We'll depart from Puerto Natales at 6:30 AM heading toward Torres del Paine National Park. Along the way, we'll pass by estancias and open pampas—get ready to be amazed by the stunning landscapes, flora, and fauna of Patagonia. Don't forget your camera! Upon arrival at the refugio, you'll be able to leave your luggage before starting the full-day hike to the Base of the Towers.
We'll begin the hike by entering the Ascencio Valley, gradually ascending until we reach the Windy Pass. This section is as breathtaking as it is exposed, with strong wind gusts, so it's essential to follow your guide's instructions to cross safely.
Just a few minutes ahead, we'll arrive at Refugio Chileno, the last point on the trail with bathrooms, food for purchase, and internet access. Be sure to bring cash if…
Depending on the weather, our morning may be lit by the soft oranges and pinks of a Patagonian sunrise. We'll hike toward the base of the Paine Horns, where monumental twin black granite peaks rise dramatically into the sky.
Along the way, we'll pass by Inge Lagoon and may spot condors and other birds of prey soaring overhead as we walk below. The well-marked trail ascends about 200 meters from the base of Cerro Almirante Nieto and crosses the Bader River, leading us to either Refugio Los Cuernos or Refugio Francés.
Today we'll face a challenging hike into the heart of the Paine Massif. After breakfast, a winding trail awaits us, leading to the French River.
At the entrance of the French Valley, we'll gradually ascend for about an hour, where you'll catch your first glimpse of the hanging glacier at the top of the valley, until we reach the French Valley viewpoint: La Plateau.
We'll take our time to enjoy lunch at the viewpoint, surrounded by the imposing Cerro Catedral and Cerro Fortaleza, under a vast open sky. Afterwards, we'll descend back down the same trail to Paine Grande.
We'll start the morning hiking up the winding trail to Laguna de los Patos. There, we'll see sections of the vast Southern Patagonian Ice Field, a geological phenomenon that still holds unexplored peaks.
We'll continue to the Grey Glacier viewpoint, passing through forests and rivers, with the chance to spot southern crested ducks. Lunch will be served with the monumental Grey Glacier at our feet, where we'll likely witness ice calving from its massive walls.
In the afternoon, there's an optional half-day kayaking excursion where you can paddle around floating icebergs detached from the glacier's face.
The last day begins with a free morning to stretch, relax, and breathe in the scenery. You'll have the option to visit the Hanging Bridges, take a kayak ride, or go ice hiking on Grey Glacier.
After lunch, we'll set off by boat across Lake Grey to the enormous wall of Grey Glacier. We'll spend time admiring its textures, lines, and colors.
On the return journey, as you move away, the perspective will allow you to appreciate the 'ice mushrooms' sculpted by the wind atop the imposing peaks of Paine Grande, as we sail past blue-hued icebergs.
Back on solid ground, we'll hike about 20 minutes along Grey Beach to meet our private transport that will take us back to Puerto Natales, where our journey ends.
Due to the region's unpredictable weather, the Grey Navigation may be canceled. If this …
Variants
Pricing
FAQs
- Pre-trip informational meeting with your private guide
- 4 to 8 travelers: All private transport indicated in the schedule / 1 to 3 travelers: Regular bus + Shuttle IN and Regular Bus OUT
- Entrance to Torres del Paine National Park
- Four nights of accommodation in campsites or mountain lodges based on availability (Lodges: comfortable rooms with 6 beds and shared bathrooms for men and women)
- Sleeping bag for lodge accommodation / sleeping bag, mat, and tent for camping accommodation
- 4 to 8 travelers: One-way navigation by boat on Grey Lake / 1 to 3 travelers: One-way navigation by catamaran on Pehoé Lake
- All meals specified in the itinerary (B: breakfast, BL: box lunch, D: dinner)
- Guide (English-Spanish). The passenger-to-guide ratio is 1:6.
This program can be complemented with other experiences, allowing you to create a more complete and elevated adventure.
- Puma Tracking
- The Fjord Trail
- The tour operator is an active tourism company based in Chilean Patagonia, specializing in private, small group, and tailor-made programs. We design hands-on experiences that offer a unique connection with the local community and culture.
- We recommend purchasing a travel insurance plan to be prepared for any unexpected events or emergencies.
- The tour operator supports the conservation and sustainable development of Patagonia. That is why for every tour booked to Torres del Paine, they donate $15 to the Torres del Paine Legacy Fund. Additionally, we collaborate with local communities, support small businesses, and sponsor two rural schools.
5 days
Classic W Trek
- Day 1: Round-trip hike to the Base of the Towers
- Day 2: Toward the Paine Horns through condor territory
- Day 3: Through the dramatic French Valley to Lake Pehoé
- Day 4: Heading to the majestic Grey Glacier
- Day 5: Exploring Grey Glacier and return among icebergs and mountains