Overview
A short and sweet, highlights-only Torres del Paine experience. Hike and boat the famous W trail’s three major attractions. On this 3-day trip you’ll trek the French Valley, come close to the icy walls of Grey Glacier and hike to the Base of the famous Towers, while recharging each night in a private and intimate deluxe belle tent in our Riverside Camp.
Trip Highlights
• Hike the Challenging French Valley
• Get Up Close to Pristine Rivers, Glaciers, & Lakes
• Daily Panoramic Views
• Experience Wild Fauna in Their Natural Habitat
• Boat Navigation Across Iceberg-Dotted Grey Lake
• Trek to the Base of the Famous Three Towers
• Secluded Deluxe Belle Tent in Our Riverside Camp
DOWNLOAD YOUR MAPS:
• TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK MAP
• MAGALLANES & ANTARCTIC REGION
• PUERTO NATALES
DOWNLOAD YOUR PACK LIST:
• FAST TRACK W PACK LIST
• FAST TRACK W LIST DE COSAS RECOMENDADOS
Itinerary
Day 1
Transfer Puerto Natales – Round Trip Hike of the French Valley
- 2 Hours Private Transfer
- 35 Minutes by Catamaran Each Way
- 7-8 Hour Hike, 17 km / 10.5 mi
- 30 Minute Private Transfer
- Night at Chile Nativo’s Riverside Camp (BL-D)
Our day begins at 7:00AM in Puerto Natales where your guide and private transport picks you up from your hotel or accommodation.
As we travel to Torres del Paine along unpaved roads and past lagoons and pampas we are accompanied at times by the guanacos (relatives of llamas), grey foxes, Chilean flamingos and black-necked swans that call this region home.
Entering the National Park, we’ll cross Pehoe Lake by catamaran and arrive at the starting point of today’s return trek.
Our destination, the French Valley, is a spectacular natural basin surrounded by peaks and hanging glaciers.
At the entrance to the French Valley – a huge glacial moraine – you’ll scramble over boulders and catch the first sight of the hanging glacier atop the valley.
From this point, you’ll ascend for an hour through a dreamlike Japanese garden landscape before arriving at the French Valley viewpoint (the “Plateau”).
Your reward is a heart-stirring bird’s eye view of granite peaks and hanging glaciers.
To one side, the French Glacier and Paine Grande (3,050 m / 10,006 ft.); while to the other, La Espada, La Hoja, La Máscara and the main and north “horns” of Los Cuernos arch upwards. In the upper section of the Valley, Cerro Catedral and Cerro Fortaleza loom like turrets above the landscape.
Take your time to have lunch at the viewpoint, surrounded by these imposing peaks and open skies. Our return hike is along the same track.
We’ll take the short catamaran ride back across Pehoe Lake, and a 35 minute private transfer will drive us to Chile Nativo’s Riverside Camp.
A freshly prepared welcome dinner welcomes us as we share unforgettable views of the Paine Massif from the spacious dining lodge.
Turn in for the evening to your private double deluxe dome on the shores of the Serrano River.
This hike is demanding and many parts of the trail are steep. This trek is a minimum of 8 hours along challenging, rugged mountainous terrains. This trek is suitable for travelers with a strong physical stamina.
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Day 2
Round Trip Hike of the Pingo Valley – Glacier Grey Boat Navigation
- 30 Minute Private Transfer
- 3 Hour Hike, 10 km / 6.2 mi
- 3 Hour Boat Navigation
- 30 Minute Private Transfer
- Night at Chile Nativo’s Riverside Camp (B-BL-D)
Following a plentiful and fresh breakfast, our private transfer takes us along a 30 minute drive to the trailhead of our day´s trek of the Pingo Valley.
This 3-hour hike in the valley takes us to a breathtaking viewpoint at “Cascada los Salmones”, a waterfall where salmon are sometimes seen.
Be alert as we return – you may see the elusive huemul (Andean deer) hiding nearby! After a picnic lunch on the shores of the Pingo River we’ll make our way through a woodpecker-inhabited beech forest to our boat’s departure point.
