This detailed guide will run through all the ins and outs of hiking the W Trek. It will cover the best time of year for hikers to visit this wild part of Chilean Patagonia, some challenges you can expect to encounter, top trip highlights, what gear you will need, how long you may spend in the wilderness, and much more. Happy exploring!

My experience hiking the W Trek

I’ve trekked extensively throughout the Andes, from the dizzying heights of Machu Picchu to the impressive glaciers of Argentine Patagonia, and have learned powerful life lessons from my adventures. However, I still remember the W Trek as one of the most amazing mountain adventures I have taken.

There’s a reason why it’s the most famous hiking trail in Patagonia. The scenery you’ll enjoy along the way is second to none – imagine jagged mountains that resemble massive shards of ice, milky mountain lakes, and the rolling Patagonian Steppe in the distance. 

A personal highlight of the W Trek was the approach to Grey Glacier, which feels like one of the most untouched parts of Torres del Paine. The path to Grey Glacier along Grey Lake is stunningly beautiful and poses a nice challenge as you trek amongst chiseled sculpturesque mountains.

Adding to the physical beauty of it all, the hiking route is fantastically well-organized with designated camp / hut sites that boast gorgeous views of the national park, the trekking season is long, and wonderful local guides are available. I highly recommend you experience hiking the W Trek for yourself.

What’s in this guide to the W Trek?

1. An introduction to Chilean Patagonia
2. Where is the W Trek?
3. The history of the W Trek and the Torres del Paine National Park
4. Highlights of the W Trek
5. How long is the W Trek? How many days are needed?
6. Elevation and terrain on the W Trek
7. Is the W Trek difficult?
8. Preparation for the W Trek
9. When is the best time of year to go?
10. What do I need to pack for the W Trek in Patagonia?
11. Accommodations: Where to stay on the W Trek
12. W Trek permits
13. Getting to the start of the W Trek
14. Sample W Trek itinerary
15. The 5-Day W Trek Circuit
16. W Trek Express
17. Alternative routes to the W Trek (O Circuit vs Q Circuit)
18. Where to go after the W Trek
19. Visas for Chile

1. An introduction to Chilean Patagonia

Chilean Patagonia is one side of the greater region of Patagonia. Altogether, it encompasses a whopping 400,000 square miles (that’s over a million square kilometers!) of land at the southern end of South America. It’s a diverse place, rolling from seemingly endless steppes inhabited by unusual Welsh-speaking farming communities to the jagged tops of mountains like the Fitz Roy and the Torres del Paine.

Ever since the first Spanish conquistadors started coming here in the 1500s, Patagonia has been seen as a land of myth and majesty. Open and vast like nowhere in Europe, it wowed explorers with calving glaciers and penguin-spotted islands, mirror-like alpine lakes, and whale-filled oceans. Today, the awe-inspiring nature of the region is still very much intact and trekking here is seen as a bit of a rite of passage a la the Himalaya.

Chilean Patagonia begins roughly 500 miles (805 kilometers) south of Santiago, the capital, and then arcs around the whole of the edge of the continent before finishing at the icy channels of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago. It’s all pretty wonderful, but most agree that the zenith is the Torres del Paine National Park, which is where you’ll be doing the W Trek.

2. Where is the W Trek?

The W Trek leads you to the most famous part of Chilean Patagonia: The Torres del Paine. They’re a trio of incredible granite tower peaks that look like daggers shooting straight out of the earth. At their closest point, the three towers are just 12 miles (19 kilometers) from the Argentina border. The nearest main town is Puerto Natales, Chile.

More generally speaking, the W Trek takes you down to the ice-capped, snow-dusted ends of the continent, less than 400 miles (645 kilometers) from Cape Horn. It’s truly a wild part of the planet you must see!

3. The history of the W Trek and the Torres del Paine National Park

Arguably the most famous corner of Chilean Patagonia, the serrated tops of the mighty Torres del Paine massif became the centrepiece of their own national park back in 1959. But you have to go back almost 80 years more to discover the moment when the region first entered the limelight.

Yep, Scottish travel-writing pioneer Lady Florence Dixie blazed a trail here during her South American travels in the late 1880s. Her prose recalls “three tall peaks of a reddish hue” stood before plains of ripe berry bushes and grazing guanacos.

Her descriptions piqued the interest of others. Finnish geologist Otto Nordenskjöld took a break from his polar explorations to visit the region in the 1900s. Then came the missionary-mountaineer Alberto María de Agostini en route to his epic crossing of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field.

It wasn’t until the end of the 1950s that the region was designated an official national park by the Chilean government. It was originally known as Grey Lake National Tourism Park but was subsequently given its modern name in the 1970s, the same decade it was dubbed a prestigious UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

It was also the 1970s that saw the formation of the famous trails. That was spearheaded by a team of local rangers in conjunction with British explorer John Garner (who now has a pass named after him in the range). They laid the foundations of the now-iconic circular route that encompasses the whole massif, including the W Trek section itself.

4. Highlights of the W Trek

If you’re looking to be wowed by the sheer majesty of hiking in Chilean Patagonia, then yes, the W Trek is most certainly worth it. This relatively low-altitude trek takes you through areas of the national park that are widely considered to be the most incredible places in Patagonia. In a region that’s beset by ice fields and soaring peaks, that’s really saying something! 

The W Trek requires a commitment of about 4-5 days of hiking, on average. What’s great is that there is something special to see on every single day of the journey. Views abound from start to finish and there’s always another W Trek highlight to look forward to. The most impressive parts of the trek are:

5. How long is the W Trek? How many days are needed?

The distance of the W Trek is approximately 55 miles (88.5 kilometers) long. One of the great things about this hiking route is just how versatile it can be. It’s easy to chop, change, and add to the W Trek itinerary so you’ll find everything from 4-day treks to 7-day ultimate treks on the menu.

There are many different distances reported by various sources for the W Trek. The below is what I have personally tracked via GPS while hiking the East to West route for 5 days.

Day 1 – Central Sector to Central Sector (Base Torres Hike)

• 13.5 miles / 22 kilometers

Day 2 – Central Sector to Francés Sector

• 11.5 miles / 18.5 kilometers

Day 3 – Francés Sector to Paine Grande (including Mirador Britannica Lookout)

• 15 miles / 24 kilometers

Day 4 – Paine Grande to Grey Mountain Refuge

• 7.5 miles / 12 kilometers

Day 5 – Grey Mountain Refuge to Paine Grande / Lake Pehoé

• 7.5 miles / 12 kilometers

If you plan to do the W Trek in 4 days then your Day 4 (Paine Grande to Grey to Paine Grande) will be 15 miles (24 kilometers) in length.

W Trek Map
Need help visualizing the trail? Check out the W Trek map below. This detailed Torres del Paine W Trek map breaks the 4-day route into color-coded days, showing key landmarks like Grey Glacier, Frances Valley, and Base of the Towers.

You can do the trail in different directions. There are ways to skip one leg of the journey and add on extra excursions. So long as you follow the basic idea of a W-shaped route through the Torres del Paine park and include a trek into the stunning French Valley along the way, you can rest assured that you’ll see the Patagonian national park’s highlight attractions.

6. Elevation and terrain on the W Trek

The pinnacle of the W Trek reaches 2,788 feet (850 meters) above sea level. Now, that might sound positively low for veterans of Everest Base Camp, Mount Kilimanjaro, or the Inca Trail – and it is.

However, where this trek gets tricky is in elevation gain and loss and the daily distances. Some sections of the W Trek see hikers clock up altitudes of over 2,000 feet (610 meters) in just a few hours, only to lose it all again that afternoon as they head to the rest site for the night. You’re likely to notice this most after the hike to the base of Las Torres, which is followed a few days later by the ascent into the French Valley.

The good news is that there’s zero technical climbing on the W Trek. The trek is on a mix of well-maintained paths, packed mud, loose gravel, and stones. There are some parts where you may need to navigate wet rocks, low streams, and cable bridges, but there’s nothing overly challenging on the route itself in terms of terrain.

7. Is the W Trek difficult?

The W Trek multi-day hike isn’t a cinch, but it’s also not on the same level of difficulty as other world-famous hikes such as Mount Kilimanjaro or Everest Base Camp. So how hard is the W Trek in Patagonia’s Torres del Paine? Well, there’s no technical expertise needed and you don’t have to acclimatize. The trail is well-marked and maintained for a majority of the route.

