The W Circuit gets its name from the shape it forms on the map: an uppercase W amidst the majesty of Torres del Paine National Park.

Images that challenge description and landscapes that will steal your breath: that's what awaits you on the W Express Circuit in Torres del Paine, a corner of Chilean Patagonia that deserves to be explored. In this adventure, you won't find words capable of conveying the magnificence of the views, the emotion that the surroundings evoke, and the wonder you'll experience while walking among towering mountains and deep valleys.

The W Express Circuit, named for the shape of its route, is the most famous in Torres del Paine for a reason: on its journey, you can admire all the wonders that this park has to offer. From the Base Las Torres Viewpoint to Los Cuernos, passing through the Valle del Francés, Paine Grande, and the Grey Glacier, every step and every stop will be moments that will be etched in the showcase of your most cherished memories.

The places you'll visit

The biggest advantage of undertaking this trek is that you can experience the most impressive attractions of Torres del Paine National Park in just a few days. We detail them below:

  • The Towers: These three majestic granite peaks, with heights of 2,840m, 2,800m, and 2,600m, are iconic and have been shaped by glacial force. The Towers are a sight that will leave you breathless.

  • The Horns (Los Cuernos): These three mountains, with heights of 2,600m, 2,400m, and 2,200m, compete in beauty with the Torres del Paine. Their different types of rock create a stunning contrast.

  • French Valley: This viewpoint in the middle of the W Circuit offers unparalleled views of Los Cuernos, the French Glacier, and more. The valley is surrounded by a changing Nothofagus forest full of flowers and vegetation.

  • Cerro Paine Grande: With its four summits, Paine Grande is recognized as one of the most beautiful mountains in the world, with its highest peak reaching 3,050 meters.

  • Grey Glacier: The largest glacier in the park, measuring 6 km wide, 30 meters high, and 19 km long. Its icebergs and glacial moraines are equally as impressive as the glacier itself.

How to do the W Express Trekking

The 4-day, 3-night W Express trekking allows you to experience this incredible journey in a remarkably comprehensive way in just a few days. It begins early on the first day and includes a hike to the Base Las Torres Viewpoint on the same day of your arrival at the park.

The best part is that you can customize your adventure. You have the option to camp in the wilderness, stay in a refuge with beds and delicious food, or even enjoy a private room in a hotel. The W Circuit can be physically and mentally challenging, but here you will find luxuries like comfortable beds, hot showers, hearty meals, and supply points along the way.

A summary of the itinerary:

  • Day 1: Regular bus transportation from Puerto Natales to Torres del Paine, followed by a trek to the Base Las Torres Viewpoint and accommodation in the Central Sector.

  • Day 2: Hike to the Francés Sector and accommodation.

  • Day 3: Trek to the Valle del Francés, followed by accommodation in the Francés Sector.

  • Day 4: Trek to the first viewpoint of the Grey Glacier and an exciting return by catamaran across Lake Pehoé to return to Puerto Natales.

With the W Express trek, you not only embark on an unforgettable journey but also fulfill a dream through the natural treasures of Chilean Patagonia. Experience the majesty of Torres del Paine at its finest, and prepare to carry memories that will last a lifetime. If you want more information and to live the experience, contact czuniga@gochile.cl.

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