We will start this adventure from the closest city to Puerto Natales.
Day 1. Arrival in Puerto Natales and accommodation at Hostal Factoría
Day 2. Arrival at Torres del Paine National Park - Hike to Mirador Base Torres
Today`s hike begins in the Ascencio Valley, enjoying its extensive forests. During the final ascent, you will cross an immense field of giant rocks until you reach one of the most emblematic viewpoints in the world, the famous "Mirador Base Torres". At an altitude of 900 meters above sea level, marvel at the 3 granite towers (north, central and south) and the brilliant turquoise glacial lake at their feet. Take photos, enjoy, eat something and begin the return journey along the same route. Enjoy the delicious dinner at the shelter and then go to rest.
* Distance: 22 km.
* Time: 8 to 10 hrs.
* Difficulty level: Very demanding.
* Accommodation: Shelter (single bed) or camping.
* Meals: Box lunch and dinner.
Day 3. Grey Glacier
Today`s trekking begins, so have breakfast first and don`t forget your box lunch. The hike begins through a narrow, winding valley that leads to Laguna Los Patos. As you continue hiking, you`ll begin to see parts of the immense Southern Ice Fields, as well as the ice floes of Grey Lake. After passing the windy viewpoint, the trail descends through a mountainous forest until you reach the Grey Refuge. From here, if you continue walking for about 10 minutes, you`ll reach the Grey Glacier viewpoint, where you`ll come face to face with this mass of blue ice. Dinner will be served at the refuge between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM.
If you still have energy, as an optional extra you can make an unforgettable visit to the Grey Glacier, you need to reserve about 3 to 4 extra hours (round trip) past the refuge in the direction of the famous Hanging Bridges. It is by far the best viewpoint of the glacier. In addition to contemplating the impressive ice, you can see the depths of the ravines formed by the rivers and waterfalls that come from the Olguín Range. If you`re lucky, you might see ice breaking off the glacier into the cold waters of Lake Grey.
The trek is about 4 km long in total and is of medium difficulty.
* Distance: 11 km
* Time: 4 – 4.5 hrs
* Difficulty level: Medium
* Accommodation: Shelter (made up bed) or camping Grey
* Meals: Breakfast, box lunch, and dinner
Day 4. Hike to Paine Grande
If you were unable to visit the hanging bridges the previous afternoon, or were too tired, you can take the morning of this day to explore the spectacular panoramic views of the Grey Glacier. Then, continue the same trail back to Paine Grande to take the catamaran at 5:00 PM to Pudeto, from where you can take the bus back to Puerto Natales at 6:00 PM. The approximate time of arrival in Natales is 21:15 hrs.
* Distance: 11 kms
* Time: 4 – 4.5 hrs
* Difficulty level: Media
* Meals: Breakfast and box lunch
Day 5. Explore the French Valley
We recommend starting early! This special hike will take you to the heart of Torres del Paine National Park. After breakfast, don`t forget to order your box lunch and get ready to be dazzled by the stunning Patagonian landscapes. After a two-hour hike, you`ll pass the Francés campsite and arrive at the entrance to the French Valley. You can leave your backpack at the Italiano campsite, where the park rangers are located, and begin your ascent to the French Valley.
Climb over large boulders and then continue through the forest until you reach the Francés viewpoint. Here you`ll be rewarded with incredible views of Los Cuernos, turquoise glacial lagoons, and astonishing hanging glaciers tumbling down the east face of Paine Grande Mountain (3,050 m). If you`re lucky, you may hear the thunderous sound of the glacier and falling water, and it`s also very common to witness an avalanche. Enjoy your box lunch and a well-deserved rest. Descend the same trail back to Camp Italiano.
From here, walk to the Paine Grande refuge (2.5 hours). Take it easy as it`s mostly flat. At night you can enjoy a delicious dinner at the shelter.
* Distance: Mirador Francés 17 km
* Time: 6 to 7 hrs
* Difficulty level: Demanding
* Accommodation: Shelter (made up bed) or Paine Grande campsite
* Meals: Breakfast, box lunch and dinner