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With thanks to Almis Simankevicius
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OVERVIEW
Walking the “W” circuit in Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia is becoming a popular trek. Perhaps one of the last great wilderness regions left on the planet, Patagonia is a truly unbelievable place. The glaciers, the towers of granite and slate, the mists and snows are almost unbelievable to us city and suburban folk. The national park was established in 1959, extended in 1962 and renamed “Torres del Paine”. The centerpiece of the park is the Paine Massif, the remnant of a vast expanse of pink granite. The word “Paine” is a Tehuelchan Indian word meaning “blue.” |
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CLIMATE
The best time to visit the national park is during the Patagonian summer between December and March. Because it is so far South, the days are long and warm. However, the weather can change abruptly so be prepared. The Patagonian winds are notorious for their persistence and temperatures can drop to below zero during the night. |
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EXPERIENCE
The trek involves perspiration but is well worth the effort, especially the final rock scramble to Torres Base to witness the spectacle of the three towers bathed in sunlight above a jade-green glacial lake. At the other end of the trek, the glacier at the end of Lake Grey is astounding and it is possible to take a walking excursion upon it. Evenings in the refugios and hosterias are a lot of fun with other walkers, many from all parts of the globe including local Chilenos. A full board accommodation provides bed, breakfast, lunch and dinner. Wine and coffee are extra. |
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FITNESS LEVEL
Although the ‘W’ circuit is a relatively short alpine trek of five days a medium level of fitness is still required. As is true of any walking journey, the higher your levels of fitness the more you will enjoy the experience. A great physical preparation would begin at least six weeks before your departure and include walking for at least two hours per day for four days a week, and as many full-day walks as you can manage. |
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RECOMMENDED CLOTHING
Remember to take equipment that is as light as possible, including Gore-Tex trousers and jacket as well as comfortable waterproof boots. Try to take windproof layers wherever possible and a down jacket can be handy for cold nights. Sunglasses, sunhat, beanie and gloves are necessities. You will need to take a sleeping bag or hire one at the refugios. Take only what you need for the five days, as you can leave the rest of your luggage at your accommodation in Puerto Natales. |
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SAMPLE ITINERARY
- DAY 1 Coach from Pt. Natales to Hosteria Grey and ferry to Refugio Grey.
- DAY 2 Walk from Refugio Grey to Paine Grande Lodge. 11km 4hrs.
- DAY 3 Walk from Paine Grande Lodge to Camp Britanico, then to Refugio Cuernos. 24km 9.5hrs.
- DAY 4 Walk from Refugio Cuernos to Refugio Chileno. 12km 5hrs.
- DAY 5 Walk to base of Torres del Paine, then to Torres Hosteria, return to Pt. Natales. 9km 6hrs.
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