Torres del Paine W Trek

76-mile trek through Chilean Patagonia

December

to March

Kilometers

Days

16h 20m

FKT (Circuit & W)

About the Route

WHY TREK IT?

Torres del Paine is an iconic region in Patagonia where sharp granite peaks tower above the landscape. It’s home to South America’s famous ‘W Trek’ – a 3- to 4-day hike to some of the most beautiful viewpoints in Torres del Paine – as well as the ‘O Circuit,’ which is an extended version of the ‘W Trek’ that reaches more remote vistas. If you have time to spare, the ‘O Circuit’ is well worth the extra effort. You’ll have to make it up and over the tough John Gardner Pass, but in doing so, you’ll access unforgettable views away from all the crowds.

“The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.”

- Walt Disney

One of the highlights of the ‘O Circuit’ is hiking alongside the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. There is an excellent viewpoint over Glacier Grey a couple of miles after the Grey Hut en route to the John Gardner Pass. If you opt for the shorter ‘W Trek,’ there is another great viewpoint between Paine Grande and Grey hut, or else you can make a 5-mile roundtrip detour up towards John Gardner Pass. Whatever you choose, be sure to come prepared for weather of any kind. It can be beautiful one moment and pouring rain the next, all the while high winds are all but guaranteed. You’ll also want to reserve campsites well in advance, as this is one of the most popular hiking routes in South America.