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Short W Trek | Eco Camp

5 Days
From USD 3,265

Trip Code: CLTSSWP

DIFFICULTY RATING: 4 (Active Adventure - Reasonable Fitness Required)

DestinationDestination

Chile, Patagonia

DestinationDeparture Date

 Sundays

TransportAccommodation

Trekking Lodge with Tents and Eco Camp



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OVERVIEW

Take on the challenge of the W Trek, one of the world's great treks. A mind-blowing run of twisted volcanic peaks, tumbling glaciers and aquamarine lakes, it zigzags across the Cordillera del Paine like a giant W. This is the right trip for energetic people who like to be active and have a spirit of adventure and a positive attitude.  This short version of the W trek will take you on trails reaching amazing glaciers, lakes, forests and the mighty Paine Towers, providing constant delight to your trekking-hungry soul! 

The EcoCamp Experience

Let yourself experience the first one of its kind in the world - EcoCamp Lodge. Located in the heart of Torres del Paine National Park, EcoCamp perfectly fits its pristine surroundings. Modelled on the ancient shelters of the region’s Kaweskar people, the dome styled accommodation is made from renewable materials and offers big panoramic windows to catch as much daylight and reduce electricity usage. The camp is also powered by solar panels and battery banks help to reduce the negative tourism footprint in Patagonia and preserve its pristine and uniqueness. While still considering nature, you can enjoy cozy and spacious domes, socialize during yoga classes or in community domes with other visitors. In order to cherish the surrounding nature, activities like multi-sport adventures, wildlife watching and a variety of hiking and walking trails are provided for your comfort. Eco Camp has many itineraries to choose from, including 7 day W Trek

ITINERARY

Arrival at Eco Camp

In the morning, you will be picked up by a local representative either from Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales and taken to EcoCamp Patagonia, located in the world-renowned Torres del Paine National Park. Upon arrival at the Eco Camp, you will be immediately greeted by the breathtaking beauty of our surroundings. The camp blends seamlessly with the natural environment, and the eco-friendly design of the lodging domes is inspired by the traditional huts built by the Kawesqar, the indigenous people of the region. Don't let their simple appearance fool you - these domes offer comfort and protection from the elements.

After settling in, we gather for a delicious dinner and a warm welcome from our hosts. Over the course of the evening, we receive a comprehensive briefing on the exciting activities available both at the camp and in the surrounding park. Whether you're interested in hiking, kayaking, or simply taking in the stunning natural beauty, our knowledgeable guides will help you plan your adventure.

*While most activities are included in your stay at our Eco-camp, a limited number of extra cost activities are available for you to choose from. These optional activities are at your discretion, and any fees associated with them will be paid locally.

The Heart of the Paine Massif: French Valley

Our second day at Torres del Paine National Park begins with a hearty breakfast, followed by a drive to Pudeto dock where we will board a catamaran to Pehoe. Once we reach our destination, we will embark on a challenging trek to the Valle Frances (French Valley). The trail is steep, leading us to the heart of the Paine Massif. The group's trekking rhythm will determine how far we will go. We can expect stunning views of the valley from the hanging bridge over the French River, located at the foot of the Massif's southeastern face. We will continue our trek towards the upper section of the valley, marveling at the extensive mass of the geological formations. Later, we'll stop for a picnic and enjoy the breathtaking views of the valley. The day's trek will end with a descent through a mixed grassland and light forest, leading us to Paine Grande campsite, situated on the serene shores of Lake Pehoe. Upon arrival, we'll receive a briefing on tomorrow's trek.

* The excursion to French Valley varies throughout the season depending on the catamaran connecting Pudeto and Refugio Pehoe: From October 1st to 31st and from April 1st to 30th the navigation operates only once a day, therefore the hike will be limited and only reach Italian campsite depending on the passengers walking pace. From November 1th to March 30th the excursion operates on a regular basis.

* If you wish to upgrade from camping to a refugio stay for this night, please enquire at time of booking to check availability. An additional cost applies and is subject to availability.

Grey Glacier Trek & Boat Ride

In the morning, we'll embark on a scenic hike from Paine Grande Refugio, following the picturesque shoreline of Lake Pehoe towards the northern side of the stunning Lake Grey. We'll pause for a picnic lunch before boarding a boat that sails directly to the face of Glacier Grey. While on the boat, you can sip on a refreshing drink with fresh glacier ice and marvel at the unreal views of this beautiful glacier. In case the boat trip is canceled due to unforeseen circumstances, we'll trek up to a sightseeing point to enjoy panoramic views of the glacier instead. After the boat ride, we'll transfer to EcoCamp.

