Torres del Paine look-out (via Valle Ascensio)
Trekking up Valle Ascencio to arrive at the Torres del Paine lookout is the highlight of the W Circuit or Full Circuit in Torres del Paine National park. Located at the East of the park, this viewpoint looks straight out onto the three granite 'torres' from which the park takes its name and beneath them, a still grey-blue lake.
After having made the 2-hour journey by bus or private transfer into Torres del Paine National Park from Puerto Natales the day before, this day-trek up to the look-out (which is included in almost every operator's itinerary) starts from the base of Ascencio Valley, at Refugio Las Torres/Camping las Torres or Hotel Las Torres.
The hike up to the look-out is considered by many as one of the most difficult days on the Full Circuit, along with Paso John Garner, as you ascend some 800 metres. It takes roughly 4 hours to reach the Torres del Paine viewpoint from the start of Valle Ascencio, a pretty windy place to trek in Patagonian summer so make sure to bring a windproof jacket if you're there between October to March. It's also important to bear in mind that the last 45 minutes up to the look-out are a steep uphill climb over rocks and sandy terrain, and many hikers take trekking poles to help their knees on the way back down.
After trekking up to the look-out, hard-core climbers can continue up along Valle Silencio, past Campamento Japones and through dense rainforest for views of 'los Cuernos' mountains, Escudo (the Shield) and Fortaleza (the Fortress), as well as the back of the spectacular granite spires, Las Torres.
Photos of Torres del Paine look-out (via Valle Ascensio)
Map of Torres del Paine look-out (via Valle Ascensio)
Nearby landmarks
Trips that visit Torres del Paine look-out (via Valle Ascensio)
Looking for a more affordable way to experience the W Trek without going it alone? This tour is ideal to book with your hiking friends or family group. You'll get expert support, campsite stays, and seamless logistics without the premium…
- 5 Days
- $1,550
Tackle Patagonia's most iconic circuit trail, fully supported with porters and a local guide. Cross the John Gardner Pass, explore the park's remote northern sections, revel in the stunning French Valley and finish at the Towers viewpoint – this itinerary…
- 9 Days
- $3,791
Don't just trek the W-Trek, do it from comfort and in style. Stay at one of the best all-inclusive lodges in Patagonia, whilst each day completing a leg of the W Trek: Glacier Grey, the French Valley and the epic…
- 5 Days
- $4,826
Tailor each day of this trip to suit you by choosing from a selection of small group excursions to Torres del Paine's most famous sights and lesser-known gems. Enjoy some solid days of hiking, or more gentle walks, and return…
- 5 Days
- $6,000
You choose the activities and pace during this multi-day experience at an eco-friendly camp in the heart of Torres del Paine. Daily small group excursions for all abilities are offered, with expert guides to support you. From tough trekking to…
- 5 Days
- $1,671
Discover Torres del Paine's famous treks with expert guides, combining refugios with comfortable and unique accommodation. Trek to Los Cuernos, explore the French Valley and hike to the famous viewpoint at the base of the Towers, whilst also visiting the…
- 7 Days
- $3,378
Hike Torres del Paine's famous W Trek in a dynamic manner with expert guides, whilst basing yourself in unique accommodation in the heart of the park. Trek the stunning French Valley, to the base of the iconic Towers and visit…
- 5 Days
- $2,462
Experience the stunning beauty of winter in Torres del Paine National Park from an all-inclusive luxury lodge. This flexible trip, with a choice of daily excursions, offers relaxed to challenging trekking and horse-riding. At the end of each day you…
- 5 Days
- $2,850
Stay in the most exclusive lodge in Torres del Paine with outstanding cuisine, views of the Towers from your isolated villa and with the luxury of a private guide, vehicle and driver so you have complete freedom to explore at…
- 5 Days
- $6,580
Combine fantastic day hikes around the Fitz Roy massif in Argentina's Los Glaciares National Park with the famous W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park in Chile. All travel, border crossings and accommodation is included and arranged for you,…
- 11 Days
- $4,825
Discover Torres del Paine's extraordinary W Trek on a series of fantastic group day hikes with constant panoramic views. Enjoy a boat trip to the immense face of Glacier Grey and spend a day watching wildlife, hopefully spotting the elusive…
- 5 Days
- $3,200