I’d say one of the the biggest challenges is the unpredictable weather, which can change from snow to heavy rain to blazing sun in just a matter of hours. In addition, Torres del Paine is known for its extreme winds which can reach speeds of up to 100 mph (161 kph). 

The W Trek also packs a lot of walking into single days. For comparison, you are asked to hike between 6-8 miles (9.7-12.9 kilometers) per day on average on an Inca Trail tour.

However, on the W Trek, you can expect to hike between 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) and 15 miles (24 kilometers) per day depending on how your adventure is structured. I highly recommend a training plan that builds in long distances (over 10 miles / 16 kilometers per day) and consecutive day hikes.

8. Preparation for the W Trek

We’ve already mentioned how the W Trek isn’t up there with Kilimanjaro and other high-altitude expeditions. Most trekkers of decent fitness level should be able to complete it with a solid training schedule beforehand. That said, the days are long on this one – some pack in up to 10 hours of hiking across tough terrain that can get tougher when the weather changes.

For that reason, we’d say a good program of regular exercise starting around 12 weeks prior to the start of your hike is always a good idea. Begin with local walks of 2-3 hours and short runs of just a few miles each. By six weeks out, you should be able to up your runs to three miles and complete a hike of 7-9 continuous hours. With three weeks to go, try to double your number of runs and do weekly hikes of at least 7-9 hours each.

I also recommend that you begin doing consecutive day hikes at this time and ensure you are wearing a pack with the same weight you will bring with you on the trek. Resistance training can also work wonders for muscle fatigue and recovery, something that’s often an issue with such long days on the W Trek.

Don’t overlook the importance of training in variable conditions. Patagonia’s weather is unpredictable, with sudden rain, strong winds, and even snow possible in any season. If possible, train in different environments—hike on windy days, tackle wet trails, and wear your full gear, including rain layers and a loaded pack. This will help you build endurance and ensure you’re comfortable managing gear adjustments on the go.

9. When is the best time of year to do the W Trek?

The seasons can be very unpredictable this far south in Patagonia. As a general rule, summer (November to March) is better for trekking, making it the peak season for hiking the W Trek in Torres del Paine. That’s because it’s warmer, with midsummer temperatures typically between 43-63°F (6-17°C), and there’s less rain (average of just 4 millimeters each month).

However, it’s not totally clear cut that the summer season is the best time to hike the W Trek. It all depends on your preference and the type of experience you’re looking for. There are way more people hiking the trail so the W Trek lookout points are busier and the mountain huts more expensive. Additionally, high summer winds can spoil a hike in Patagonia so you’ll have to be ready to change plans if the gusts get up to over 80 mph (130 kph) or so.

Autumn (April is a good alternative to the main summer trekking season. The upsides include fewer hikers and beautiful colors on the Patagonian Steppe – think pale yellows, deep oranges, and muted browns rolling out from the base of the mountains. However, there is usually more rainfall and the temperatures at night get low. Keep in mind that the main W Trek route closes on April 30th each year. 

Spring (September to November) is another popular time to hike the W Trek but this season can bring the risk of snowfall. This means you’ll need to pack extra thermals. The W Trek route typically opens in mid-September each year. However, a few of the huts are closed until October 1. So, if you want to do the Trek in September you will need to do an amended version. 

Winter (May to August) a majority of the huts and campsites along the standard W Trek route are mainly closed due weather conditions and snowfall. However, it is possible to do three of the four segments of the W Trek as out and back hikes by staying in two of the refugios that are open during the Winter months.

Also, please note that there are fixed group dates for these excursions and the treks are guided by a professional mountain guide which is required by the National Park for safety reasons.

We offer trips all year long on the W Trek. Click HERE to learn more.

10. What do I need to pack for the W Trek in Patagonia?

Your W Trek packing list will depend on when you decide to visit Torres del Paine to hike the trail, but try packing as light as possible. Travelers in the high season (summer and autumn) won’t need as much thermal gear as those visiting in the low season (spring and winter), when there’s a bigger risk of snow and sub-zero temperatures.

That said, every hiker’s W Trek packing list should have a good thermal under-layer, a fleece, and waterproof outer layers for the upper and lower parts of your body. The weather can be pretty wild and unpredictable, even in the height of summer, so it’s a good idea to bring multiple layers to wear.

When it comes to trekking equipment, there are some must-haves: sturdy walking boots, a good set of trekking poles, a high-volume and lightweight water bottle and/or reservoir, sunscreen, and a reliable waterproof trekking backpack. Depending on how you choose to do the trek, you may also need camping equipment and a sleeping bag.

Note: when booking with us, sleeping bags will be ready for you in both the mountain hut and/or tent at each sector, and you are also provided a ‘welcome kit’ that includes a sleeping bag liner, water bottle, map, and personal towel at your Pre-Trek Briefing in Puerto Natales.

Also, drinking water is not treated at huts/campsites along the trail. Many hikers feel comfortable drinking the water along the route (including from rivers or streams). But, if you prefer additional protection and peace of mind, you can certainly bring your own portable water filter (e.g. Katadyn BeFree, LifeStraw, Grayl, Sawyer Squeeze, etc.). Some of these systems only weigh a few ounces!

Some hikers will go for a porter service on their W Trek trip to help carry baggage and equipment. That’s an optional extra with most providers. A porter on the W Trek will typically carry 33 pounds (15 kilograms) of your clothing and gear. Keep in mind that if you do decide to get a porter, you won’t need one on the Base Towers hike as this day is an out and back trek.

In addition, if you are doing the 4-day trek from East to West you also won’t need a porter for the last day as you can pay a small fee to leave your baggage at Paine Grande while you trek to Grey.

My team at The Explorer’s Passage makes it easy for trekkers who plan their travels with us. Because the requirements for the W Trek change with the seasons and the sort of trek you go for, we can provide our guests with a full packing list so they’re fully prepared – just ask us!

11. Accommodations: where to stay on the W Trek

There are a number of options when it comes to accommodations on the W Trek. Depending on the sector you are staying in, the options include standard camping, premium camping, cabanas, refugios / mountain huts, and hotels. I’m going to describe each of these options in greater detail below:

Standard Campsites
For the most part, the campsites on the W Trek are of very high quality, at least for true backcountry camps. They’re well equipped with all the things that trekkers might need, and even have extras that you could only dream of in the far-flung basecamps of other major trails.

Take the site at Paine Grande, for instance: it has hot showers during designated times each day, bathrooms, access to the restaurant and bar at Refugio Paine Grande, and even pay-as-you-go Wi-Fi. At the various campsites, some of the tents are set up on the ground and others are set up on wooden platforms.

Premium Camping
A few of the campsites on the W Trek circuit have a newer concept known as premium camping, which consists of a raised tent approximately 6 feet (1.8 meters) off the ground and has a ladder for access. The tents in premium camping are larger and sturdier than in standard camping, and there is no need for mattress pads as the entire base floor of the tent consists of a ~3-inch (7.6-millimeter) comfortable pad.

Currently, premium camping is currently available at Chileno and Francés Sectors but there are plans to bring this concept to more sectors (such as Central Sector) on the W Trek in the coming years.

Cabanas (cabins)
At Cuernos Sector there is a wonderful accommodation option known as cabanas (cabins). They are mini villas that dot the landscape around the main refugio building and are private accommodations that can fit 1-3 people. There are bathrooms and showers that are shared by all guests who are staying in the cabanas.

Most of our guests doing the East to West W Trek hike directly from Central Sector to Francés Sector on Day 2 of their hike, which is ~11.5 miles (18.5 kilometers). Chileno is located ~9.5 miles (15.3 kilometers) from Central Sector and is 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) short of Francés Sector.

So, if you would like private indoor accommodations, then you can sleep in a cabana (cabin) at Cuernos for the evening. Just note that if you do choose to sleep at Cuernos on Day 2 of your trek then it will tack on ~2 miles (3.2 kilometers) to your trip on Day 3 of your hike.

Refugios / Mountain Huts
Refugio is the local name for a refuge or shelter that’s essentially a mountain hut or lodge that offers dorm-style (bunk beds) accommodations along the W Trek. Refugios are rustic but comfy, and typically have warm communal areas with dining halls where you can meet and mingle with other trekkers. The bathrooms and showers at the refugios are communal.

