Hiking up to the base of the Towers is the most iconic part of the W-trek with the most iconic view in Torres del Paine.

If you are doing it on your last day of W-trek (as we strongly recommend), you will start at Refugio Chileno and make your way up to the base (2-2.5h), and then all the way back down to Hotel Las Torres (another 4-5h) to the end of your epic W-trek adventure.

The alternative way of doing it (and quite popular if you don't want to stay overnight) is an out-and-back hike from Hotel Las Torres. It is a much more strenuous hike with 3,418 ft of elevation gain, but still doable in about 7 hours. But we don't recommend this option for the reasons laid out below.

TIP: One of the highlights of your entire trip to Patagonia is catching the sunrise touchinging the peaks of the towers — an absolutely magical moment. While we are usually on a comfy side of adventures, we made an exception by waking up in the middle of the night to start our hike. Even though it was rough at times (hiking in complete darkness without flashlight, knowing that pumas are wondering around), we never regretted our decision — sunrise over the Torres Del Paine instantly erased everything that led to that moment.

Trail details on AllTrails

Base of the Towers Hike

Catamaran ride on Pehoe Lake is not just a way to get to the start of the W-trek, it's also a fantastic way to experience the breathtaking beauty of Torres del Paine National Park. The catamaran offers a unique perspective on the park's stunning landscapes, including the iconic Cuernos del Paine and the Paine Massif.

The Pehoe Lake catamaran operates between Pudeto and Refugio Paine Grande, providing a convenient and scenic means of transportation for hikers embarking on the W-Trek or other trails in the area. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes each way, allowing ample time to soak in the stunning vistas and capture some stunning shots on your camera.

Check the catamaran's schedule and availability in advance (check the links section), as it may be subject to changes depending on weather conditions and demand.

A catamaran ride on Pehoe Lake offers an unforgettable experience, allowing you to marvel at the majestic landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park while gliding through the serene waters of one of its most iconic lakes.

Catamaran Schedule and Details

Catamaran to Paine Grande

The hike from Francés to Chileno area is a beautiful section of the W-Trek. It takes you from the depths of the French Valley to the base of the iconic Paine Massif, showcasing the diverse landscapes of the park, including turquoise lakes, rolling hills, and dense forests.

The trail approximately covers 11.2 miles and takes about 7 to 8 hours to complete, depending on your pace and the time spent admiring the scenery. The hike follows the shores of Lake Nordenskjöld before ascending through the Ascencio Valley to Campamento Chileno, which serves as a base for the final ascent to the famous Base de las Torres viewpoint.

Francés to Chileno Trail

The hike from Grey Glacier to Campamento Italiano or Campamento Francés is another scenic section of the W-Trek. This stretch of the trek showcases diverse landscapes, including the shimmering lakes and verdant forests. The trail also passes through the heart of the park, offering impressive views of the Paine Massif and the Cuernos del Paine.

The trail covers a distance of approximately 11.5 miles and takes about 6 to 7 hours to complete, depending on your pace and the time spent admiring the scenery. The hike starts by retracing your steps from Grey back towards Paine Grande, then continuing along the shores of Lake Skottsberg and Lake Pehoé, before reaching Campamento Italiano, the starting point for the ascent into the French Valley. Campamento Francés is a short distance further, nestled within the French Valley itself.

Grey to Francés Trail

The hike from Grey Glacier to Gardner Bridge is a lesser-known but incredibly scenic trail that offers striking views of the Grey Glacier, the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, and the surrounding landscapes. It also features two beautiful suspension bridges along the way.

TIP: We recommend doing this trail either at the end of your first day in W-trek, or the following morning. You also don't have to go all the way up if you don't feel like it and turn around even after the first bridge.

Grey to Gardner Bridge Trail

Kayaking next to a glacier is as cool as it sounds — a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience of floating next to enourmous glacial icebergs. You don’t need previous experience or extra physical training even though it will make it more comfortable.

TIP: There is only one kayak operator in the Grey Glacier area — Big Foot Patagonia. It happens to be our team's favorite in entire Patagonia, so you'll be in very experienced hands throughout your adventure.

TIP: If you are not doing the W-Trek, you can still embark on this advanture by getting a ferry from Lago Grey Hotel to Refugio Grey which is an experience in itself. Check their schedule and booking options in the links section.

Big Foot Kayaking Grey

Lago Grey Navigation

Kayak Glacier Grey

Kayaking the Rio Serrano is a thrilling adventure in the heart of Chilean Patagonia, offering an unforgettable journey through the pristine wilderness of Torres del Paine National Park.