The 3 hour-long boat trip takes us around blue-hued icebergs to the immense face of the Grey Glacier, where we’ll stay for a while to admire its textures, lines and colors.
If we’re lucky, we’ll witness a glacial calving, where chunks of ice break off and plummet spectacularly into the freezing waters.
On your return journey you’ll see the wind-sculpted “ice mushrooms” atop the massive peaks of Paine Grande. Later, we’ll drive to the Serrano River area where a gourmet meal and good night’s rest await us at our riverside camp.
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Day 3
Transfer to Las Torres – Round Trip Hike to Las Torres Lookout Point – Transfer to Puerto Natales
- 1.5 Hour Private Transfer
- 8-10 Hour Round-Trip Hike, 22km / 13.6 mi
- 2 hours by transfer (B-BL)
Our final day begins with a sight filled transfer across the National Park to the starting point for our trek to the famous three Towers lookout.
Your hike begins with an hour’s ascent following the Ascencio River into the Ascencio Valley. Here we’ll stop to observe how the valley’s beauty unfolds with rich beech forests, glaciers and waterfalls.
Past this lookout point, we continue uphill, this time ascending along a gigantic terminal moraine (a ridge formed at a glacier’s end point) where we’ll be rewarded by the arresting sight of the Towers themselves.
At this lookout point 900 meters (2,952 ft.) above sea level, we’ll rest, take photos and have lunch. Our descent follows the same path and our private transfer awaits to take us back to Puerto Natales where our journey ends.
This hike is demanding and many parts of the trail are steep. This trek is a minimum of 8 hours along challenging, rugged mountainous terrains. This trek is suitable for travelers with a strong physical stamina.
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INCLUDED
- All Private Transportation Indicated in Schedule
- Entrance Fee to Torres del Paine National Park
- Two Nights Lodging in Chile Nativo Riverside Camp (comfortable deluxe tents with 2 premium inflatable mattresses with fresh linens & bedding)
- Welcome Drink at Riverside Camp (PiscoSour, Glass of Wine, Beer, Sparkling Champagne)
- Round Trip Catamaran to Cross Pehoe Lake
- Round Trip Boat Navigation at Grey Lake
- All Meals Indicated in Schedule (B: Breakfast, BL: Box Lunch, D: Dinner)
- Guide(English-Spanish Languages), Guide to Passenger Ratio is 1:6
NOT INCLUDED
- Any Additional Nights
- Additional Alcoholic Beverages at Chile Nativo's Riverside Camp
- Medical Expenses
- Insurance of Any Kind
- Personal Expenses
- Gratuities for Guide/Driver
Lodgings
Riverside Camp
Far away from the crowded park refugios and campsites, Chile Nativo Riverside Camp is our fully supported base camp located in Torres del Paine National Park. This area is ideal for families and special groups setting off to the park or for those looking for an alternative and unique outdoor experience.
Dates & Prices
Program prices are determined on the final number of confirmed guests in a group. The per person price lowers as more guests join the group. Chile Nativo operates with a maximum of 8 guests per departure which allows for a high level of individualized service and an unforgettable personalized experience.
