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W Circuit: Patagonia's Iconic Trek

Hike the W Circuit in Torres del Paine National Park, and experience Patagonia's breathtaking landscapes, granite peaks, glaciers, and turquoise lakes.

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The W Circuit is a world-renowned trekking route in Chile's Torres del Paine National Park, famed for its stunning Patagonian landscapes, including granite peaks, glaciers, and turquoise lakes. This multi-day hike is a 'must-do' for adventure travelers seeking an unforgettable experience in one of the world's most beautiful wilderness areas.

A brief summary to W Circuit - Trekking in Patagonia

  • Monday 10 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-8 pm
  • Friday 10 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Book accommodations and park entrance tickets well in advance, especially during peak season (November to March), as they tend to sell out quickly.
  • Pack for all types of weather, including waterproof gear, warm layers, and sturdy hiking boots, as Patagonian weather can be unpredictable.
  • Download a GPS map of the trail beforehand, as the terrain is untouched, and it's easy to get lost, even though the trail is generally well-marked.
  • Consider hiking east to west to have the more challenging parts of the hike at the beginning when your legs are fresh.
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Getting There

  • Bus and Catamaran

    To begin the W Circuit, start by taking a bus from Puerto Natales to Torres del Paine National Park. Several bus companies offer daily services, with the journey to the park entrance at Laguna Amarga taking approximately 2.5 hours. From Laguna Amarga, a shuttle bus can take you to the eastern starting point of the trek. Alternatively, the bus continues to Pudeto, where you can catch a catamaran across Lake Pehoé to reach Paine Grande, the western starting point. Bus tickets from Puerto Natales to Torres del Paine cost around CLP 8,000-10,000. The catamaran fare is approximately CLP 26,000.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Puerto Natales, and can be used to get to the bus station. A taxi ride within Puerto Natales should cost around CLP 4. From the Puerto Natales bus station, you can then take a bus to Torres del Paine National Park.

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Discover more about W Circuit - Trekking in Patagonia

The W Circuit in Torres del Paine National Park is a 71 km (44 miles) trekking route that forms a 'W' shape on the map, linking the park's most iconic sights. The trek typically takes 4 to 5 days to complete, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience for hikers of various skill levels. The circuit showcases the dramatic Patagonian landscape, including the towering granite peaks of the Torres del Paine massif, the shimmering turquoise waters of Lake Nordenskjöld, the imposing Grey Glacier, and the serene French Valley. The W Circuit is more than just a hike; it's an immersive experience in nature. Hikers can choose to camp under the stars or stay in refugios (mountain lodges) along the way. The trail offers a sense of camaraderie as hikers share the same paths and refugios, creating a unique backpacking atmosphere. While the trek can be physically demanding, the stunning views and the sense of accomplishment make it an unforgettable adventure. The best time to hike the W Circuit is during the Patagonian summer (November to March), when the weather is milder, and the days are longer, but be prepared for unpredictable conditions, including strong winds and sudden changes in weather.

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