Hike the Classic W Circuit in Torres del Paine, ending with a boat trip on Lake Grey III—one of the park’s most breathtaking experiences.
Over the course of 5 days, you’ll explore Patagonia’s main attractions: Torres Base, the French Valley, and the Grey Glacier, combining trekking with a boat trip among icebergs on Lake Grey.
Unlike other versions of the W, this program concludes with a boat trip, avoiding the return along the same trail and adding a unique experience in front of the glacier.
It includes lodging, meals, and transportation, allowing you to experience the circuit on your own with organized logistics.
Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
Distance: 70–80 km
Type: Self-guided
Technical level: No technical skills required
Minimum age: 10 years
Due to high demand, we recommend booking in advance.
You can secure your spot with a deposit, subject to availability of huts and campsites.
Schedule
Loss: 900 meters
Departure from the Hotel to the Bus Terminal
After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, you will head to the bus terminal. Make sure you arrive at least 10 minutes early before the bus leaves, scheduled for 7:00 am. This transportation will take you in the direction of the majestic Torres del Paine National Park, where you will immerse yourself in the beauty of impressive landscapes.
7:00 am - Bus Trip from Puerto Natales to the park entrance
Arrival at Torres Del Paine National Park
Your entry will be through the Laguna Amarga entrance, where you must register with the CONAF park rangers. Then, take "Transporte Las Torres" you arrive to register at the Las Torres Patagonia Welcome Center and, after a short 5-minute walk, arrive at Torre Central. Here, be sure to check-in for your shelter or campsite accommodation before starting your trek. Your adventure starts here!
Experience the Thrill of Torres del Paine!
You start the hike in the beautiful Ascencio Valley, surrounded by lush forests. On your ascent, you will enter a field of giant rocks that will take you to the iconic Torres Base viewpoint.
At 900 meters above sea level, you will face the three majestic granite towers and a dazzling glacial lake of a mesmerizing turquoise blue. This is the place where nature becomes a work of art at its finest.
Capture these moments in photos, enjoy a box lunch and get ready for an experience that will remain engraved in your memory as you return along the same path to Torre Central.
Loss: 300 meters
Prepare the trip
Start your day enjoying a delicious breakfast that will fill you with energy for the exciting day that awaits you. After breakfast, don't forget to request your box lunch, which will accompany you on your journey through the heart of the Torres del Paine National Park.
Trekking to Los Cuernos or Francés
Embark on an unforgettable walk that will take you to the deepest part of the park, where you will have the option of reaching the Los Cuernos Shelter or the French Dome. During your journey, you will witness natural beauty at its finest: you will cross crystalline streams, contemplate hanging glaciers descending from Mount Almirante Nieto at 2,670 meters high, and witness majestic condors soaring through the skies. As you go, you will follow the contour of the impressive Nordenskjöld Lake.
Closing of the day
Your destination will be the Los Cuernos Refuge or the French Dome, where you can relax and enjoy a night in the heart of nature.
Loss: 700 meters
Hike in the Frances Valley
Start your day early to explore the heart of Torres del Paine National Park. After breakfast, request your box lunch and embark on an exciting hike that will take you to the French Valley. During this adventure, you will enjoy beautiful Patagonian landscapes and explore the natural treasures of the region.
Explore the French Valley: Patagonian Wonders on the Road
Get ready for a day of unforgettable Patagonian landscapes. After approximately 2 hours of walking, you will reach the point where the Francés campsite is located and the entrance to the majestic French Valley. Here, you can leave your backpack at the Italian camp, where park rangers are available for assistance. From this point, begin your ascent towards the French Valley.
The trail will guide you through imposing rocks and a lush forest, culminating at the French viewpoint. Here, you will be rewarded with stunning views of Los Cuernos, dazzling turquoise glacial lagoons, and majestic hanging glaciers cascading from the east face of Paine Grande Mountain, with its peak at 3,050 meters above sea level. If luck is on your side, you can hear the roar of the glacier and the roar of the water, and even witness an exciting avalanche.
Trail for use in one direction only.
End Your Day with Tranquility and Taste
Upon arriving at the Paine Grande Refuge, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a delicious dinner that will culminate your day of adventure. Here, you can share your experiences with other travelers and recharge your batteries for the exciting explorations that await you in Torres del Paine.
Loss: 350 meters
Exploration of the Valley and Glacier Viewpoint
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on an exciting adventure to Gray Glacier. Order your box lunch and begin trekking in a narrow and winding valley that will lead you to the serene Laguna Los Patos.
As you progress, you will witness fragments of the immense Southern Ice Fields, as well as the impressive ice floes that adorn Gray Lake. The walk will take you to a sometimes windy viewpoint, from where you can see amazing panoramic views. The trail then descends through a lush mountain forest until you reach the cozy Gray Shelter. From here, a short walk of approximately 10 minutes will take you to the Gray Glacier viewpoint, where you will come face to face with this imposing mass of blue ice.
The path then descends through a lush mountain forest until you reach the cozy Gray Shelter. From here, a short 10-minute walk will take you to the Gray Glacier viewpoint, where you will be confronted with the magnificence of this colossal massif of blue ice. In the evening, delight your senses with a dinner served at the refuge, between 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.
