W Circuit Torres del Paine: Everything You Need to Know

Torres del Paine National Park in southern Chile (Patagonia Sur) boasts one of the world's most famous trails. The W Circuit, named for its shape (visible on the map), allows you to experience the park's most stunning highlights. You may recall the image of the three towering granite Towers, or the hanging glacier of Paine Grande, but that's just a glimpse of what you'll see on this journey. In our quest for beauty and adventure, this place ranks among our favorites in the world.

Best Time to Hike the W Circuit

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.



Approximate Duration of the W Circuit

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.

How to Get to Torres del Paine National Park

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.

Entrance Fee to Torres del Paine National Park

2024-2025 Season

Chileans: Adults $13,000, Youth (13 to 17) $7,500. Children under 12 enter for free.

Foreigners: Adults $50 USD, Youth (13-17) $25 USD. Children under 12 enter for free.



What to See in Torres del Paine National Park

The journey is a feast for the senses. And not just because of its scenic beauty, which has earned it the title of the eighth wonder, but also because of the strong presence of its elements. Every part of the trail has its charm. The most famous are the Base Las Torres Viewpoint and the Grey Glacier at the park's ends, but the French Valley in the middle zone captivates everyone who visits with its incredible Lenga forests, hanging glaciers, and the impressive Cuernos del Paine that guard the valley. It's a scene of overwhelming beauty. The rest of the trail offers other great panoramic views of the mountain, lakes, rivers, and forests in the area.

Do You Have a Specific Route in Mind? Where Do I Start?

It all depends on whether your reservation is from east to west (the most common) or vice versa. As you can see on the map, the starting points are the Central Refuge on the east side and Paine Grande Refuge on the west side. Both starting points take you to the park's two main highlights: the Base Las Torres Viewpoint and the Grey Glacier. Whichever starting point you choose will be an experience that will stay with you.

Where Can You Sleep? How to Arrange Accommodation in Torres del Paine?

Most of the campsites on the W Circuit are paid. These campsites offer the option to choose between camping or staying in a refuge. They also provide services such as showers, a mini-market, meals, spaces for cooking indoors, (limited) use of electricity, 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're willing to carry.

Do You Need a Guide?

At Outdoor Index, we always recommend the company of a local guide. Not because it's required or necessary, but because it significantly enriches your experience. They can share knowledge about the park and local Patagonian traditions, helping you interpret the landscape and its phenomena better. *On some trails between May and August, when mountain areas require certain care, the company of a certified guide is required.

What Should You Bring?

Here's a list of the necessary equipment for someone wanting to do the circuit with an all-inclusive program, whether in a refuge or camping:

- 40L backpack (with rain cover)

- Small backpack for day hikes

- Trekking poles (highly recommended)

- Water-repellent jacket and pants (Goretex or similar)

- Fleece or thermal jacket

- Merino wool base layer or breathable material

- Short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts

- Regular walking shoes (not new)

- Cell phone (camera)

- Sandals (for bathing, resting, and crossing the river)

- Headlamp

- Padlock to lock your tent

- Quick-drying towel (lightweight)

- Cold-resistant hat and sun cap

- Sunscreen

- Sunglasses

- Camera

- Binoculars (for those who know how to use them)

- Water bottle (1 liter is sufficient)

- Ziploc bags (for your waste)

- First aid kit (bandages, band-aids, and anti-inflammatories)

If you've already completed the W Circuit and want to tackle a new challenge, the O Circuit, Paine Grande massif, is the next level. This journey revolves around the entire Paine mountain (including the W), approximately 100 km of pure trekking on a world-class circuit. A great adventure!

Find more information about the O Circuit (Paine Grande) here.

At Outdoor Index, we offer many ways to enjoy Torres del Paine for all levels of activity, always available at the best prices. Click here for tours and excursions in Torres del Paine. If this article interests you, follow us on social media and be the first to see similar articles about travel and outdoor activities.

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