This unique experience allows outdoor enthusiasts and water sports lovers to immerse themselves in the captivating beauty of the region while navigating its stunning waterways, surrounded by towering mountains, massive glaciers, and vibrant flora and fauna.

TIP: We recommend a half-day kayaking experience with Big Foot Patagonia, our favorite local operator for kayaking and ice hiking in Torres del Paine.

Big Foot Kayak Serrano

Kayak Rio Serrano

Mirador Británico is a stunning viewpoint located in the heart of the French Valley in Torres del Paine National Park. This vantage point offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the surrounding granite peaks, glaciers, and verdant forests, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts seeking to immerse themselves in the awe-inspiring landscapes of the park.

The hike to Mirador Británico typically begins at Campamento Italiano and is approximately 8 miles round-trip with an elevation gain of 2,568 ft. The hike takes roughly 2 to 3 hours each way, depending on your pace and the time spent admiring the views.

TIP: If you're in a good physical shape, you can squeeze this hike into either the afternoon of your Grey → Francés day, or the morning of your Francés → Chileno day. We are in average shape and still managed to do it the same day we hiked from Grey and cut our entire trip by one day.

TIP: Another important tip that makes it possible to do this hike the same day you leave Grey — is that you can drop your bags at Campamento Italiano and do this entire hike much easier, faster, and comfortable.

But if you don't feel like hiking 10 hours in one day, just make the hike to Mirador Británico as a whole day experience by spending extra night in the area. Italiano or Francés areas are both great, but not Cuernos since you'll have to hike back and forth for a few extra hours.

Mirador Británico Trail

The hike from Paine Grande to Grey Glacier is a popular section of the famous W-Trek. This leg of the trek showcases the park's diverse landscapes, including lush forests, turquoise lakes, and dramatic mountain backdrops, culminating in the impressive Grey Glacier, which forms part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field.

The trail from Paine Grande to Grey covers a distance of approximately 7 miles one way and takes roughly 4 to 5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and the time spent admiring the scenery. As you hike along the shores of Lake Grey, you'll be treated to stunning views of the glacier and the surrounding mountains. The trail ends at the Refugio Grey or the Mirador Grey, where you can marvel at the glacier's immense scale and its characteristic blue ice formations, with massive icebergs floating in the lake.

TIP: We recommend this hike as the first day of your W-trek, starting with the scenic catamaran ride through lake Pehoe that gets you to Paine Grande, and checking in to Refugio Grey after the hike. And then finishing your day with a spectacular kayaking trip among Grey Glacier's icebergs — another once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Paine Grande to Grey Trail

Pehoe Lake Lookout, perched on the tiny island of Hostería Pehoé, offers one of Patagonia’s most breathtaking panoramas.

From here, the turquoise waters of Lake Pehoé shimmer beneath the jagged granite peaks of the Paine Massif, with Cuernos del Paine rising dramatically in the distance. It’s a serene yet powerful spot — perfect for soaking in sunrise or sunset light as it dances across the mountains.

TIP: For the best experience, visit early in the morning when the air is still and the lake reflects the peaks like a mirror. Even a quick stop here feels like stepping into a postcard.

Pehoe Lookout

Puma Safari in Torres del Paine is a thrilling wildlife adventure that takes you deep into the park’s rugged landscapes in search of the elusive Andean puma. Guided by experienced trackers, you’ll explore prime puma habitats, combining the excitement of wildlife spotting with the breathtaking scenery of mountains, lakes, and Patagonian plains.

The safari is paced to coincide with the pumas’ most active times—dawn and dusk—offering the chance to capture stunning wildlife moments against the backdrop of turquoise lakes, windswept plains, and jagged mountain peaks. Between excursions, there’s time to rest and enjoy a packed lunch or relax at nearby lodges.

Small groups ensure an intimate and immersive experience, while safety and respect for wildlife are always prioritized. While sightings can never be guaranteed, the thrill of tracking pumas through the park’s pristine wilderness makes every moment unforgettable.

TIP: Bring a good zoom lens, layered clothing for Patagonia’s unpredictable weather, and a sense of patience—these elusive predators reward those who wait.

Full-day tour by FPC

Tour by Leona Amarga

Puma Safari

A scenic drive through Torres del Paine National Park offers an incredible way to experience the park's out-of-this-world landscapes. The park's diverse terrain includes towering granite peaks, expansive glaciers, turquoise lakes, and vibrant forests and steppes teeming with wildlife.

