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Patagonia Torres del Paine W Trek

Special Autumn departure

Trip Length: 7 Days
Group Size: 2-12
Difficulty: Demanding
From: Referential price - Low Season (Based on 2 Passengers)
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Ready to experience the W Trek in autumn? On this special 7-day departure, you’ll venture into the heart of Torres del Paine National Park, with quieter trails and landscapes painted in seasonal colors.

Hike to Grey Glacier, the French Valley, and the Base of the Towers alongside expert guides, and relax in cozy refugios and at EcoCamp Patagonia, where comfort meets sustainable living, great food, and yoga. An unforgettable Patagonian adventure.

 

Highlights

Highlights

  • Trek on some of Patagonia’s best trails and pass by picturesque landscapes.
  • Take a relaxing boat ride to Grey Glacier, one of the park’s top attractions. 
  • Spend some of your nights at EcoCamp Patagonia, the world’s first sustainable dome hotel.
  • Enjoy the trek by only carrying your daypack while our porters take your backpack.
  • Recommended trek for active hikers. 

Itinerary

Day 1 (27/04): The Patagonian adventure begins

Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Let the trip of a lifetime begin! Today you arrive at EcoCamp Patagonia, set right in the heart of Torres del Paine. This special autumn departure is ideal for travelers who want the W Trek at its finest: golden light, fiery lenga forests, crisp air, and far fewer people on the trails. After check-in, settle into camp, take in the views of the Paine Massif, and get ready for the days ahead.

Overnight at EcoCamp Patagonia

Meals: Lunch or Box Lunch, Dinner.

EcoCamp with a Drone (5 de 1)_resultado

Day 2 (28/04): Los Cuernos / Nordenskjöld Viewpoint

Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

We kick things off with a scenic day that sets the tone for an autumn W Trek: wide-open landscapes, fresh air, and a calmer, more intimate feel than peak season. After breakfast, we transfer to Pudeto and board the catamaran across Lake Pehoé. From the landing point, we hike along the shores of Lake Nordenskjöld, with constant views of the horn-like peaks of the Paine Massif.

Depending on catamaran schedules, today’s trek will end either in the Los Cuernos area or at the Nordenskjöld Viewpoint—both offering unforgettable panoramas.

The total distance may vary depending on whether the hike finishes in the Los Cuernos area or at the Nordenskjöld Viewpoint, according to catamaran schedules. In autumn, the reduced number of hikers allows for a smoother pace and a more relaxed, immersive experience.

  • Hiking Distance: 13–15 km / 8.1–9.3 mi
  • Hiking Time: 5-6 hrs.
  • Max. Altitude: 300 m / 985 ft
  • Elevation gain: 350–450 m / 1,150–1,475 ft

Overnight at Camping Paine Grande*

*Please ask your Travel Experience Designer about upgrades to shared dormitories.

Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch, Dinner.

44418669600_1b09f95a01_c

Day 3 (29/04): The heart of the massif — French Valley

Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Get ready for one of the most iconic days of the W Trek. We hike into the French Valley, a dramatic natural amphitheater of granite walls, hanging glaciers, and the echo of distant icefalls. In autumn, the experience becomes even more memorable: warm forest colors, softer light, and a sense of total immersion.

This is the longest and most demanding day of the program, as the trail leads deep into the heart of the Paine Massif. The route features steady ascents and dramatic scenery that unfolds gradually along the way. How far the group progresses into the valley will depend on the group’s pace and daily conditions, always prioritizing safety and enjoyment.

  • Hiking Distance: 18–20 km / 11.2–12.4 mi
  • Hiking Time: 8-10 hrs.
  • Max. Altitude: 600–700 m / 1,970–2,300 ft
  • Elevation gain: 800–1,000 m / 2,625–3,280 ft

Overnight at Camping Paine Grande*

*Please ask your Travel Experience Designer about upgrades to shared dormitories.

Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch, Dinner.

French Valley Viewpoint - Webp

Day 4 (30/04): Grey Glacier — trekking + navigation

Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Today we follow the trail from Paine Grande toward the Grey sector, walking along the lake as icebergs begin to appear—an exciting sign that the glacier is near. After the hike, we board the Grey–Hotel Grey navigation, an unforgettable way to experience the glacier from the water. From there, we continue by vehicle back to EcoCamp for a well-earned evening of comfort and great food.

