HIKING THE W CIRCUIT IN PATAGONIA: WHAT NO-ONE TELLS YOU

Hiking the Torres del Paine circuit is a dream come true for anyone heading to Patagonia. Hearing so much about how amazing the W Circuit is from fellow travellers, it seemed like the thing to do.

As a solo traveller, pretty new to hiking, I wanted to experience as much as possible in Patagonia within my reach. The O Circuit which is typically done by more experienced trekkers was a definite no-no for me. So I considered doing the W Circuit, typically 4 nights and 5 days through Torres del Paine, I was lucky to be able to snap up last-minute spots on the trek.

Here are 5 things that would have been useful to have known before the trek:

1. It’s not 100% necessary to book 6 months in advance

Yep... You heard it! Whilst if you do have you heart set on doing this trek, it's advisable to book in advance, many people I'd met on the trek booked last minute.

I did the trail beginning of December and there were a week's worth of spots available. Last minute cancellations occur all the time. Many travellers can regret their decision to book in advance as it can mean other parts of their trip short are cut short in order to be in Puerto Natales on a specific date.

If you're set on using the free campsites or camping with your own equipment, it is advisable to book ahead as these are the most popular. However camping with borrowed equipment and even beds in the refugios were often available last minute or left empty!

Base Towers

2. You can totally get lost

As much as the trail is well indicated, you can totally head off in the wrong direction. And it's a little unnerving when you do.

On the way up from Italiano to Valle Frances, not only did I get lost once, but twice!! If this does happen, retrace your steps back to the last control markings you saw and try to figure it out from there. It's not always obvious but go with your gut.

If you're going up some slippery slopes or you no longer see the trail, chances are you're not on the right path.

3. You don’t have to do the entire trek in 3/4 nights

If you're quick on your toes, 3 nights is sufficient, 4 nights gives a little more time to cover all the ground. However, if you need to, you can extend and hike the W Circuit in 5-7 nights or even more, enjoying and experiencing the trail at more of a leisurely pace.

If you fancy kayaking up to Glacier Grey, why not spend an extra night at Refugio Grey.

Glacier Grey

4. You can book or change accommodation options in the park

My first night was booked at Chileano and my second night was booked at Central. I quickly realised on my first night that there was really little interest in hiking down to Central for my second night. After checking availability, they changed it at the reception.

Equally, I met two brothers hiking the O circuit and booking everything as they went!!

Just be aware that it's easier to do if your next destination is with the same company. Fantastico Sur will typically change or book accommodation for sites they own and same with Vertices.

5. To get the best view of the glacier, hike to the second suspension bridge

Going from east to west, I spent my last night in Refugio Paine Grande. On my last day, I was supposed to hike to the second mirador to see Glacier Grey and be back in time to catch the 6:30 pm catamaran.

Whilst the second mirador is great, if you have it in you on your last day of hiking, get up early and head to the second suspension bridge. It's located an extra one and a half hours past Refugio Grey and has the best view of the glacier!!

Leave early to give yourself plenty of time. In my case, just keep walking and don't stop until you get there! I left at 6:30 am, arrived at the first suspension bridge at 10:15 am and the second suspension bridge at 11:00 am. Given how exhausted I was by the second day, so happy to have made it!!

Torres del Paine

Running over the second suspension bridge

Planning a trip or fancy a freebie? These are some websites and services I love:

Booking.com: For the best hotel deals! 🏝

World Nomads: Travel insurance on the go 🌎

Airbnb: For the best apartment deals!🏡

Affiliate links above!

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