A Transformative Five-Day W Trek Through Patagonia: Torres del Paine National Park

Day one begins with the hike toward Glacier Grey. The trail starts easy but quickly turns more rugged with steady climbs and changing elevation. About two hours in, you’ll catch a first glimpse of an iceberg, followed by sweeping views along a cliffside path that leads to Refugio Grey. Your overnight stay includes a pre-set tent and a hearty four-course dinner. Just a short walk from camp lies one of the most impressive views of Glacier Grey: a sprawling ice field that stretches more than 28 kilometers.

On day two, you’ll return down the same trail to Refugio Paine Grande. A packed lunch is provided at breakfast (ours included a tuna sandwich, fruit, and snacks), and while the route is familiar, the weather often keeps things interesting. On our trek, rain and wind made for a challenging but memorable journey. A hot shower and a warm fire await at the refugio—a welcome comfort at this point in the journey.

From here, the trail becomes more demanding. Over the next two days, you'll cross suspension bridges, pass roaring waterfalls, and climb toward the French Valley. Along the way, you’ll leave your pack at a base camp before ascending to Mirador Francés for a panoramic view of glaciers, emerald hillsides, and snow-dusted peaks. It’s a challenging section, but the reward is extraordinary.

The following day leads to Refugio Chileno, one of the most special and sought-after stays in the park. Situated on the approach to the Torres, it reduces the time needed for the famous sunrise hike. Supplies are delivered by horses, and daily weather updates are posted each morning in all refugios to help hikers plan. The trek to reach it takes around 5.5 hours, often across open plains and through fierce winds. Arriving feels like an accomplishment in and of itself.

The final morning begins before sunrise, with most hikers departing around 4 am. After requesting a packed breakfast the night before, you’ll head out under a blanket of darkness, guided only by headlamps and the occasional birdsong. The initial stretch is calm, but the trail soon turns steep and technical, with nearly 3,000 feet of elevation gain and a final boulder scramble to reach the viewpoint. At the top, just as the light breaks, the Torres reveal themselves: three towering granite spires reflected in icy turquoise water. The wind is sharp, the air still, and the silence unforgettable.

The descent is no less demanding, and the final stretch down to the park entrance is all downhill. Once at the bus station, you’ll join fellow trekkers—many now familiar faces from the trail—sharing stories and quietly taking in what you’ve just accomplished. As you board the bus to leave the park, you’ll feel a deep sense of pride and gratitude—for the landscapes you’ve walked through, the people you’ve met, and the strength you didn’t know you had until now.