  • Hiking Distance: 11 km./6.8 mi.
  • Hiking Time: 4 hrs.
  • Max. Altitude: 244 m./800 ft.
  • Elevation gain: 271 m. / 889 ft.

Overnight at EcoCamp Patagonia

Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch, Dinner.

Grey Trail 2

Day 5 (01/05): The big challenge — Towers Base trek

Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Today is the big one: the trek to the Base of the Towers. We hike into the Ascencio Valley, climbing through forests, rivers, and mountain ridgelines before tackling the final steep moraine. The reward is legendary: the three granite towers rising above a glacial lake.

In autumn, this classic feels different in the best way—fewer hikers at the viewpoint, stunning light, and a quieter, more personal moment with Patagonia’s most iconic view. We return to EcoCamp to celebrate with a well-deserved dinner.

  • Hiking Distance: 22 km./14 mi.
  • Hiking Time: 9 hrs.
  • Max. Altitude: 897 m./2942 ft.
  • Elevation gain: 1023 m. / 3356 ft.

Overnight at EcoCamp Patagonia

Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch, Dinner.

Towers Base Lookout

Day 6 (02/05): Laguna Azul — the perfect finale

Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

We end the journey with a scenic excursion to Laguna Azul, on the park’s eastern side. This is a gentler day, combining short walks and panoramic stops with a different perspective of the Towers. The open steppe landscapes offer great chances to spot wildlife and capture final photos—an ideal way to slow down and soak it all in before departure.

  • Hiking Distance: 6 km./3.72 mi.
  • Hiking Time: 3 hrs.
  • Max. Altitude: 300 m./984 ft.
  • Elevation gain: 267 m. / 876 ft.

Overnight at EcoCamp Patagonia

Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch, Dinner.

Laguna Azul al Amanecer (25 de 1)_resultado

Day 7 (03/05): Farewell, Torres del Paine

Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

After breakfast, we check out and begin the return journey. You leave having experienced a truly special version of the W Trek: autumn colors, quieter trails, and Patagonia at its most atmospheric.

Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch.

Laguna Azul

Included

Included

  • All ground transport as indicated in the itinerary.
  • One expert English/Spanish speaking trekking guide.
  • Torres del Paine National Park entrance fee.
  • Accommodation as detailed in the itinerary.
  • Boat crossing over Grey Lake.
  • Sleeping bag, sleeping bag liner, sleeping mat & tent.
  • Porter service.
  • All meals detailed in the itinerary.
  • Transportation to/from EcoCamp according to our Transfer Schedule.

Not included

  • Flight tickets.
  • Insurance (appropriate health & travel insurance is mandatory).
  • Voluntary tipping to guides and staff.
  • Cash for buying extra drinks, snacks or souvenirs.
  • Personal items.

Accommodation

EcoCamp Patagonia (Nights 1, 4, 5 & 6)

Ecocamp Patagonia is located in the heart of Torres del Paine National Park in Chile with views of the majestic granite Paine Towers. It was the first geodesic dome hotel in the world, offering an upscale camp at the domes inspired by the region’s ancient nomadic inhabitants. 

EcoCamp Patagonia Suite Dome
(Heating & Private bathroom, 28m²/300ft²)

Suite domes were designed to further our goal of providing comfort in a natural setting with minimal environmental impact, and also maintain the hotel’s familiar and cozy vibe. The domes have comfortable double or twin beds, a wood stove and a private bathroom with a state-of-the-art composting toilet.

Suite Dome at EcoCamp

EcoCamp Patagonia Suite Dome Loft
(2 floors, Heating & Private bathroom, 37m²/398ft²)

Suite dome lofts are two-storey domes which fit up to four people and have comfortable double or twin beds both up and downstairs. These domes, ideal for families or groups of friends, come with a wood stove, a private terrace and a private bathroom with a state-of-the-art composting toilet.

