The Ultimate Guide to Hiking the ‘W’ Trek in Torres del Paine

Hiking in Torres del Paine National Park is one of the absolute highlights of a visit to Patagonia – I should know, I’ve done it twice!

– A tent – A sleeping bag – A sleeping pad  – A headlamp  – A cooking stove and gas  – Cooking pots

What equipment do you need to hike the W without a tour?

Make sure you’ve got the $25,000 CLP in cash; they don’t accept cards. Bring a photocopy of your passport just in case you need to prove you're a foreigner.

Day One: Puerto Natales to Grey

You’ll arrive at Paine Grande at around 4pm, which is where you’ll spend the night. The facilities are great here, with a covered dining area for campers.

Day Two: Grey to Paine Grande

If you’re feeling energetic, and the weather’s playing fair, you can continue climbing to Mirador Británico.

Day Three: Paine Grande to Francés

The views are incredible but if it’s sunny, it will be hot!

Day Four: Francés to El Chileno*

Wake up and take a small bag to see the torres at dawn. Don’t forget your torch as the route is over rocks and can be treacherous.

Day Five: El Chileno* to Laguna Amarga and Puerto Natales

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