Some of the refugios have bar areas, like Central and Paine Grande sectors. Many of the refugios have small shops where you can purchase an assortment of goods such as water, soda, energy bars, eggs, noodles, toothpaste, toothbrush, and clothing.

All of the main refugios on the W Circuit have Wi-Fi for an additional fee as well. Depending on which sector you are in, the number of people per room will differ. The room size on the W Circuit ranges from 2-8 people.

Hotels
On the standard W Trek route there is only one hotel option, Hotel Las Torres, which is located in the Central Sector. Hotel Las Torres is a very nice 4-star hotel located approximately 100 yards (nearly a meter) from the refugio and camping area at Central sector.

If you are doing the East to West Route, then you will most likely be spending two nights in the Central Sector as your first day of hiking is an out and back trek. We have many guests who stay at Hotel Las Torres for the first two nights of their journey, then do either camping or huts for the remainder of the trip.

Please note that EcoCamp is located in the Central Sector. While not a traditional hotel, EcoCamp consists of luxury domes of different sizes and amenities. We have many guests that stay in EcoCamp for a few nights as part of their W Trek journey. 

If you would prefer to stay in a hotel every night while in Torres del Paine, there are six wonderful hotels that offer all-inclusive programs for their guests. Please note: If you stay in one of these hotels you won’t be able to do the full W Trek. However, you will be able to do some of the W Trek segment hikes as guided day trips with vehicle / boat support to the trail heads.

At the all-inclusive hotels in Torres del Paine, you get to choose between a range of guided hikes and adventure activities, many of which are included as part of your package. 

Below is a list of the main all-inclusive hotel properties in Torres del Paine:

Hotel Las Torres
4-Star Hotel
Located in the Central Sector, 100 yards (~1 meter) from the Central refugio and camping 

Hotel Lago Grey
4-Star Hotel
Located in between the south shore of Grey Lake and Lake Pehoé

Explora Lodge
5-Star Hotel
Located near the southern shores of Lake Pehoé

EcoCamp Patagonia 
5-Star Domes
Located on a hilltop overlooking the Central Sector

Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa 
5-Star Hotel
Located in on the Eastern shore of Lake Sarmiento de Gamboa

Awasi Patagonia 
5+ Star Hotel with 14 private villas
Located East of the Central Sector in a private reserve

Sectors

The W Trek is punctuated with a host of rest areas and the conventional plan of the hike makes use of seven of these Sectors along the way. Let’s take a closer look at each rest site:

One important item to note is that if your group size is below the minimum room size in the refugios, then other travelers will fill the empty spots on the rooms. Guests are not permitted to purchase the extra room spaces to create a private room. 

Since the sectors are run by three different companies and itineraries often require a separate reservation, booking accommodations for the W Trek can be a chore. It doesn’t have to be, though! The Explorer’s Passage makes visiting Torres del Paine easy. Book your trip to Patagonia with us and let us take the stress out of planning so you can focus on hiking the W Trek. Also, with us, all meals are included from the start of the hike to the finish.

12. W Trek permits

In planning this journey, you may ask yourself “Do I need a permit for the W Trek?” Although you’ll need an entrance ticket to enter Torres del Paine National Park, there’s no official permit system for the W Trek as there is for the classic Inca Trail route to Machu Picchu.

There are, however, capacity limitations on the number of trekkers that are permitted to stay in the park’s campsites, huts, cabanas (cabins), and hotels. That acts as a sort of de facto limit on the number of people who can do the trek, governed mainly by who was quick enough to book their accommodations. 

My advice? Start planning early to avoid disappointment. The huts, campsites, and cabanas (cabins) go on sale in May and June each year for the upcoming trekking season which typically goes from September 8 to April 30. Spaces in Central, Chileno, Cuernos, and Francés Sectors are typically released in early to mid May.

Spaces for Paine Grande and Grey sectors are typically released in early to mid June. I typically recommend that our guests try to get their bookings in before the first release dates to ensure they get their desired spots.

If you would like help with this process, you can plan to travel with us and our experienced team will take care of all the important details for you, including campsite, hut, cabana (cabin), and hotel bookings, meals, National Park permits, transfers, gear rentals, and much more.

13. Getting to the start of the W Trek

Most people start the W Trek hike with an organized bus transfer from the city of Puerto Natales to Torres del Paine National Park.

Your journey to the trailhead of the W Trek will depend on which direction you will be hiking it: either from East-to-West, or vice versa. At The Explorer’s Passage, we recommend East-to-West, primarily because you get the hardest day of hiking (to and from Las Torres Lookout Point) out of the way on the first full day, when your legs are still fresh.

However, some prefer to save the view of these granite towers as a reward for the final day, so they start the journey in the West and head East. As with all adventures, there are pros and cons to each option!

All of the above trips can be done from Punta Arenas, but expect transfer times to the trailhead to be in the region of five to six hours, instead of a 2-3 hour bus ride from Puerto Natales.

14. Sample W Trek 4-Day Hike itinerary

As noted in the prior section, at The Explorer’s Passage we recommend hiking the W Trek from east to west. Below you will find a sample itinerary for this option (visit our W Trek trip page to download a full detailed itinerary):

If you prefer to hike the W Trek from west to east, culminating with an up-close encounter with the iconic towers themselves, here is a sample itinerary:

These sample itineraries are just a start and the opportunities are endless. Regardless of whether you’re traveling solo or in a group of any size, our expert Adventure Consultants will craft extraordinary itineraries for your private travel needs. See how to get the ball rolling on your private travel dreams here.

15. The 5-Day W Trek Circuit

The W Trek circuit is often completed in four full days of trekking. However, approximately 30% of our travelers elect to do it in five days and spend a night at the Grey Mountain Refuge by Grey Glacier, either camping or in huts.

With this 5-day hike option, the typical fourth day of the standard 4-Day route’s 15-mile (24-kilometer) hike is essentially split in half and shared between Days 4 and 5: from Paine Grande Sector to Grey Sector on the fourth day and then back to Paine Grande Sector the next day to catch the catamaran across Lake Pehoé.

Trekkers who select the 5-day option and spend a night in Grey Sector also have the opportunity to take an ice trekking excursion on Grey Glacier (with crampons and ice axes) or go kayaking in Grey Lake, with amazing views of the massive glacier. Both of these adventure activities are offered multiple times per day, and are a great way to complement a trek in Torres del Paine.

In addition, the first of the famous ‘Three Bridges’ which are part of the O Circuit can be reached from Grey Sector. This bridge spans a narrow section of Grey Lake, which is fed by nearby Grey Glacier. It’s located roughly 1-2 hours from Grey Sector and serves as a key crossing point for hikers whom are completing the O Circuit.

As you approach the bridge, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of both Grey Lake and Grey Glacier, with its vibrant blue waters flowing from the glacier’s melt, and the jagged icebergs that drift in the river. This area is often quieter, as many trekkers continue on to the next bridge or viewpoint, but it offers a serene spot to enjoy the untouched beauty of Patagonia’s wilderness.

16. W Trek Express

Most experts agree that this is the single most incredible trek in the whole of Patagonia, both on the Argentinian and Chilean sides of the border. However, not all travelers have the time to complete the entire adventure, which is why a more condensed version of the W Trek is now on the menu…

Cue the W Trek Express route. This cuts down your travel time by one day but still ensures you get to see all the legendary parts. Your travel from Puerto Natales to Torres del Paine will take place on the same day that you begin trekking. It runs east to west, starting with the dramatic outlook over the Torres del Paine on an up-and-back route.

Day two skirts the top end of Nordenskjöld Lake beneath the amazing Los Cuernos peaks. Day three is another there-and-back hike into the heart of the French Valley before a final day that whisks you across Lake Pehoé to be collected.

The whole Express W Trek can be self-guided or guided and done with hut accommodation or camping. One other important piece of information to note, since the Paine Grande hut does not typically open until October 1 each year, then your only option to do the W Trek trail in September is via the Express route.

17. Alternative routes to the W Trek (O Circuit and Q Circuit)

The W Trek may be the most popular trail in Torres del Paine but it certainly isn’t the only walking route that will let you experience this awesome corner of Chilean Patagonia. Usually open from November to April, there are also two route extensions that take you counterclockwise on the trail but promise to whisk you even higher into the clouds as you explore the mountains and glaciers. They are:

If you have more time to spare and are up for an extended trek, definitely try out one of the treks above.