Suite Dome Loft at EcoCamp

EcoCamp Patagonia Superior Dome
(Heating & Private bathroom, 23m²/250ft²)

Spacious, comfortable and equipped with private bathrooms, Superior Domes are the optimum choice for trekkers wanting that bit more space and comfort at the end of a long day’s walk. Each Superior Dome has comfortable queen-size or twin beds, a propane heater, skylight windows and a private bathroom with a sophisticated composting toilet.

Superior Dome at EcoCamp

EcoCamp Patagonia Standard Dome
(Heating, Shared bathroom, 10m²/108ft²)

EcoCamp Standard domes were the world's first lodge accommodation in geodesic shape. They are resistant to the strong Patagonian winds and come equipped with two single beds (doubles on request, as in the photo), cozy fleece blankets, and feather quilts. There is a radiator for heating, which can also be used to hang your clothes for drying There are windows in the ceiling for stargazing. Standard domes include shared bathrooms which are large, comfortable, and gender divided.

standard dome-5

Campsite at Paine Grande (Nights 2 & 3)

Accommodation in tents for 2 people will be provided in the corresponding shelter facilities. The shelters are heated and have a very comfortable feeding area where abundant meals are served. Alternatively, guest houses or lodges have rooms for 4 to 6 people. The beds are single bunk beds (sleeping bags and fleece blankets are provided) while the bathrooms are also shared and have hot water.

Optional upgrade to the shared dormitories inside Refugios are available upon request, please ask to your Travel Experience Designer for more information.

Paine Grande Campsite & Refugio

Paine-Grande-_-FACHADA-3 PAT025 _ Torres del Paine _ Paine Grande Camp & Refuge-1

 

Paine-Grande-_-COMEDOR-1 Paine-Grande-_-BUFFET-2

Paine Grande's Shared Dormitories

An optional upgrade to the shared dormitories inside Refugio Paine Grande can be requested. Please review availability and prices with your Travel Experience Designer.

Paine-Grande-_-HABITACION-1 Paine-Grande-_-HABITACION-2

 

Facts

Departures

This is a special departure for April 27, 2026.

Departures require a minimum of 2 participants. If a given departure isn't available, you will be put on a waiting list.

Starting / finishing point

This trip starts on Monday and finishes on Sunday with pickups and drop-offs in Punta Arenas, Puerto Natales or El Calafate. Please visit our Weekly Transfer Board for details of EcoCamp pick up and drop off times.

Can't find availability for this program?

If you can't find availability or are looking for something that better fits your preferences and itinerary, we have the perfect solution for you!

Discover our exciting W Trek - Brush Variant program, sailing from the fjords to the heart of the Paine Massif, with stunning views of three magnificent glaciers and virgin forests.

Departures are every Friday from November to March. Don't hesitate to explore this incredible experience by clicking here.

Important notes

During Low and Shoulder Season (October and April), the boat trip to Glacier Grey may be canceled, if this is the case, the itinerary will be modified sou depart from Paine Grande through the Pehoé Lake navigation or Las Carretas trail.

If refugios are unavailable, alternative accommodation will be provided in tents or domes with prior notice.

If you choose a Standard Dome and you are traveling alone, you can share the dome with another person of the same gender and pay the double base price. If you want the dome to yourself, you need to pay a Single Supplement.

Accommodation in the refugio will be provided in comfortable tents or domes, including mat, sleeping bag and a polar fleece liner; our team will set up and dismantle all this. The campsite provides satisfactory bathroom facilities. Meals will be served inside the refugio.

Please note: During Shoulder and Low Season (October and April) the Towers Base Trek excursion might be canceled due to weather conditions and safety concerns.

Physical demands

This is the right trip for energetic people who like to be active and have a spirit of adventure and a positive attitude. During this trek you will walk a total of 77kms /48,5mi. On the map, in the itinerary section, click on the walking person icon for daily information.   

To enjoy this trek it is essential to be in shape before you arrive. It is not wise to regard this trek as a means of getting into shape or losing excess weight. Start a program of conditioning well before departure.

Group size guiding staff

  • 9 travelers is the most typical group size, plus guiding staff.
  • Maximum 12 clients.
  • Guide to passenger ratio: 1:6

Children policy

Individuals aged 13 or older are considered adults.

