include the 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 boots or shoes with good grip, layered clothing and a waterproof or windproof jacket.
It is also important to bring a hat, gloves, a neck gaiter or buff, sunglasses, sunscreen, plenty of water, snacks or food for the hike if it is not included, and a small backpack to carry your belongings along 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 all within the same 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 fitness, as it involves an extensive hike of roughly 22 km along mountain trails. It is not recommended for people with recent injuries, mobility difficulties, health conditions incompatible with prolonged hikes or low physical fitness.
Pricing
| Per Person | Price |
|---|---|
| Sin Box Lunch | CL$ 200 000 |
| Con 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.
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Mirador Valle del Francés Trek
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