Scenic views start almost immediately after crossing the Chilean border, and continue througout the park. The park offers a well-maintained network of roads that provide access to many of its most famous viewpoints and attractions. Don't forget to stop at the ranger station at the park entrance to get a permit if you haven't done that online.

Key stops on a scenic drive through Torres del Paine include Laguna Amarga, which boasts stunning views of the Paine Massif; Salto Grande, a powerful waterfall that connects Lake Nordenskjöld and Lake Pehoé; and the picturesque Lake Pehoé itself, surrounded by mountains and offering an iconic view of the Cuernos del Paine.

Scenic Drive in The Park

The W-Trek is a world-famous multi-day hiking trail in Torres del Paine National Park. Named for its distinctive "W" shape, this trek offers a stunning journey through diverse landscapes, including striking granite peaks, massive glaciers, turquoise lakes, and verdant forests. It is an ideal adventure for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers who want to immerse themselves in the captivating beauty of Patagonia.

This ~45 miles track is typically completed in 4 to 5 days and can be tackled from either east to west or west to east, with well-marked trails and designated campsites or refugios along the way. The trek's highlights include the base of the iconic Torres del Paine granite towers, the French Valley's awe-inspiring panoramic views, and the colossal Grey Glacier.

If you embark on this mutli-day hike, you must be well-prepared with appropriate gear, warm and waterproof clothing, and camping equipment if not staying in refugios. It is crucial to book campsites or refugios far in advance, as the trail's popularity often leads to limited availability during the high season.

TIP: For a stress-free planning experience, we recommend booking all your refugios or campsites before the season starts in November. But if you are planning your epic adventure just a couple of months in advance (as we usually do) – you might still be okay. We planned our trip in January with the start in late February and where just fine.

TIP: We organized all stay options in the park under our hand-picked stays section, so you can easily navigate this non-trivial planning task.

The W-Trek provides an unforgettable experience, showcasing the diverse and breathtaking beauty of the Chilean Patagonia. Conquering this challenging yet rewarding trail leaves a lasting impression and a deep appreciation for the majesty of nature.

LonelyPlanet Guide

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I’d consider Refugio Francés if you want a stay with views.

Patagonia’s remoteness might make you hesitate, but for those who crave hiking and breathtaking scenery, it offers an adventure like no other. Its otherworldly landscapes and unforgettable experiences will leave you in awe, making every mile of the journey worthwhile. Yes, the flight may be long, but what awaits you is nothing short of extraordinary — a trip that will stay with you forever.

Refugio Francés is a mountain refuge situated along the popular W Trek. It offers dormitory-style accommodations in stunning eco-domes with basic amenities to ensure a comfortable stay in the wilderness.

At Refugio Francés, you can enjoy hearty meals in the communal dining area with a cafe, replenish you supplies, and mingle with fellow trekkers from around the world. The refuge provides a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, allowing you to rest and recharge before continuing your journey through the park.

With its strategic location and stunning natural surroundings, Refugio Francés offers a memorable experience for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and serenity in the heart of Torres del Paine National Park.

Refugio Francés

See the mighty Perito Moreno and explore endless trails of El Chalten.

Argentinian Patagonia

Explore the most spectacular regions across Chile and Argentina.

Patagonian Adventure

Embark on the iconic W-trek in Torres del Paine on a dedicated trip.

W-trek Escape

This Chilean national park is a wonderland of craggy mountains, turquoise lakes, and majestic glaciers. The iconic 'towers' of Paine dominate the skyline, and trekking the W Circuit offers an unforgettable adventure through diverse and stunning terrain.

Torres del Paine

Driving between El Calafate and Torres del Paine is a journey filled with vast, open landscapes and breathtaking views, usually taking 5-6 hours with the border crossing.

The route begins on paved roads, heading westward along Ruta 40. After crossing into Chile, the roads become a mix of gravel and pavement, winding through rugged terrain and increasingly mountainous surroundings.

TIP: The fastest route is by crossing the border at Río Don Guillermo. The entire process typically takes 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic, and once completed, you’re free to continue into Chile toward Torres del Paine.

At the Argentine side, you’ll first stop at the customs office to present your documents, including your passport, vehicle registration, and a special cross-border permit if you're driving a rental car. Once cleared, you’ll proceed a short distance to the Chilean border station. Chile’s regulations are strict, especially regarding fresh produce and animal products, so ensure you’ve discarded any restricted items beforehand.






Refugio Francés

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