Children aged 12 may join this trek on a private basis, ensuring a more personalized and safe experience. Parents or legal guardians must confirm that the child is physically and mentally prepared for an intense trekking adventure.

Younger children are not permitted to participate in this trip.

This trip does not offer a special discount for children.

Transport

In Torres del Paine and throughout Patagonia transport is in minivans that normally seat from 8 to 14 people. Pick up/ off times will be confirmed locally by our operations team. An exclusive toll-free emergency number will be available for anyone needing additional support while they are in Chile.

Weather

The vast unbroken stretch of ocean to the west and south of the South American continent leaves the Patagonian Andes very exposed to the winds that circle the Antarctic landmass, making the weather hard to predict. Fine weather may deteriorate almost without warning; even in summer (December to March), you should come prepared to find strong cold winds (up to 130 km/hr) and rainfall. Summer’s average temperature is 11ºC (52ºF), ranging between 2 to 24ºC (35 to 75ºF).

What you need to bring

Passengers need to be prepared for summer and winter all at once. We recommend the following:

  • A day backpack (30 liters - to carry a camera, glasses, raincoat, etc).
  • Trekking or hiking boots.
  • Extra shoes for evenings or in case others get wet.
  • Waterproof jacket.
  • 2 pairs of wool socks.
  • Fleece jacket or sweater.
  • Shorts or comfortable loose pants.
  • Sun protection (glasses, hat, lip balm, and screen).
  • Optional Capilene underwear for the upper and lower body.
  • Cash to buy extra drinks, snacks or souvenirs in Torres del Paine National Park.

Porter service and luggage handling

Who are the porters?

The porters are people who will help us with the logistics of transporting luggage during our trip. They will be in charge of carrying items such as: tents, sleeping bags, mats/insulators and dry bags*. They will transport these items from Ecocamp or the camps occupied during the trek, to our next stops, making sure to arrive on time so that we can find these items at our disposal once we arrive at the camps/refugios.

*Dry bags: Dry bags, as their name indicates, are waterproof bags in which we can store the items that we will not need during the walks and keep them dry and insulated while the porters transport them. The dry bag limit (regulated based on the weight that is healthy for porters to carry) is 15 Lt. and 5 Kg/11 Lb. each (in case there is more than one dry bag on your trip).

These bags will be labeled with your name so that they are not confused with those of other members of your group.

Dry bag logistics for the 7 Days W Trek

Upon arrival at EcoCamp, the guides will give a briefing to explain in detail the logistics of the dry baga and the next day's activity.

On the 7 Day W trek you will be given 1 dry bag, which you must fill with your belongings on day 1 of the itinerary upon arriving at Ecocamp. This bag will have the following organization/logistics.

Day 2: On day 2 of the itinerary, this bag will be transported from EcoCamp to Camping Paine Grande, where it will wait for you with your belongings for that evening.

Day 4: The dry bag leaves from Paine Grande to EcoCamp, where you can have it when you arrive in the afternoon.

Tips for assembling dry bags

Taking into account that you will only have access to 1 of the 2 dry bags during your trip (when your trip includes 2), we recommend the following to have optimal access to your items:

  • In dry bags, store items that you will only need during the nights in refugios, for example: Change of clothes (underwear, pants, t-shirts, first layers, socks).
  • Sleeping bags and insulators/mats are NOT stored in the dry bags, these will be transported separately by the porters.
  • Do not store items that you will need every night such as personal hygiene items or medications; we recommend that you carry these items in your daily backpack.
  • Do not store items that are too large or heavy, remember that these must be transported by the porters and have a limit of 5Kg/11Lb.
  • Do not store flammable or too delicate items that could cause accidents for those transporting the dry bags.
  • Avoid storing food in dry bags as it can ruin the bag and also spoil the food.

Itinerary modifications

The weather in Patagonia can be difficult to plan around at times. We reserve the right to change the order of the days in any itinerary at the discretion of the trip guide and based on operational considerations. The trip guide can modify, change or eliminate part of the itinerary based upon these safety/weather considerations.

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We are a Chilean owned adventure tour operator, based in Santiago de Chile, operating adventure tours in Chile, Argentina and Bolivia.

Destinations | Chile

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