Hike the W-trek with a small group while staying in luxury glamping tents at EcoCamp Patagonia in Torres del Paine National Park

1Overview
Overview

One of the most well-known treks in Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia, the W-Trek is on many a hiker's bucket list. This five-day small group experience is based at EcoCamp Patagonia, a glamping retreat with a privileged position within the National Park. Wake each morning to views of the Torres and a hearty breakfast in the convivial dining tent, before setting off to discover the French Valley, Grey's Glacier, Towers Base and more iconic sites on your guided Short W-Trek tour. You will complete 61 kilometres (38 miles) in total covering the best of the W track hiking loop, walking pack-free with your porters moving your gear as needed. Enjoy three nights based in the private ensuite glamping tents at EcoCamp Patagonia, and one night at Paine Grande in tents set up by your guides. All meals, transport and two guides are included in this small group experience limited to a maximum of 12 guests per departure.

Please note, several alternative options are available including a private guided version of this 5 Day trek. There is also a full W circuit over 7 nights, or a shorter option based entirely at EcoCamp Patagonia which skips the night at the Refugio.

Eco Camp Patagonia HERO 1
Towers Base Torres del paine lr
View Gallery
2Inclusions
Rates & Inclusions

Your four night, five day itinerary includes:

  • Three nights' private ensuite accommodation at EcoCamp Patagonia in a Superior Tent*
  • One night at Paine Grande at the mountain hut (Refugio) or in tents nearby, with shared bathroom facilities
  • Sleeping mats, sleeping bag and a polar fleece liner are supplied for the Refugio night, and the team will set up and dismantle any tents
  • Daily breakfasts and three-course dinners
  • Packed picnic lunches to enjoy on the trail
  • Guided hiking on the W-Trek including Towers Base, Grey Glacier and French Valley**
  • All ground and boat transfers to support your walk
  • Return scheduled transfers included from Puerto Natales or Punta Arenas

* From pricing is per person, twin share, in the Superior Tent and based on low season (early October, late April). Please enquire for the best available rate for your departure date. Upgrade to the premier Suite Tent from US$165 pp/A$250 pp (low season).

** Note: During Low and Shoulder Season (October and April), the boat trip to Glacier Grey and the Towers hike may be cancelled in the event of unsafe conditions. In this case guests enjoy a comparable alternative walk within the National Park.

3Getting here
Location & Access

This journey commences and concludes in Puerto Natales or Punta Arenas, in Chilean Patagonia. Flights from Santiago to Puerto Natales are seasonal and normally operate from November to April. Flights to Punta Arenas are available year-round. Complimentary transfers from either airport are included with your journey on a set shared schedule basis. View our detailed W-Trek Map here.

Please enquire about pre and post-accommodation in and around Torres del Paine National Park, and extension options to El Calafate and El Chalten.

WIL MAP SOUTH AMERICA Southern Patagonia
5Itinerary
Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1

This morning, you’ll be picked up from the airport or your hotel in Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales and driven to EcoCamp Patagonia, located in Chile's Torres del Paine National Park. On the way, enjoy a local lunch in Puerto Natales as you get to know your walking group. The journey is scenic and offers a chance to view Patagonia's wildlife enroute to the camp. After settling in, the day end's with a delicious three course dinner in the communal dining area, before retiring to your unique bed, nestled in the heart of Torres del Paine National Park.

Included: L - D

Eco Camp Patagonia HERO 1

Day 2 - French Valley

After breakfast at camp, you'll be transferred to Pudeto dock where the catamaran departs to Pehoe. From here, the group begins the moderately-challenging trek to Valle Frances (French Valley) along a steep trail that leads to the heart of the Paine Massif. Subject to the group's pace, you'll walk as far as the hanging bridge over the French River, located at the foot of the southeastern face of the Massif, which offers special views over the valley. Next the walk continue towards the upper section of the valley where there is an extensive geological formation. Pause for a picnic lunch and relax next to the stunning views, before descending through an undulating terrain of mixed grassland and light forest all the way to Refugio Paine Grande. Located at the peaceful shores of Lake Pehoe, this is a magic landscape to spend the night in.

Daily walk distance: up to 25 kilometres/15 miles

Included: B - L - D

French Valley Hike LR

Day 3 - Grey Glacier

After a night in nature, in the morning you'll hike from Paine Grande Refugio along the shores of Lake Pehoe to the northern side of Lake Grey. Enjoy a picnic lunch before boarding the boat that sails right to the face of Glacier Grey. Take in the dramatic views of the glacier, while sipping on a drink stocked with fresh glacier ice. After finishing this boat ride, the group will be transferred back to EcoCamp for a night of luxury comfort. Enjoy a shower and relax by the fire, before a three course dinner with new friends under the dining dome.

Daily walk distance: up to 14 kilometres/9 miles

Included: B - L - D

Eco Camp Grey Glacier

Day 4 - Towers Base

After waking to views of the Paine Massif, the group sets off early on the most famous trail in Torres del Paine National Park. Walking from the campsite towards Ascencio Valley, you'll ascend the Tower's eastern face today. Mountain ridges, beech forests, and small rivers line the scenic valley walk. The terrain is steep in parts, with a huge mass of boulders leading up to that iconic base-view of the Towers, three gigantic granite monoliths carved by glacial ice over milenia. After a tough uphill climb, the Towers eventually come into full view, rising majestically with the glacial lake visible below. After lunch at such a unique setting, it will be hard to leave, but the afternoon brings another scenic walk back along the same trail through Ascencio Valley returning to EcoCamp Patagonia for a well-deserved dinner and glass of Chilean wine.

Daily walk distance: up to 22 kilometres/14 miles

Included: B - L - D

Towers Base Torres del paine lr

Day 5

This morning there is time to enjoy a final breakfast and coffee with that incredible view over Torres del Paine National Park. Bid farewell to new friends before boarding the transfer back to Puerto Natales or Punta Arenas. Take time to reflect on your Patagonian journey on the scenic ride to the airport.

Included: B

Eco Camp Patagonia 2
6Availability
Season & Departure Dates

The W-Trek season runs from October to April, with regular Sunday departures of the Small Group Guided Short W-Trek. Private departures are available on request on other days, please enquire for options.

Frequently asked questions

Best way to hike the W-Trek in Torres del Paine NP

Our essential guide to Patagonia's most popular hike, discover the best ways to hike the W-Trek and stay in Torres del Paine National Park, from luxury lodges to glamping

When is the best time to hike the W Trek in Torres del Paine NP?

The hiking season in Torres del Paine National Park and for the W Trek runs from October to April.

What gear do I carry on the W Trek at EcoCamp Patagonia?

The guided W Trek hike at EcoCamp Patagonia is pack-free, meaning you carry only a small day pack while hiking

What is the minimum age for the W Trek?

The W Trek guided hike at EcoCamp Patagonia has a minimum age of 11 years with prior approval, or 13 years as a standard minimum

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