PRICES FOR SEASON 24/25 (valid until April 2025)
2 Guests Total in Group: USD$ 2.495 per person
3 Guests Total in Group: USD$ 2.095 per person
4-8 Guests Total in Group: USD$ 1.795 per person
OTHER DEPARTURE DATES AVAILABLE BY REQUEST
FTW
3 Days- 02/01/2025 / 04/01/2025
- 5 SPACES AVAILABLE
- Book
FTW
3 Days- 05/01/2025 / 07/01/2025
- 6 SPACES AVAILABLE
- Book
FTW
3 Days- 23/01/2025 / 25/01/2025
- 8 SPACES AVAILABLE
- Book
FTW
3 Days- 30/01/2025 / 01/02/2025
- 8 SPACES AVAILABLE
- Book
FTW
3 Days- 06/02/2025 / 08/02/2025
- 8 SPACES AVAILABLE
- Book
FTW
3 Days- 13/02/2025 / 15/02/2025
- 4 SPACES AVAILABLE
- Book
FTW
3 Days- 20/02/2025 / 22/02/2025
- CONFIRMED
- 4 SPACES AVAILABLE
- Book
FTW
3 Days- 27/02/2025 / 01/03/2025
- 4 SPACES AVAILABLE
- Book
FTW
3 Days- 06/03/2025 / 08/03/2025
- 6 SPACES AVAILABLE
- Book
FTW
3 Days- 09/03/2025 / 11/03/2025
- 6 SPACES AVAILABLE
- Book
FTW
3 Days- 21/03/2025 / 23/03/2025
- 4 SPACES AVAILABLE
- Book
FTW
3 Days- 27/03/2025 / 29/03/2025
- 8 SPACES AVAILABLE
- Book
FTW
3 Days- 27/04/2025 / 29/03/2025
- 8 SPACES AVAILABLE
- Book
FAQ's
Q: Will we need to carry all of our gear with us during the three day excursion or can we leave it at the lodgings/accommodations?
A: Any items that you won’t need during your program, guests are welcome to leave in our office in Puerto Natales. We will keep everything stored securely until your return back from your excursion and can also deliver this to your accommodation if you will be staying the night in Natales. Any luggage/backpacks that you will need to take into the park during your program, you can leave this in your private accommodation in our Riverside Camp or in the vehicle which will be transporting you each day.
Q: Are there restrooms and showers in the Riverside Camp?
A: Yes – there are 2 restrooms and 2 showers per gender in the bath house located in the camp. Hot water is available during the generator’s schedule which functions 08:00 – 23:00. We recommend that you shower at night since your mornings you will be starting early for your days’ excursion.
Q: What is the Riverside Camp like?
A: Check out the Riverside Camp’s webpage to learn more!
Q: Do the deluxe tents have outlets for charging devices? Are the tents heated?
A: Outlets for charging electric devices are only available inside the main lodge located within the camp. Electricity is available from 7AM to 11PM. Tents are not heated but include sleeping bags for added warmth.
Q: Can we choose to kayak during the Fast Track W during the Grey III Navigation?
A: Guests do have the option to kayak on the second day of the program for an additional charge. In order to take part in the kayak excursion at Refugio Grey, guests will disembark at the refugio without their guide and complete the 2.5 hour kayak excursion. For guests who choose to kayak, they will miss the guided hike of the Pingo Valley as the guide and other group members will continue this excursion as normal. After guests complete the kayak excursion, they will return back to the meeting point via the Grey III Navigation to return back to the Riverside Camp as a group.
Q: What time will we finish the trek and arrive back to Puerto Natales on the last day?
A: After completing the last hike to the base of the torres which is a long and vigorous trek, your chauffeur will transfer you all back to Puerto Natales arriving around 18:30hrs. This will allow you time to travel to take a bus Punta Arenas if needed!
Q: Should I tip my guide? If so – how much is appropriate?
A: Tipping can be a delicate subject and many different nationalities have different tipping cultures. Tips or propinas in Chile, are viewed as a reward for good service. When tipping, a good guide and guide assistance who does the job well, has good English and provides a great service, can expect 10 – 15 USD per person per day. It is usual to leave your driver or chauffeur a tip too. Normally around 5 USD per person. Please find below a tipping guide:
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Guides USD$ 10 to USD$ 15 per person, per day; to be given to your guides directly.
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Staff (waiters, chefs,Housekeeping USD$5 per person, per night
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Drivers: USD$10 per person, per day; given directly to your drivers.
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Porters: USD$10 per person, per day; given directly to your porter
These amounts are merely a source to help you or give you a general idea of what is normal or typical. Of course, tipping is always at the discretion of the group members as to what they deem appropriate for the service they received.
Add-Ons & Upgrades
PRIVATE DEPARTURES AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST – PLEASE CONTACT A TRIP SPECIALIST TO PLAN YOUR TREK!
