My girlfriend and I were first time trekkers and were not sure how we would find the 5 day W-trek. We both agree that it is the most rewarding holiday we have had on any continent. The ultimate highlight is difficult to pick, as we were exceptionally lucky with weather during the week - the landscape of the park is breathtaking in a manner that no photo or video can adequately capture - the memories we have returned with are too vivid to forget. We remain in touch with the other members of our group, I didn't anticipate that the social aspect of the trip would be significant, but it definitely was!

Before the trip, I was concerned that the experience wouldn't justify travelling for 2 days from Europe; I was categorically wrong.

Yes

Swoop were patient and helpful as we planned our trek over a period of a couple of months, re-explaining things and taking care of the necessary logistics in a manner that meant we could immerse ourselves in the Torres Del Paine completely without stress. Our only obligation was to wake up each morning, which is hardly difficult!

Our guide (Mauricio) was brilliant and added to the experience - he gauged the pace of the group well, offered (as opposed to just agreeing) to take photos at every viewpoint (something which must bore, given his 11 years of leading treks). We had perfect weather, but had it been worse, his charismatic chirps of encouragement and knowledge of when it is and isn't appropriate to take the extended French Valley detour would have been invaluable.

Ideal for first time trekkers like us - however, it may be difficult to match the scenery when travelling in future! Worth the travel if coming from afar. Food and accommodation were both pleasant surprises - the name 'refugios' and the sheer volume of visitors conjured visions of scruffy, dilapidated hostels, which simply wasn't the case. The only improvement would be the cleanliness of some of the bathrooms. Having a guide like Mauricio, who had 11 years of experience of the park was great for first timers, it removed the stress at the start and end of long days and allowed us to focus on unwinding and immersing in the majestic National Park.

Weather is variable, duh! We didn't expect any warm weather and so came over dressed. We packed too much - travelling light makes the long days more enjoyable, and you really don't need pointless extra changes of clothes - everyone you meet is trekking! I eat like a horse and took extra food assuming it wouldn't be enough for me - I needn't have bothered, the packed lunches and evening meals were all generous.