CIRCUIT W

The W, which is the most famous and popular trek, takes in the valley leading to the foot of the Torres, then the Valle del Francés and finally along Grey Lake towards the glacier of the same name, returning to the park administration... or vice versa. In fact, the trek can be made in either direction, but the west-east route (from the park administration) is generally considered easier. The walk along Grey Lake is less demanding than the ascent to the Torres viewpoint, which requires a more sustained effort. However, the panoramas are often more spectacular in the east-west direction, especially the views of the Cuernos... The W circuit can be completed in four days for good walkers, or five days for hikers at a steady pace who want to take full advantage of the joy of early mornings in nature.

Practical tips and safety measures: make sure you're in good physical condition and have the right equipment for the hike. Weather conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared. As far as accommodation is concerned, campsites can fill up quickly during the high season (October to April), so we advise you to book in advance. Also be aware that rivers and streams in the park often offer drinking water, so bring a water bottle, flask or filtration system to replenish your water supply. Stay on the marked trails to avoid getting lost and preserve the environment. Beacons and information panels are there to guide you. Finally, always follow the park rangers' safety instructions: as a reminder, the use of fire or heat sources is forbidden within the park. In case of emergency, the number for contacting the park rangers is 133, who can help you in the event of an accident or other critical situation.

On the first day, from the Las Torres hotel, you can climb to the Las Torres campground in around 3 hrs 30 mins; a further 30-45 mins are needed to reach the lagoon and the Torres. That said, it's much more convenient to climb up and back down the same day. Don't be fooled into thinking that the campsites at the top are necessarily less crowded than those at the bottom: plenty of nice hikers will have the same idea as you, and by avoiding the crowds, you run the risk of finding them again.

On the second day, you can reach the Los Cuernos campsite, for a fee, or the Italiano campsite, free of charge. The hike offers magnificent views and is a good way to prepare for the Valle del Francés.

On the third day, we visit the wonderful Valle del Francés. Leave your belongings at the Campement Italiano, climb to the top and come back down to sleep in the same place. That said, if you slept the first night at the Hotel Las Torres campsite, you'll have had time the day before to reach the Campement Italiano in the early afternoon and visit the valley until sunset. Lovers of wide-open spaces and solitude will spend the night at Campement Británico.

On the fourth day, you can move on to the Grey hut and camp, superbly situated on the lakeshore and, above all, conveniently timed. It's a 5-hour walk from Campement Italiano via Lodge Cerro Paine. The afternoon is perfect for strolling around the glacier and admiring its colors.

On the fifth day, return to the Paine Grande Lodge and take the catamaran to the Puedeto hut, or walk to the administration office. Remember to check the bus timetable for your return, especially if you choose to walk to the administration office. Early departure from Grey camp is recommended to avoid rushing.