18. Where to go after the W Trek

You’ve got a few options for onward travel once you’ve finished the W Trek. The most obvious and popular place that hikers return to is Puerto Natales. Many trek packages even include a drop-off back in that town, which has become a bit of a buzzy outdoors hub in recent years, touting craft beer emporiums and wine tasting establishments.

Puerto Natales also happens to be the best base for launching boat trips through the stunning fjords of Chilean Patagonia, including to the far-flung Tierra del Fuego for penguin watching and the Serrano Glacier a little closer by.

You might also want to use this opportunity to cross over into Argentinian Patagonia. The W Trek takes you very close to the border and there are regular buses that make the trip up to towns like El Calafate (5 hours) and El Chaltén (nine hours) from Puerto Natales.

It’s a top option for continuing your adventures through the Andes, opening up hikes under the Fitz Roy (arguably the most famous mountain in Argentina) and visits to the Perito Moreno Glacier (a UNESCO site that showcases huge chunks of ice peeling off a glacier tongue).

19. Visas for Chile

There’s a long list of 90 countries that get visa-free access to Chile, including virtually all of the European Union, the United Kingdom, and the United States. That means administrative work at the border or prior to departure shouldn’t be too much of an issue if you’ve got your heart set on the W Trek.

Notable exceptions include Australian citizens, who are no longer charged a hefty reciprocity fee when they enter but do need to go through the process of pre-applying for a single- or multiple-entry visa. All travelers should have at least six months’ validity left on their passport before traveling.

So there you have it, a comprehensive guide to 19 things you should know before hiking the W Trek in Chilean Patagonia! I hope this post has provided you with the necessary information to help you begin planning a truly memorable adventure tour to Chile. If you feel inspired, here are the other best places to visit in Chile.

This guide has covered a lot, but you may have more questions on hiking the W Trek in Torres del Paine. If so, my experienced team here at The Explorer’s Passage would love to hear from you so please contact us and let’s chat.

We have been running trips and treks to Chile for 10 years. We pride ourselves on delivering extraordinary tours based on travelers’ needs and are humbled by our guests’ testimonials. In fact, our dedication has earned us a 5-star rating on Tripadvisor, and awards by Travel+Leisure Magazine and Newsweek. Check us out and discover why so many travelers worldwide choose us. My team and I would love for you to join us on the W Trek or any of our other adventures!

I hope to go exploring with you soon! 

Cheers,
Jeff

Jeff Bonaldi
Founder & CEO
The Explorer’s Passage

About Jeff Bonaldi
Jeff Bonaldi is the Founder and CEO of The Explorer’s Passage, a premier adventure travel company. His mission is to provide travelers with the opportunity to transform their lives and the planet through the power of adventure.

Learn more about Jeff’s story and his company HERE.

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In the summer of 1896, gold was found 300 miles (483 kilometers) south of the Arctic Circle near Dawson City in the Yukon Territory of Canada. Word on the dusty streets of this remote town is that even today you can pick up a pan, head to the creeks, and rustle up a few pieces for your own pocket.

And so I headed north like the stalwart Klondikers of the Gold Rush. The July journey wasn’t as arduous as the winter trek along the Chilkoot Trail pursued in 1897 by 30,000 miners, prospectors, businessmen, and conmen. I also wasn’t pulling a pack mule and a years’ worth of supplies through cold, snow-throttled mountain passes only to arrive at Bennett Lake and realize I needed to build a boat to run 500-miles (805 kilometers) of the challenging Yukon River.

Instead, I flew in from Whitehorse to the sound of twin turboprops on a 30-seat plane. I pulled my rollaway suitcase from the overhead bin and stepped onto the tarmac into a warm afternoon sun and the thrilling landscape of Dawson City.

It was hard to imagine that in 1898 Dawson was the largest city north of San Francisco. Now this riverbank town is home to a year-round population of about 1,300 people who have turned this former tent dwelling into a bona-fide historical landmark.

During the height of the Gold Rush, Dawson City’s population swelled to an estimated 30,000 to 40,000 people — nearly 30 times what it is today — making it one of the largest and busiest frontier towns in North America.

The frontier façades of each shop, hotel, restaurant, and bar lining the grid of downtown held stories and characters I couldn’t wait to discover. It was like I’d stepped into one of Jack London’s books or Robert Service’s poems, two legendary writers who took up residence here over a hundred years ago. I found myself wishing I had a dog (named Buck, of course) trailing along with me.

I walked by the supposedly haunted Palace Grand Theatre, which was built in 1899 by longhaired, mustachioed Arizona Charlie Meadows, a showman and cowboy. I didn’t see his ghost so moseyed on in search of food.

Starvation and malnutrition were serious problems along the trail for the Klondikers, so I made sure I didn’t fall into the same fate. I ducked into Klondike Kate’s, one of the best eateries in Dawson. The enterprise is named after Kate Rockwell, a flirtatious dancer, vaudeville star, and rebellious woman of the Gold Rush. My mouth was watering as I read over the menu of scintillating locally inspired dishes like alder-smoked elk and pecan crusted char.

I sat next to two older gentlemen who had just driven their truck up from Whitehorse. They were flying back the next morning to meet up with their wives and canoes for a rendering of the miners’ voyage up the Yukon River. We toasted Yukon brewed beers to our respective adventures before I headed on to Diamond Tooth Gerties for the evening show.

On my way, I stopped in at the Downtown Hotel for the infamous Sourtoe Cocktail. After sharing the tale of Dawson’s most illustrious beverage, the bartender recommended I take a stroll up to the Midnight Dome, the hill that overlooks downtown and the river. I thanked him for the advice, grabbed my Sourtoe certificate, and decided I’d save the hike for another day.

Upon entering the elegant walls of Diamond Tooth Gerties, the sounds of a honky-tonk piano met my ears. Canada’s oldest gambling hall featured a lively show that captured well the heady days of the Gold Rush, replete with cancan dancers and a colorful master of ceremonies, ole Gertie Lovejoy herself, who flaunted a sparkling diamond wedged between her two front teeth.

As I stepped out of the noise of Gerties and onto the quiet street, I was startled to see the mountains clear as day against a pale blue sky. I glanced at my watch: it was almost midnight.  Remembering that Dawson gets nearly 20-hours of sunlight in late summer, I contemplated taking the hike up Midnight Dome again.

Instead, I yawned and walked back to the hotel. Though I was happily exhausted from my exploration of this strange, wonderful town, I could barely sleep a wink, for the next day I was embarking on a trip to Discovery Claim – the site where gold was first exposed in 1896. I couldn’t wait to try my hand at prospecting and unearth more secrets of the Wild West of Canada’s true north.

Till the next…
Jeff 

Jeff Bonaldi
Founder & CEO
The Explorer’s Passage

About Jeff Bonaldi
Jeff Bonaldi is the Founder and CEO of The Explorer’s Passage, a premier adventure travel company. His mission is to provide travelers with the opportunity to transform their lives and the planet through the power of adventure.

Learn more about Jeff’s story and his company HERE.

Share this amazing location!

The post The Klondike Gold Rush: Tales from Dawson City, Yukon appeared first on The Explorer's Passage.

Rocked by the pockmarked roads of Nepal’s capital city, I secured my backpack and tightened my grip on the backseat of the motorcycle. The bike jerked and rumbled past women stirring steaming pots, men drinking tea, and kids flying kites between towering apartments under construction. Other bikers dressed in Western clothing zipped past us, skillfully navigating the maze of slower moving cars, skinny dogs and cows, and trucks tottering with stacked boxes, baskets, and barrels of who knows what going who knows where.

Over the shoulder of Dinesh, the driver of this rocket, I took in Kathmandu, a developed, thriving municipality of a million people. Another 1.5 million residents of this sprawling urban agglomerate live in the surrounding mountains, tending the rice terraces stacked on the hillsides above the city. Beyond this fertile valley lie the highest places on earth. To the north is Tibet, a wilderness restricted to travelers, and India spreads to the south; the collision of these colorful cultures, religions, politics, food, and languages keeps Nepal, which is roughly the size of Arkansas, one of the most fascinating pockets on the planet.

