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)
Hike the original W Trek and experience the highlights of this unique region. Trek to the best lookout points for stunning views of the Torres del Paine and explore the French Valley surrounded by hanging glaciers. Follow this with a…
- 5 Days
- $2,900
Stay in a secluded, all-inclusive luxury camp where you'll wake each morning in a forest overlooking Patagonia's stunning Toro Lake. Journey through breathtaking scenery to complete world-famous hikes and other activities in Torres del Paine while being looked after from…
- 6 Days
- $3,900
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
- $2,795
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
This trip fits Torres del Paine's highlights into a short timeframe. As part of a group you'll trek up close to the famous granite towers, the mesmerising French Valley and the shimmering blue ice of Glacier Grey. Expert guides, deluxe…
- 3 Days
- $2,000
This trip turns the famous W Trek into a series of shorter day hikes, with a perfectly located hotel in the heart of the national park as your base. It's one of the most comfortable ways to experience the wonderful…
- 5 Days
- $5,200
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
- $3,510
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
- $5,840
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
Hike the original W Trek independently and experience the highlights of this unique region at your own pace. Trek to the best lookout points for stunning views of the magnificent Torres del Paine National Park without the worry of having…
- 5 Days
- $1,900
Our expert guides make it possible to follow the majority of the W Trek and experience its highlights in the beautiful winter months of Patagonia, despite of chillier conditions and limited services. Based in Torres del Paine's famous refugios, you'll…
- 5 Days
- $2,500