OPTIONAL SERVICES:(must be booked in advance)
– Public Bus to/from Puerto Natales/Punta Arenas: USD$ 25 per person, per way
– Private Transfer to/from Punta Arenas/Puerto Natales: *Price depends on total number of guests – Please Contact A Trip Specialist
Reviews
Patagonia was the highlight of our travels and it was Chile Nativo’s guidance that made it so special.
Thanks again for all your help!
Greg & Cindy Forbes, Nova Scotia, CAN
I did a three day hiking trip. 2 days were light hikes and the third day was to the Towers. Stayed at Serrano Camp Site. I had problems getting into the country due to COVID testing and whoever rearranged my schedule did a good job. Gaby (our guide) had a great personality and was very knowledgeable about the area and the hikes. I was slower than others in the group and she stayed with me. I really appreciated that. She was awesome!
Fast Track W, Cheryl B., USA
The overall experience we had on the W-Trek tour exceeded our expectations and was the highlight of our 2-week trip! We thoroughly enjoyed the trip itinerary, hiking the various trails and getting to do different things (going on a boat, seeing glaciers, and seeing various wildlife). The camping experience was amazing! We enjoyed the comforts of heated yurts, warm showers, and restaurant quality food! The cooking staff was excellent, very entertaining and personable, great hospitality! The appetizers they prepared were some of our favorite dishes over our entire 2 week trip. The little touches like outlets, lotions, bed warmers, and staff friendliness made for a great stay! We would highly recommend this tour for someone interested in getting the full Patagonia experience. Great accommodations, great food, great people, and a once in a lifetime experience!
Fast Track W, Daniel T. & Family, USA
Every detail of the trip was seamless! Every transfer was on time, courteous and informative. The accommodations were perfect. The Fast Track domes were SO comfortable and the food amazing.
Fast Track W, Laura M., USA
Everything was fantastic! Our guide for the Fast Track was THE BEST and the meals and accommodations at the Riverside Camp were WONDERFUL! The trip was amazing, the customer service was great, and our guides were so helpful, knowledgable, and flexible. Thank you for an incredible journey.
Taylor Made & Fast Track W, Flavia B., USA
We have booked several trips in preparation of our holiday in Argentina an d Chile. Without any doubt your organisation is the most professional and empathic experience we had! World top !! They (guides) helped the less experienced hikers (myself) to surpass the harder parts. They were very well informed about the region. They kept a perfect balance between involving in conversations and keeping privacy. The little details (i.e. hot tea on a hike) were very much appreciated, those things help to make the difference. The free beer after a hike was great. If we plan to hike again in Patagonia you will be our first choice! An experience to remember for many years to come!
Fast Track W, Phillip V., Belgium
The trip was simply amazing with special thanks to our wonderful guides Chalo and Vale. I would highly recommend these two incredible people. I really liked the quick response on questions via mail.
Fast Track W, Davy D., Belgium
A superb and highly memorable trek. Everything was well organised. Itinerary was great. Food was excellent. “Challo” was the prefect guide. From the moment we first met him he was welcoming, enthusiastic and positive. Throughout the trek, he was very helpful, informative and always looked after the group. Huge thanks to Challo for making the trek such a superb experience. All went well pre-trip and Alicia’s communications were excellent and helpful!
Fast Track W, Ian L., United Kingdom
Patagonia is an expensive destination and we believe that the fast track W with Chile Nativo was great value for money. Rodrigo, our guide made our trip unforgettable. He is knowledgable, very professional and approachable. He ensured that the trip went smoothly at every stage. We cannot thank him enough for this wonderful experience. Nativo did not disappoint; we received excellent service at every stage of the booking process and during our trip.
Natalie P., United Kingdom
It was a great way to see as much of Torres as possible in a short amount of time. The sequencing of the activities was just right. Jorge, our guide handled everything with tact and patience. The man is a professional. He’s funny and kind and knowledgable. Top notch guide.