As we sped through the crowded streets, images of Dinesh’s photographs I’d been poring over all morning came to life. I was anxious to start my adventure and experience the tangible panoramas he’d captured of mystical Mustang, a rugged region northwest of the metropolis we were racing through now and the ultimate destination of my trip.

Mustang, once known as the Kingdom of Lo, was a separate and largely isolated kingdom until the 1990s. Its remote location high in the Himalayas kept its ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture largely untouched by the outside world — a hidden kingdom preserved in time, waiting for travelers like me to discover its secrets.

Dinesh dropped me off at my hotel in the Thamel district late that afternoon. I ventured past the Western menus of this touristy neighborhood to a Nepalese restaurant and ordered a local classic: buffalo momo and an Everest beer. I savored the dumplings and refreshing brew and then pulled my notebook from my backpack and the novel that had inspired this trek halfway around the world. Over a cup of chiya, Nepal’s version of an Indian chai, I smiled at the contrast of this scene to the one that sparked this journey about a year ago.

It was then that, on the patio of my favorite café in Princeton, New Jersey, I enjoyed a coffee while perusing the New York Times. My eyes fell on a story featuring a great battle between demons intent on preventing the spread of Buddhism and a heroic sage named Guru Rinpoche, also known as Padmasambhava, also known as the Second Buddha.

As the story goes, in 760, King Trisong Detsen, the first emperor of Tibet, was attempting to build Samye, the first Buddhist monastery on Tibetan ground. Yet each time it reached a certain height, it would collapse. Convinced the demons were hindering his progress, he requested Guru Rinpoche travel from his home in India to subdue the demons and allow Buddhism to flourish. The emperor waited impatiently for him to arrive.

On his journey to Samye, Guru Rinpoche read the teachings of the Buddha, and the demons caught wind that a powerful mystic had not only discovered a great truth, but he was bringing this Dharma to Tibet. Guru Rinpoche knew of these angry demons and pursued them deep in the snowy peaks and desert canyons of Mustang.  He destroyed the demons, painting the towering cliffs red with their blood and scattering their remains to the grasslands below.

After wiping out the demons, Guru Rinpoche continued on his quest and arrived in Samye to complete his task.  Centuries of civil wars, earthquakes, and fires have changed this holy site, but it still stands today as a sacred pilgrimage destination and symbol of religious perseverance in Tibet.

The article triggered the memory of some exotic place I’d learned of in one of my all-time favorite adventure novels. That tale revolved around two treasure hunters seeking a one-footed creature in the kingdom of Mustang. It was clear that lore and legend engulfed this foreign nook, and I needed to know more.

Fast forward… The next morning, my trekking guide, Nima, picked me up early for a ride under clear skies. We headed south to Pharping and the Asura Cave, where I took another of what was turning into thousands of steps on this journey to discover more about Guru Rinpoche, and the Dharma he taught.

Prayer flags whipped in the wind overhead as I ascended past monks dressed in red robes. I arrived at the mouth of the cave, and Nima pointed out a well-defined hand imprint on the outside wall. Other carvings and impressions belonging to Guru Rinpoche stood out unnaturally as smooth, shiny rock rubbed by thousands of palms belonging to pilgrims believing this to be the very spot their great teacher had spent 12-years in meditation.

Ducking into the darkness, the light mellowed with hundreds of butter candles surrounding the spot where Guru Rinpoche prayed all those years. I lit a flame for good luck and stepped back into the sunlight. The sounds of monks chanting echoed in the background, and I closed my eyes for a moment relishing the present truth: my journey to Mustang had officially begun.

If you would like to learn more about this epic adventure click HERE or shoot us an email at info@explorerspassage.com.

I look forward to seeing you on the trail!

Cheers,
Jeff

Jeff Bonaldi
Founder & CEO
The Explorer’s Passage

About Jeff Bonaldi
Jeff Bonaldi is the Founder and CEO of The Explorer’s Passage, a premier adventure travel company. His mission is to provide travelers with the opportunity to transform their lives and the planet through the power of adventure.

Learn more about Jeff’s story and his company HERE.

Share this amazing location!

The post Mustang Nepal: In Search for Guru Rinpoche appeared first on The Explorer's Passage.

While man was testing the limits of the atmosphere with balloons, discovering how to keep time with self-winding clocks, and acknowledging the independence of the United States of America, a young Argentine boy was setting sail with his family across the Pacific for Spain. And as George Washington was inaugurated as the first president of the US, this 11-year-old son of a professional soldier was about to begin his military career as a cadet in the Spanish forces, an ironic start for José de San Martin, a man who would eventually become a critical leader in the liberation of South America from Spanish domination.

Exactly 230-years later, I was testing the limits of my waterproof gear on the streets of Lima, Peru, discovering the delicious taste of leche de tigre (tiger’s milk), and acknowledging that rain does make for a good excuse to explore the insides of cities I might otherwise forego for the famed beaches in the area should the sun be shining.

Lima was designed in the same Arabic-Moorish architectural fashion of Seville, Spain. I walked block after block past charming Colonial-style structures, a sharp contrast to the sprawl of dilapidated apartments and shanties coloring the surrounding hillsides. Relaxing into the role of stranger in a foreign country, I wandered on, enjoying the occasional universal moment of kids playing soccer or old men kicking back in their chairs, staring at me.

Later that afternoon, I found myself in an impressive square gazing up at an even more impressive statue of a man on horseback. I snapped a photo but didn’t bother to read the inscription, distracted by the smells coming from a nearby food cart. I followed the wafts of roasting choclo, or corn with whitish kernels the size of pennies, and savored every last morsel before hailing a cab back to my hotel.

Three days and a few more samples of Peruvian-delicacies later, I boarded my scheduled flight for Santiago, Chile, a place that was to become one of my favorite cities in the world. With the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Andes looming behind the reflecting glass of commercial skyscrapers and glistening towers, the metropolis boasts a number of palaces, museums, cathedrals, and stunning public parks, not to mention savory gastronomic delights and a fascinating collision of cultures.

I hired a car and a guide named Gustavo from the hotel who could easily navigate the narrow streets so I could maximize my time investigating the diverse neighborhoods of this cosmopolitan mecca. From the stately buildings surrounding the picturesque Plaza de Armas to the eclectic cafes of the bohemian centre of Bellavista, Santiago presents a feast for the senses around every corner. I even had a chance to hike up to the top of Santa San Cristobal and, as I caught my breath, relished the iconic scene before me of a booming city dwarfed by some of the world’s greatest mountains.

On our way back to the hotel, we passed La Moneda Palace. Gustavo pointed out that this neoclassical building was the home of Chilean presidents until 1958 and is today the seat of the Chilean government. Sensing my interest in Chile’s history, he explained Chile did not gain independence from Spain until 1818 after the combined efforts of Argentine and Chilean divisions led a daring assault over the Andes. Two successful battles ensued, securing Chilean freedom and opening the door to the emancipation of Peru, what some leaders saw as the key to ultimate hemispheric victory over Spain.

I said adios to Gustavo and headed into the hotel lounge for a Pisco Sour, a drink consisting of a South American-liquor called pisco and a twist of Pica lime, the Chilean specialty. Turns out both Peru and Chile claim this cocktail as their national drink (though English and American bartenders introduced distinctive variations of the beverage to each country in the first place). I sipped and listened to the waitress as she laughed about the trivialities of this small source of national pride.

As she talked, I noticed an impressive painting hanging behind her on the wall above the bar. The dated oils captured well the impressive air of a military man on horseback. The painting reminded me of another work of art I’d seen recently. I pointed it out to her and inquired of the story.

She turned and looked up. A sense of honor came over her face as she enlightened me on the man who is considered one of the George Washington’s of South America: General José de San Martin. Not only the founder of Argentine independence, this war hero also led the liberating Army of the Andes over Paso de Los Patos in his quest for freedom for South America. His name represents the American ideal of democracy, justice, and liberty, and is on many a local street, building, or statue.

I showed her the photograph I’d taken in Lima of the statue in, what I now realized, was Plaza San Martin. She told me in more detail the tale that Gustavo had touched upon: how, in 1817, San Martin and fellow Chilean and Argentine principals led an army of 5,000 men across the Andes from Mendoza to Santiago and fought a great battle at Chacabuco, securing Chilean freedom and paving the way for the army to attack the Spanish stronghold of Lima, Peru.

