Trekking W in Torres del Paine: 5 days, 4 nights, no illusion

Step by step, essential gear, reservations in 2026, and the truth about sunrise at the towers.

1. Trekking W in Torres del Paine: 5 days, 4 nights, no illusion

   Step by step, essential gear, reservations in 2026, and the truth about sunrise at the towers.

2. 01.

   The W is 71-78 km total (depending on the variant), 5 days and 4 nights, with a cumulative elevation gain of 4,200 m positive.

3. 02.

   Reservations at CONAF refuges (Paine Grande, Cuernos, Chileno, Torres Central) open in July of the previous year and sell out in weeks for December-February.

4. 03.

   Mid-cut trekking boots with Vibram sole (Salomon X-Ultra 4 Mid GTX or La Sportiva Ultra Raptor) and a 50L backpack with an adjustable load system are non-negotiable.

5. 04.

   The ideal window is October to mid-March; November and March are the best months (fewer people, still strong but predictable wind).

6. 05.

   Sunrise at Mirador Las Torres fails 60% of the days due to clouds — book an extra night at Refugio Chileno to try two mornings.

7. Continue lendo

   Step by step, essential gear, reservations in 2026, and the truth about sunrise at the towers.