*Please be aware that boat trips may be canceled if the minimum number of 10 passengers has not been reached. If this is the case, we will trek up to the sightseeing point to enjoy panoramic views of the glacier instead. Then we will return on foot to Paine Grande and take a catamaran to the dock, where we will be picked up and driven to EcoCamp.

Torres del Paine

On the fifth day of our adventure, we'll embark on the most renowned trekking trail in Torres del Paine National Park. Although it's a challenging hike, the breathtaking views are definitely worth the effort! We'll set off from the campsite towards Hostería Las Torres and ascend to the eastern face of Ascencio Valley. Along the way, we'll pass by picturesque mountain ridges, beech forests, and small rivers. Our main challenge will be to conquer the steep moraine, a massive collection of boulders that will lead us to the iconic base-view of the Towers. These three towering granite monoliths are all that remains of a once-great cirque sheared away by glacial ice. As we ascend the moraine, the towers will slowly come into view, rising majestically before us with the glacial lake visible below. We'll stop for a well-deserved lunch in one of the world's most stunning settings before retracing our steps through Ascencio Valley and returning to EcoCamp for a sumptuous dinner and a glass of fine Chilean wine.

Departe Eco Camp

After your final breakfast at the lodge, you will be transferred to either El Calafate airport or your hotel in the city for your ongoing travels.

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WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS ITINERARY

  • Be amazed by the skyrocketing mountains, deep blue glaciers, and hauntingly beautiful forests of Torres del Paine National Park on this shorter version of the world-renowned W Trek.

  • Stay at the unique EcoCamp, the world’s first fully sustainable geodesic dome hotel. A truley spectacular piece of comfort and luxury to enhance your adventure.

  • Team up with our highly experienced and knowledgeable guides to head off on one of the most famous treks in the world, ending each day with spectacular sights, delicious meals, and comfortable nighttime accommodations. While you are away from the Eco Camp base you will stay in more basic tents, but there is the ability to upgrade to guesthouse accommodation with bunks for these nights at an additional cost. 

  • Learn all the local secrets from our knowledgeable guides and discover the unique Fauna and Flora.

Accommodation

We believe that appropriate accommodation should add to the authentic travel experience, as well as providing utmost enjoyment. For that reason our accommodation is scrutinised by our staff on the ground frequently, ensuring the properties adhere to our high standards. This key will help you understand the levels of accommodation available on this tour.

Standard

Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.

Superior

Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.

Deluxe

Luxurious properties with impeccable facilities and service.

Pricing per person & date

Short W Trek | Eco Camp from USD 3,265
 Sundays

Important Information

    • All ground transport as indicated in the itinerary
    • One expert English/Spanish speaking trekking guide
    • Cueva del Milodon and Torres del Paine NP fees
    • 3 nights accommodation in EcoCamp standard domes (shared basis)
    • 1 night accommodation at Refugio Paine Grande** (shared basis in tents) shared bunk cabin upgrades can be booked at an additional cost subject to availability 
    • Boat crossing over Lake Pehoe** and Lake Grey**
    • Sleeping bag for the mountain refuge camps if needed
    • Luggage transport: while trekking you will carry just your daypack
    • Meals:

    day 1: L, D
    day 2: B, BL, D
    day 3: B, BL, D
    day 4: B, BL, D
    day 5: B, BL
    B: breakfast, BL: box lunch, L: lunch, D: dinner.

    **During Shoulder  and low season (October and April), some excursions are subject to the weather conditions and might be cancelled or modified for reasons of security, for example the Navigation on Grey Lake, the excursion to the French Valley and to the Tower base trek. In any case we will either modify the original itinerary or offer you a good alternative of excursion within the park.

    Excluded
    Flight tickets
    Insurance (it is mandatory you purchase appropriate insurance for this trip)
    Voluntary tipping of guides and staff
    Soft drinks or snacks not served with the meals included at the EcoCamp. Bringing US$ in cash for buying extra drinks/snacks or souvenirs in Torres del Paine NP is recommended
    Items of a personal nature

  • 4 (Active Adventure - Reasonable Fitness Required)
  • Available upon request

  • Website price based on shoulder season rate (Oct and April) - surcharge applies for high season and peak season.

    While you are away from the Eco Camp base you will stay in more basic tents, but there is the ability to upgrade to guesthouse accommodation with bunks for these nights at an additional cost and subject to availability. Please speak to one of our Destination Specialists for more information. 

    Trip code: PAT 026

  • Availability, Seasonality, Accommodation Standard and Currency Fluctuations.