And so it was in 1821, after running the Spanish out of Peru without firing a bullet, that San Martin was appointed Protector of Peru, where he served as president for a year before officially tiring of politics. After a life of service, he and his daughter moved to France, where he died in 1850, the same year California was admitted as the 31st state, Harvard Observatory photographed a star, and gold was discovered in Oregon.

The crossing of the Andes intrigued me. I imagined myself in San Martin’s army following the steep slope of scree and crumbling slides with the towering Aconcagua in the background. I needed to experience this for myself.

The crossing of the Andes is intriguing. Imagining San Martin’s army following the steep slope of scree and crumbling slides with the towering Aconcagua in the background. What made this feat even more astonishing was that it took place during the harsh Southern Hemisphere winter, with freezing temperatures, snow, and ice adding to the challenge of navigating such unforgiving terrain.

She wrote down the name of a guide in the small town of Los Patos who knew of the path that San Martin had led his army over that summer so long ago. After thanking her, paying my tab, and packing my bag, I hailed a cab and headed toward Los Patos. I couldn’t believe the story I’d stumbled upon and could not wait to see up close what mountains this admirable man overcame in the name of freedom for his land.

Chao, amigos!
Jeff

Jeff Bonaldi
Founder & CEO
The Explorer’s Passage

About Jeff Bonaldi
Jeff Bonaldi is the Founder and CEO of The Explorer’s Passage, a premier adventure travel company. His mission is to provide travelers with the opportunity to transform their lives and the planet through the power of adventure.

Learn more about Jeff’s story and his company HERE.

Share this post!

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The only thing that comes close to going on an outdoor adventure for me is reading about someone else’s. Below are the 9 greatest books on adventure. From climbing into the abyss on Everest to the story of one of history’s greatest Antarctic expeditions each of these books will pull you right into the action as if you were experiencing it for yourself.

The 9 Best Books on Adventure

1. Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage by Alfred Lansing
2. A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson
3. Klondike: The Last Great Gold Rush by Pierre Berton
4. Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer
5. In the Heart of the Sea by Nathaniel Philbrick
6. The Kingdom by Clive Cussler
7. The River of Doubt: Theodore Roosevelt’s Darkest Journey by Candice Millard
8. The Kon-Tiki Expedition: By Raft Across the South Seas by Thor Heyerdahl
9. Wild by Cheryl Strayed

1. Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage by Alfred Lansing

Set in the year 1914, Endurance is one of history’s most extraordinary sea adventures. This book recounts the story of the famed explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton and his crew of 28 men on their attempt to cross the Antarctic Continent. It is a tale of incredible determination and highlights the human will to survive. Shackleton displays one of the greatest demonstrations of leadership of his time against the most impossible of odds.

2. A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson

On his return back from living abroad in England, American Author Bill Bryson came up with the idea to hike the Appalachian Trail. The Appalachian Trail extends more than 2,200 miles (3,540 kilometers) long and starts in Springer Mountain, Georgia, and ends at Mount Katahdin in Maine. Through his use of history, comedy, and anecdotes, Bryson’s personal writing style makes you feel like you are on the actual trail along with him. A Walk in the Woods is perfect for any one who is thinking of doing the thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail.

3. Klondike: The Last Great Gold Rush by Pierre Berton

In 1896, gold was discovered in the Yukon Territory of Canada. Over the next couple of years, over 100,000 people from across the world descended on the Pacific Northwest in their own search for Klondike Gold. Author Pierre Berton brilliantly tells of their incredible journey though vast mountains and rushing rivers all while enduring arctic temperatures. Klondike is perfect for any one interested in Gold Rush history as well as learning about one of man’s greatest adventures.

4. Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer

Mount Everest sits on top of the world at 29,029 feet (8,848 meters). The brave few who attempt to conquer its summit face insurmountable odds, and the most inhospitable weather on the planet. On May 11^th, 1996, author Jon Krakauer was attempting to climb Mount Everest when the weather at the summit turned unexpectedly and a massive storm closed in. The result was one of the worst mountaineering disasters of our time. Into Thin Air tells the story of the courageous climbers on the mountain that fateful day and those that they had to leave behind.

5. In the Heart of the Sea by Nathaniel Philbrick

Based on a true story, Nathaniel Philbrick recounts the tale of the whale ship Essex. In 1819, the whaling ship and its twenty-member crew left Nantucket Island for the South Pacific. On their journey, they encountered an aggressive sperm whale that sank their vessel. Forced to abandon ship and huddle together in three small boats for ninety days, In the Heart of the Sea is a tale of epic struggle and human survival, and a must read for every adventurer.

The story inspired Herman Melville’s classic novel Moby-Dick, highlighting its lasting impact on maritime history. Philbrick’s detailed research and vivid storytelling bring to life the harrowing conditions faced by the crew as they battled starvation, exposure, and despair. This gripping narrative explores the limits of human endurance and the will to survive against overwhelming odds.

6. The Kingdom by Clive Cussler

There are few authors that can match Clive Cussler’s literary prowess. With over 50 titles to his name, Cussler’s ability to weave history, action, and adventure is unmatched. The Kingdom follows treasure hunters, Sam and Remi Fargo deep into the Himalayan mountains in Nepal as they look to solve an ancient mystery of monstrous proportions. It is filled with close calls, twists and turns, and as with any of the Clive Cussler novels you will be unable to put it down.

7. The River of Doubt: Theodore Roosevelt’s Darkest Journey by Candice Millard

Following his defeat in the 1912 Presidential election, history’s most famous adventurer Theodore Roosevelt headed to Brazil to navigate the river in one of the most dangerous places on earth, the Amazon jungle. Roosevelt, his son Kermit, famous Brazilian explorer Candido Rondon, and crew faced treacherous waters, tribal attacks, deadly diseases, and murder along their route. The River of Doubt follows Roosevelt on his journey of nearly 1,000 miles (1,609 kilometers) in which he cements his legacy as a champion of exploration and the environment.

8. The Kon-Tiki Expedition: By Raft Across the South Seas by Thor Heyerdahl

Norwegian Explorer Thor Heyerdahl, believed that people from South America could have settled in Polynesia over 700 years ago. To prove that it was possible, in 1947, Heyerdahl and a crew of five sailed a wooden raft, named Kon Tiki, 4,340 miles (6,985 kilometers) from Peru to an island in the South Pacific. On their 101-day adventure, they battled sharks, ferocious storms, and strife among the group. The Kon-Tiki Expedition, written by Heyerdahl boldly tells the story of the Kon Tiki and the crew that managed its sails.

9. Wild by Cheryl Strayed

The Pacific Coast Trail, one of America’s longest trails, is 2,663 miles (4,286 kilometers) in length and passes through 25 national forests, 7 national parks, and 3 U.S. states. Hiking the PCT is considered to be one of America’s great adventures. Author Cheryl Strayed, as a way to let go of and move on from her personal struggles decided to hike the Trail. Wild is a captivating novel, which shows how nature and adventure can heal and propel us to new heights in our lives.

I hope you enjoyed our Top 9 Best Books on Adventure. I look forward to one day reading about your great adventure!

If you would like to learn more about our adventures click HERE or if you have a favorite book on adventure we would love to hear about it just shoot me an email at info@explorerspassage.com.

Happy Reading!
Jeff

Jeff Bonaldi
Founder & CEO
The Explorer’s Passage

About Jeff Bonaldi
Jeff Bonaldi is the Founder and CEO of The Explorer’s Passage, a premier adventure travel company. His mission is to provide travelers with the opportunity to transform their lives and the planet through the power of adventure.

Learn more about Jeff’s story and his company HERE.

Share this post!

The post The 9 Best Books On Adventure appeared first on The Explorer's Passage.

Scott Jurek’s Incredible Journey

Both of us had been captivated with Scott Jurek’s record-breaking run on the Appalachian Trail (AT). Jurek who is arguably the greatest ultrarunner in history is also known for his New York Times Bestselling book Eat & Run. Starting on Springer Mountain in Georgia and finishing on the summit of Mount Katahdin in Maine, Jurek hiked, climbed, and ran nearly 2,200 miles (3,541 km) of the Appalachian Trail through 14 states in 46 days, 8 hours, and 7 minutes breaking the previous record by just 3 hours and 13 minutes. This means he averaged just under 50 miles (80 km) per day through some times rugged mountainous terrain. Blake and I were keen on creating our own mini version of Jurek’s miraculous journey.