Enjoy your Last Morning in Torres del Paine
If you didn't visit the suspension bridges the previous afternoon, take advantage of the morning to explore the panoramic views of Gray Glacier or participate in exciting excursions such as the Ice Trek or Gray Glacier Kayak. Then, board the Gray III navigation that will take you to the meeting point for the bus return to Puerto Natales. Confirm schedules with your executive, as they may vary depending on the date of your trip.
Always confirm the schedule with your executive departure of the navigation that you must take and also of the bus, the schedules may vary depending on the date of your trip.
Back at 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
Frequently Asked Questions
The W Circuit with Lago Grey exit 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 is defined by the program itinerary and the logistics of accommodation, transfers, hikes and navigation inside the park.
This program visits some of the most iconic areas of Torres del Paine, such as Base Torres, Ascencio Valley, Los Cuernos or the French Sector, the French Valley, Paine Grande, Lake Grey and Grey Glacier.
The route combines mountain trails, forests, Patagonian lakes, viewpoints, views of the Paine Massif and a final navigation experience in front of Grey Glacier.
The main difference is that this program ends with the Grey III Navigation on Lake Grey, one of the most impressive experiences in the park. Unlike other versions of the W Circuit, this itinerary allows travelers to finish the route by navigating through glacial landscapes, icebergs and views of Grey Glacier.
It is an ideal alternative for those who want to complete the classic W Circuit while adding a special scenic experience at the end of the journey.
This circuit has a medium-high physical difficulty level. It includes hikes of approximately 4 to 10 hours per day, with more demanding days such as Base Torres and the French Valley.
The route includes uneven trails, ascents, descents, windy sections and changing weather conditions typical of Patagonia. Good physical condition and previous experience in trekking or long hikes are recommended.
Yes. Previous experience in trekking or long-duration outdoor activities is recommended. No technical experience is required, but this program is not recommended for beginners without physical preparation.
To enjoy the circuit safely, it is important to be used to walking for several hours, maintaining a steady pace and carrying your personal belongings during the program.
This program is operated in a self-guided format, with the main logistics organized: accommodation, meals, transfers, navigation and entrance to the W Circuit trails.
Although you will not be accompanied by a guide throughout the entire route, it is essential to follow the indicated itinerary, respect departure times, connections and navigation schedules, hike only on authorized trails and follow the instructions of park rangers and local operators.
The program includes round-trip bus tickets between Puerto Natales and Torres del Paine, shared transfer between Laguna Amarga and Sector Las Torres, accommodation along the circuit, full board —breakfast, box lunch and dinner—, entrance to the W Circuit trails, Grey III Navigation, guidance and coordination by an expert team.
Inclusions may vary depending on availability and the type of accommodation confirmed, so we always recommend reviewing the program details before booking.
Yes. This program includes the Grey III Navigation, which allows travelers to finish the route by sailing across Lake Grey, with views of Grey Glacier and the glacial landscapes of the area.
Navigation schedules may vary depending on the travel date and operating conditions, so the departure time and bus connection should always be confirmed with the executive in charge.
On transfer sections between accommodation areas, you will need to carry your main backpack. On some hiking days, such as the ascent to the French Valley, you may be able to leave part of your luggage in the designated area and hike only with a small daypack.
We recommend traveling light and considering a backpack of approximately 40 liters, carrying only what is necessary for the trekking days. For those who need it, the program may include luggage storage in Puerto Natales.
Yes. This program requires confirmed accommodation reservations inside the park, as well as coordination of transfers, meals and Grey III Navigation.
Due to high demand and limited availability in refuges, campsites and navigation services, especially during high season, we recommend booking several months in advance.
Weather in Torres del Paine is variable and can change quickly. The program can usually operate with moderate rain, wind or cold, as long as conditions allow travelers to hike and services to operate safely.
In case of severe weather, strong winds, snow, ice, low visibility, preventive trail closures, navigation suspension or instructions from park rangers and local operators, some sections of the itinerary may be modified, delayed or suspended for safety reasons.
In all cases, passenger safety is the priority, and visitors must follow the instructions of park rangers, local operators and the park administration.
Reviews
Nov 28, 2025
"Completing the W trek and Hotel Lago Grey were highlights. Negative: Bus transfer timing from Hotel Grey was very late and inconvenient."
Included
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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
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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). - Boat Trip
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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)
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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 Recomendations
- 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 during 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
Pricing
| Per Person | Price for Chileans and Residents | Price for non-resident Foreigners |
|---|---|---|
| Camping en Single | CL$ 1 136 000 | US$ 1 818 |
| Camping en Doble | CL$ 963 000 | US$ 1 485 |
| Refugio | CL$ 1 070 000 | US$ 1 746 |
| Camping en Single | CL$ 1 403 000 | US$ 2 088 |
| Camping en Doble | CL$ 1 101 000 | US$ 1 639 |
| Refugio | CL$ 1 178 000 | US$ 2 073 |
| Camping en Single | CL$ 1 616 000 | US$ 2 416 |
| Camping en Doble | CL$ 1 240 000 | US$ 1 846 |
| Refugio | CL$ 1 299 000 | US$ 2 179 |
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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W Circuit exit by Grey Lake
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"Complete package with food and accommodations. Negative: Difficulty in handover of travel kit before the journey."