FAQs
The best time to hike the W Circuit is during spring and summer, between October and April, when temperatures rise and daylight hours increase. However, this doesn't guarantee 100% sunny, pleasant, and stable weather, as this is also when the strong Patagonian winds appear, creating dramatic changes within the same day. 1 day, 4 seasons. On the other hand, between May and August, the weather stabilizes more due to the absence of wind, allowing for calmer, colder, and shorter days. Additionally, during the low season, not all services are available; some campsites and refuges are closed, which implies alternative options and possibly more technical mountain equipment such as gaiters and ice crampons.
4-5 days is typical. The complete circuit is 72 km, so it's important to be physically prepared, as it includes very demanding sections (+900 m of elevation gain) and a cumulative elevation change of +2,830 m and -2,900 m. We recommend a 40-liter backpack, with a maximum weight of 13 kg, to carry only your personal items, along with trekking poles to protect your knees over long distances. Unexpected events, such as bad weather conditions and winds, can also make hiking more challenging.
The quickest and most convenient way is through the airport in Puerto Natales (the nearest city to the national park), which has commercial flights between October and March. Another option is through the Punta Arenas airport, which receives flights year-round. Buses depart from the airport to Puerto Natales (a 3-hour journey). Once you arrive at the Puerto Natales bus terminal (rodoviario), you'll notice that it's also the departure point for buses to Torres del Paine Park. During the 2022-2023 season, there will be two daily departures: 7:00 AM and 2:00 PM (remember to always arrive 15 minutes before the bus departure). Upon arrival at the park, the bus will stop at Laguna Amarga sector, the official park entrance. Here, you'll need to show your pre-purchased entrance ticket. It's important to be clear about where your W Circuit begins, as this will determine whether you continue with the same bus to the Pudeto sector or head towards the Central Refuge sector. We always recommend choosing programs that solve all transportation and logistics issues. They will make your trip much simpler and more enjoyable.
2024-2025 Season: Foreigners: Youth (13+) and Adults $47 USD. Children under 12 enter for free.
Firstly, its location. It lies in the southernmost region of Chile (Magallanes Region), in Southern Patagonia at the foot of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. A unique setting in the world, full of drama, wild nature, and one of the least populated areas on the planet (1 inhabitant per km²). In addition to this, Torres del Paine has been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its incredibly high ecological value, both in terms of flora and fauna. The park is particularly known for its great diversity of animals, with the Puma (Mountain Lion) standing out. Torres del Paine is home to the highest concentration of Pumas in the world.
In addition to its ecological value, the park holds cultural significance due to the historic presence of livestock farming in this Patagonian region in the 19th century. The Gaucho culture (Patagonian Cowboy) and all the evidence of human settlements (rock paintings and pre-Columbian objects) dating back between approximately 500 and 2,500 years ago also contribute to its cultural importance.
The trip is a feast for the senses. Not only because of its scenic beauty, which has earned it the title of the eighth wonder of the world, but also because of the strong presence of its elements. Every part of the trail has its allure. The most famous are the Base de las Torres Viewpoint and the Grey Glacier at the park's extremes, but the Valle del Francés, in the middle zone, captivates all who visit with its incredible Lenga forests, hanging glaciers, and the impressive Cuernos del Paine that guard the valley. It is a scene of overwhelming beauty. The rest of the trails offer other great panoramic views of the mountains, lakes, rivers, forests, and hanging glaciers in the area.
All campsites involving the W Circuits require payment. They offer the option to choose between Camping or Refugio for sleeping. They also provide services such as showers, mini-market, meals, cooking spaces indoors, (limited) use of electricity and internet, and rental of equipment such as tents, insulating mattresses, and sleeping bags. Prices vary depending on the services you want to hire and the weight you are willing to carry.
At Outdoor Index, we always recommend the company of a local guide. Not because it is required or necessary, but rather because they help make your experience significantly richer and deeper. They transmit knowledge about the park and local traditions of Patagonia, helping you interpret the landscape and its phenomena better. In some trails between May and August, when mountain areas require certain care, the company of a certified guide is required.
Below is a list of basic equipment for someone who wants to do the circuits with an all-inclusive program, either in a refuge or camping:
- 40L backpack (with a rain cover).
- Small backpack for day trips.
- Trekking poles (highly recommended).
- Water-resistant jacket and pants (Goretex or similar).
- A thermal polar or thermal sweater.
- First layer of Merino wool or a breathable material.
- Short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts.
- Shoes you regularly walk in (not new ones).
- Cell phone (camera).
- Sandals (for bathing and resting).
- Front flashlight.
- Padlock to lock your tent.
- Quick-drying towel (lightweight).
- Cold-resistant hat, gloves, and sun hat.
- Sunscreen.
- Sunglasses.
- Camera.
- Binoculars (for those who know how to use them).
- Water bottle (1 liter is enough).
- Ziploc bags (for your waste).
- First aid kit (with bandages, band-aids, and anti-inflammatories).
This is a question that our travelers often ask us. And we are pleased to tell you that the available options continue to be of the same level of excellence as Torres del Paine.
If you are interested in continuing to explore Chile, we can connect you with the lake district located in Northern Patagonia or the Atacama Desert (the other end of Chile), where we have hiking programs to the summits of volcanoes in the highlands.
If you want something within Southern Patagonia, we have programs in the mountain village in Argentina called El Chaltén, where the famous Fitz-Roy mountain (Patagonia Logo) is located. A place of great trekking and spectacular views.
And as a last option, it is very common for travelers visiting Torres del Paine to also connect with Antarctica, in multi-day cruise programs or a more economical full-day experience on the white continent.