Appalachian Trail Hiking

I had been on the Appalachian Trail hiking a few times in my life but never for more than a short hike or run. We knew we wanted our adventure to be on the Trail and whatever we decided to do we would want to complete in one day. Blake suggested we trail run Connecticut. At first I thought he meant a portion of the Connecticut section of the Appalachian Trail but after further clarification he wanted to do the whole state in one day. The Connecticut section is 52 miles (84 km) long and one of the most diverse but beautiful parts of the entire Appalachian Trail. Personally, I had never before hiked or ran more than 20 miles (32 km) in the mountains in one day so this would be a challenge for me. Eventually after a little debate we scaled it back to 33 miles (53 km). This would later prove to be a wise and potentially life-saving decision.

Adventure Logistics

Our plan was to start in the city of Kent, CT and head north to Salisbury, CT. We targeted 7:00 AM as the start time for the adventure which would mean we would need to meet at 6:00 AM at Salisbury, leave one car there, and drive to the trail entry point at Kent to park the second car before beginning the adventure.

It is important to note: I am a preparation freak! I am always overly prepared for each time I head into the mountains. I know that the unexpected can and usually does happen.

I actually wrote a guide on “How to Prepare for an Outdoor Adventure” that you can download on the capture form on the right hand side of this page!

The Appalachian Trail Hiking Adventure Begins

When we hit the trail entry point, we were excited to embark on our adventure. Even though I had never done this length of mileage before, I didn’t have any concerns because I knew that I was fit enough to handle it. The plan was we would run on flat and downhill terrain and walk when the grade was uphill. This strategy can really save your legs in the mountains.

The trail was serene and absolutely beautiful. We were instantly transported to a different world from what I am used to from living in Manhattan. The canopy that the trees created overhead provided much needed shade on this hot August day. We moved quickly along the trail and encountered very diverse terrain. From light rock scrambles to open meadows to mountain running to rushing rivers, we were in a state of pure bliss.

Refueling

Blake and I were stopping every 30 minutes or so to take in water, solids, and gels. I was trying to average 200 calories an hour because I knew that had worked well for me in the past. I also was sipping a quarter of a liter of water on each break to stay hydrated. When we ran out of water, we would refill our bottles at streams and other water sources that were situated approximately every 3 miles (5 km) along the route. I would always treat my water with the Steripen that has never failed me in the past. I had brought along electrolyte tablets but for some reason on this day I neglected to use them. Our pace held steady as we neared the final ¼ leg of the trip, and aside from some light foot pain I felt very physically strong.

The Turn of Events

As we neared mile 28 (km 45) I started to feel “off”. It began with a slight headache, then I felt dizzy and lethargic. At first I had no idea what was going on. I was hydrating; taking solids and sugars… then it hit me. I had not taken a single one of my electrolyte tablets. It was 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius) and I had not realized how much I was sweating. I reached into my pack and had barely a sip of water left in my bottle. I needed to find water and take my electrolyte tabs.

For the first time in my life, I was scared that I wouldn’t make it out of the mountains. I began to really deteriorate from this point on. Laboring to walk, my words weren’t coming out right. Blake noticed and asked me if I was ok but from his experience he already knew what was happening. We needed to find water and find it quick. The AT trail map said it was 3 miles (5 km) to the nearest water source. I told Blake I didn’t think I could make it that far. I began to debate on whether I would need to activate the SOS button on my Delorme InReach Satellite Communicator.

We decided to keep moving forward and ½ mile (0.8 km) down the road we ran into two hikers. They said there was a stream a little over 1 mile (1.6 km) north of our position. We pressed forward and first hit a smaller one ½ mile (0.8 km) away that was dried out and contained no drinking water. At that moment I got worse and entered into a very bad state. However, with Blake’s encouragement and the faith that water was near, we kept pushing forward.

Back to Life

We finally reached the stream. Barely able to function, I took out my 2 empty bottles, filled them up and began treating the water. Once my Steripen said that the water was safe to drink, I threw 2 electrolyte tablets in each bottle and started to sip slowly. I sat there for 5 minutes and took in half a liter. Then we got up and started to walk. Within 10 minutes, it was like a miracle, my body slowly but surely began to come back alive. While I didn’t feel 100%, I was strong enough to finish out the remaining miles and reach our car in Salisbury.

Reflection

My head hurt for 5 days after our Appalachian Trail hiking adventure. I knew that I was lucky that things did not turn out worse and I was fortunate to have Blake helping to push me forward. While I was so mad at myself for not taking the electrolytes throughout the trip, I had learned a valuable lesson that day, one that I will never forget. Whether hiking the AT or any other trail, I will never let myself or anyone with me get in that position again.

Blake are always talking about our next big adventure. Perhaps, we will give the whole 52 miles (84 km) a shot one day! Thanks to some major lessons learned, I know that whichever trail runs we decide in the future to do that I will be smarter and better prepared.

That moment of crisis really drove home how quickly conditions can change out on the trail, even when you think you’ve got everything covered. It’s easy to underestimate the subtle signs your body sends when it’s struggling, and even the most experienced adventurers can get caught off guard. This experience reminded me that preparation isn’t just about gear or planning the route—it’s about staying connected to your body and being ready to adapt at a moment’s notice.

Gear List

For this adventure we had the following gear and supplies:

• Counter Assault Bear Spray
• A Compass
• Delorme InReach Satellite Communicator
• Knife
• Carabiners
• Emergency First Aid Kit
• Bivy Sac
• Sun Screen
• Bug Spray
• Head Lamp
• Two Nalgene Bottles
• Steripin Adventurer Water Purifier
• Water Purification Tablets
• Backup Batteries
• Appalachian Trail Map
• Honey Stinger Gels
• Peanut Butter & Rice Cakes
• GU Brew Electrolyte Tablets

If you would like to learn more about our adventures click HERE or if you have had a scary moment in the mountains, we would love to hear about it. Just shoot us an email at info@explorerspassage.com.

I look forward to seeing you on the trail.

Cheers,
Jeff

Jeff Bonaldi
Founder & CEO
The Explorer’s Passage

About Jeff Bonaldi
Jeff Bonaldi is the Founder and CEO of The Explorer’s Passage, a premier adventure travel company. His mission is to provide travelers with the opportunity to transform their lives and the planet through the power of adventure.

Learn more about Jeff’s story and his company HERE.

Share this post!

The post An Appalachian Trail Hiking Adventure that Almost Turned Deadly appeared first on The Explorer's Passage.

Guess what? We’re giving away over $1,000 in prizes! Enter ‘The Adventure Travel Globetrotter Sweepstakes‘ below and you could win a GoPro Hero4 Silver, a $350 trip voucher which you can use towards one of our international Adventures, and up to three FREE spots on The General’s Fortress tour!

There are a number of ways to enter, but the best way to increase your odds is to click on the ‘Refer Your Friends’ tab, and share the sweepstakes with your friends. Each friend that joins the sweepstakes gives you 5 extra entry points! The contest closes at 11:59 PM on February 22, 2016. The draw date is February 24, 2016.

This sweepstakes is just one way we celebrate and connect with our incredible community of explorers. Your enthusiasm fuels our journey, and we’re excited to bring you more amazing opportunities to join us on the trail soon.

Good luck and I look forward to seeing you on the trail!

Cheers,
Jeff

Jeff Bonaldi
Founder & CEO
The Explorer’s Passage

About Jeff Bonaldi
Jeff Bonaldi is the Founder and CEO of The Explorer’s Passage, a premier adventure travel company. His mission is to provide travelers with the opportunity to transform their lives and the planet through the power of adventure.

Learn more about Jeff’s story and his company HERE.

The Adventure Travel Globetrotter Sweepstakes

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Listed below are my Top 8 Best Blogs on Adventure Travel. Each of them are written by individuals who have a gift for storytelling, a thirst for exploration and the courage to blaze their own path through life!

Reading their travel blog sites has helped me to keep motivated, and inspires me to plan my own new epic adventures.

