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The Classic W Trek: 7-Day Patagonia Adventure

The absolute classic, the mecca of world-class trekking, and Patagonia in its purest, most untamed form. This program is exclusively designed for true hiking enthusiasts and travelers with excellent physical conditioning who are ready to immerse themselves in the geographic heart of Torres del Paine National Park.

 

We will live an epic journey under the "one-way" modality (from East to West), crossing the massif linearly without looking back, just as the early pioneers did. By sleeping in the park's mountain refuges and campsites, you will connect 100% with the raw energy of the mountains.

Note: Due to massive global demand, booking slots for this expedition must be secured months in advance.

From 4.100 USD Private tour/per person.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Puerto Natales & Expedition Briefing

Your journey to the edge of the world begins with a private pickup at the airport and a transfer to your hotel in Puerto Natales. In the afternoon, you will have a crucial technical briefing with your b-side travel guide. We will map out the circuit, check the latest mountain weather forecasts, and repack your trekking backpacks. You will leave your extra luggage in secure storage at the hotel, getting your mind and body ready for the 5 days of pure trekking ahead.

  • Accommodation: Puerto Natales.

  • Inclusions: Private airport-hotel transfer, bilingual guide for briefing, accommodation.

Day 2: The Baptism of Fire: Base Torres Lookout

Early in the morning, we transfer to the Las Torres sector to officially kick off the circuit. The first day challenges us with the most demanding hike in the park: the steep ascent to the Base Torres Lookout. We will trek through the Ascencio Valley, conquering the famous and imposing "moraine"—a steep field of massive granite boulders. The ultimate reward will be seeing the three iconic granite needles and their emerald lagoon standing right before you. Upon descending, we will stay directly at the base sector of the trail.

  • Technical Details: 22 km (13.6 miles) total

  • Elevation change: +800m / -800m

  • Duration: 8–9 hours.

  • Accommodation: Refugio/Campsite Central or Chileno (subject to availability).

  • Inclusions: Private transfer to Torres del Paine, trekking guide, box lunch, dinner, accommodation.

Day 3: Traversal of Lake Nordenskjöld

Today we begin our linear journey from East to West. We will skirt the slopes of the towering Mount Almirante Nieto and hike alongside the turquoise waters of Lake Nordenskjöld. This is a day of long distances and undulating terrain, where the fierce Patagonian winds often show their full power. We will cross pristine rivers and rocky beach zones until reaching the gates of the French Valley.

  • Technical Details: 13.5 km (8.3 miles) to Cuernos / 18.5 km (11.5 miles) to Francés

  • Elevation change: +200m

  • Duration: 5–6 hours (to Cuernos) or 6–7 hours (to Francés).

  • Accommodation: Refugio/Campsite Cuernos or Francés (subject to availability).

  • Inclusions: Trekking guide, breakfast, box lunch, dinner, accommodation.

 

Day 4: The Granite Heart: French Valley in its Full Splendor

We venture deep into the heart of the "W". Leaving our heavy packs at the Italian Camp, we begin a sharp, technical ascent into the French Valley. First, we will reach the French Lookout, offering brutal views of its hanging glacier, and then we will push forward to the Británico Lookout. From there, you will find yourself completely surrounded by a colossal amphitheater of sheer granite walls (Shark’s Fin, Los Cuernos, Cabeza de Cóndor). After descending, we hike toward the shores of Lake Pehoé.

  • Technical Details: 16 km (10 miles) from Cuernos / 13 km (8 miles) from Francés

  • Elevation change: +650m / -650m

  • Duration: 7–8 hours.

  • Accommodation: Refugio/Campsite Paine Grande.

  • Inclusions: Trekking guide, breakfast, box lunch, dinner, accommodation.

Day 5: Heading to the Ice Giant: Grey Glacier

We start our hike from the shores of Lake Pehoé, heading north. The trail ascends gradually through a deep ravine that often acts as a natural wind tunnel for intense gusts, before rewarding us with our first jaw-dropping panoramic view of the Grey Glacier and its floating icebergs. We will continue descending through native coigüe forests until reaching the refuge, located just a stone's throw away from this massive wall of ice originating from the Southern Patagonian Ice Field.

  • Technical Details: 11 km (6.8 miles) total

  • Elevation change: +350m

  • Duration: 4–5 hours.

  • Accommodation: Refugio/Campsite Grey.

  • Inclusions: Trekking guide, breakfast, box lunch, dinner, accommodation.

Day 6: The Suspension Bridges, Grey Navigation & Return

The final push to bid farewell to the park in absolute style. We will hike an additional section toward the "O" Circuit to cross the famous suspension bridges. The views of the glacier from these high-altitude wooden walkways are breathtaking. We return to the refuge to board the Grey Catamaran, navigating directly in front of the colossal ice walls of the glacier and crossing the lake. Upon landing on the beach, our private van will be waiting to take us back to Puerto Natales.

  • Technical Details: 8 km (5 miles) hike (round-trip to the bridges)

  • Elevation change: +200m

  • Duration: 3–4 hours of hiking + 2 hours of navigation.

  • Inclusions: Trekking guide, Grey Glacier Navigation ticket, private transfer to Puerto Natales, breakfast, box lunch.

  • Accommodation: Puerto Natales.

What’s Included?

  • Certified Local Guide

  • Accommodation: 2 nights in Puerto Natales + 5 nights in the refuge or tent at the national park (pre-assembled tent, high-mountain sleeping bag, and insulating mattress).

  • Full Board (All Meals during the expedition: breakfast, box lunch, dinner)

  • Transportation Round trip Puerto Natales

  • Tickets and Permits to the national park.

  • Ticket for the Grey Glacier Catamaran (outbound ferry).

What’s NOT Included?

 

  • Domestic or international flights.

  • Mandatory travel insurance (with mountain rescue coverage).

  • Tips for guides and refuge staff.

The Location & Surroundings

Additional information

●    The order of activities and some of their characteristics may vary depending on weather conditions. 

●    Please specify any dietary restrictions or particular diets in detail so that you can enjoy the snacks and meals. 

●    Please note that upgrading to larger or more luxurious accommodations may result in additional costs, subject to availability.

●    If your trip involves camping, consider a shared tent that will be included on the base price. upgrading to a      single tent may result in additional cost and subject to availability.

●    For trips that include domestic flights, the base rate includes Economy Standard status with one carry-on bag. To ensure a smooth experience in regions where flights usually operate at full capacity, we recommend traveling light. However, additional checked luggage can be quoted and added prior to departure at an extra charge, depending on each passenger's preference.

●    Whether you join our small group activities or opt for a fully private experience, we focus on high-quality, sustainable tourism. Our group tours run with a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 6 people, allowing you to book individually while enjoying a shared adventure. Private options are also available for those seeking tailored itineraries.

We are B-Side Travel Chile an eco-conscious travel agency that invites you to embark on an extraordinary adventure into the heart of Chile and the pristine wilderness.

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