The Top 8 Best Blogs On Adventure Travel

1. The Expert Vagabond – Matthew Karsten
2. Alison’s Adventures – Alison Teal
3. Alastair Humphreys
4. Andrew Skurka
5. Eric Larsen Explore – Eric Larsen
6. Section Hiker – Philip Werner
7. Wild Junket – Nellie Huang
8. SoCal Hiker – Jeff Hester

1.  The Expert Vagabond – Matthew Karsten

Visit Matthew’s Blog by clicking HERE or follow the link below:

https://expertvagabond.com/travel-blog/

As stated on his site, the definition of a vagabond is “wandering from place to place without any settled home; nomadic” and this perfectly sums up Karsten’s life. At the age of 29, Matthew quit his job, sold his possessions and headed out on the road. Karsten has traveled across the globe for five years while travel blogging to share his adventures with the world and he doesn’t have any plans to slow down. The Expert Vagabond is living proof that it is possible to live an adventurous life and follow your dreams.

2.  Alison’s Adventures – Alison Teal

Visit Alison’s Blog by clicking HERE or follow the link below:

https://alisonsadventures.com/news/

Continuously on the go, nothing can stop this worldwide adventurer who is dubbed “The Female Indiana Jones”. Whether she is surfing in Hawaii, exploring the ancient city of Petra, or backpacking through Indonesia, Alison Teal, through her adventures teaches people to follow their dreams while also showing the beauty of the world for all of us to see. Alison’s Adventures is one of the best adventure travel blogs on the web.

3.  Alastair Humphreys

Visit Alastair’s Blog by clicking HERE or follow the link below:

https://alastairhumphreys.com/blog/

This British adventurer who coined the term ‘microadventure’ advocates that people don’t need to go across the world to find adventure, but can actually find it closer to home. Although Humphreys has written a best-selling book on microadventures, this doesn’t stop him from continuously testing the boundaries of global exploration. Nominated as a National Geographic Adventurer in 2012, Humphreys has crossed Iceland by foot and pack raft, rowed across the Atlantic ocean, and cycled round the world for four years. This adventure travel blog is a must for anyone who loves to explore!

4.  Andrew Skurka

Visit Andrew’s Blog by clicking HERE or follow the link below:

https://andrewskurka.com/blog/

Described by National Geographic as “one of the best traveled and fastest hikers on the planet”, Andrew Skurka has made a name for himself by hiking super human distances across rugged terrain. One example is his 7,775-mile (12,513-kilometer), eleven month sea-to-sea route expedition. The sea-to-sea route connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans in the United States.

Being awarded the National Geographic Adventurer of the Year in 2007, Skurka has perfected the art of moving fast and lightly through the mountains, and has actually published a gear guide on the subject titled “The Ultimate Hiker’s Gear Guide: Tools & Techniques to Hit the Trail” which you can find HERE.

5.  Eric Larsen Explore – Eric Larsen

Visit Eric’s Blog by clicking HERE or follow the link below:

https://www.ericlarsenexplore.com/updates

The best way to describe explorer Eric Larsen is that he LOVES the cold. The seasoned polar explorer has skied to both the North and South Pole, and after summiting Mount Everest in October of 2010 Eric became the first person to reach the three poles in a 365 day period. He also uses his expeditions as a platform to create awareness on the effects of climate change on the earth.

I first saw Eric speak in 2014 at the REI Adventure Store in New York City and have been following this polar explorers’ adventures ever since.

6.  Section Hiker – Philip Werner

Visit Philip’s Blog by clicking HERE or follow the link below:

https://sectionhiker.com

Whenever I have a question on gear, backpacking skills, or a trail I am about to hike I always check out the Section Hiker blog. Section Hiker is an encyclopedia of information and is one of my go-to resources on the web for anything hiking related. The blog is penned by Philip Werner, who is an accomplished adventurer and has completed notable adventures such as the 272-mile (438-kilometer) long trail in Vermont and two coast-to-coast backpacking trips across the Scottish highlands.

With detailed gear reviews, trip planning advice, and technical hiking tips, it’s more than just a blog—it’s a deep well of knowledge. Whether you’re prepping for your first backcountry trek or refining your ultralight setup, Werner’s decades of experience and practical approach make this site a must-read.

A few year’s ago I was looking for help with an Appalachian trail hike and I was able to find everything that I needed on the Section Hiker blog.

7.  Wild Junket – Nellie Huang

Visit Nellie’s Blog by clicking HERE or follow the link below:

https://www.wildjunket.com/blog/

Professional adventure traveler Nellie Huang has been traveling the world since 2003 and documenting her journeys in the adventure blog, Wild Junket. With over ninety countries under her belt, regardless of whether she is climbing active volcanos in Guatemala, scuba diving in Borneo or exploring the Silk Road, Nellie is always in search of her next great adventure.

8.  SoCal Hiker – Jeff Hester

Visit Jeff’s Blog by clicking HERE or follow the link below:

https://socalhiker.net/

The SoCal hiker blog was created by Jeff Hester and is an excellent resource of trails for those who live in the Southern California area. Many of the blog posts are written as detailed guides with trail descriptions and photos to help you navigate. For those who are interested in hiking the John Muir trail, there is one of the most comprehensive guides that I have seen, which will help you plan your adventure. Anyone that loves to explore the mountains, the SoCal Hiker is one of the best travel blog sites on the web.

We hope that you have enjoyed our post on the 8 Best Blogs on Adventure Travel. If you would like to learn more about our adventures click HERE or if you have a favorite blog on adventure travel we would love to hear about it just shoot us an email at info@explorerspassage.com.

I look forward to seeing you on the trail!

Cheers,
Jeff

Jeff Bonaldi
Founder & CEO
The Explorer’s Passage

About Jeff Bonaldi
Jeff Bonaldi is the Founder and CEO of The Explorer’s Passage, a premier adventure travel company. His mission is to provide travelers with the opportunity to transform their lives and the planet through the power of adventure.

Learn more about Jeff’s story and his company HERE.

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Every once in a while I come across a video that so perfectly brings the authenticity of a destination to life. In the Road to Machu Picchu – Peru in 4K, the extraordinary filmmaker Devin Graham (aka Devin Super Tramp) makes you feel like you are in Peru trekking the mythical Inca Trail. He beautifully presents the culture of the Peruvian people and the wonder that is Machu Picchu. Click HERE or on the video player below to watch.

What makes this video especially powerful is its focus on the Incan descendants who still call this region home. Devin Graham captures their vibrant traditions, daily life, and deep connection to the land—offering a glimpse into the living culture that makes trekking the Inca Trail so meaningful.

I hope you enjoyed this amazing video. If you are interested in learning more about our Inca Trail adventure tour to Machu Picchu, check it out here. Or, if you have a favorite video on adventure, we would love to hear about it, just shoot us an email at info@explorerspassage.com.

I look forward to seeing you on the trail!

Cheers,
Jeff

Jeff Bonaldi
Founder & CEO
The Explorer’s Passage

About Jeff Bonaldi
Jeff Bonaldi is the Founder and CEO of The Explorer’s Passage, a premier adventure travel company. His mission is to provide travelers with the opportunity to transform their lives and the planet through the power of adventure.

Learn more about Jeff’s story and his company HERE.

Share this amazing location!

The post Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – Peru in 4K (Video) – Devin Graham appeared first on The Explorer's Passage.

Each year, in Lo Manthang, Upper Mustang’s capital, the Tiji Festival takes places. The Tiji Festival is a spring-renewal party that ushers in the monsoons while celebrating the triumph of good over evil in a ritual locals call “the chasing of the demons.” During this three-day ceremony, the town square fills with characters clad as demons in flamboyant robes and hideous masks dancing about, slashing at the air with their swords and intoning spells over onlookers.

In recent years, the Tiji Festival has gained global recognition for its cultural significance, drawing travelers, scholars, and photographers eager to witness this rare spiritual celebration. Despite its growing popularity, the festival remains deeply rooted in local tradition, offering visitors a unique glimpse into a way of life that has endured for centuries amidst the stunning landscapes of the Himalayas.

Filmmaker Yannick Calonge beautifully provides a window into this extraordinary destination while showcasing the ancient Buddhist traditions and customs that make Upper Mustang one of our worlds greatest treasures.

If you are interested in learning more about our Upper Mustang adventures, click HERE or if you have a favorite video from one of your adventures we would love to hear about it, just shoot us an email at info@explorerspassage.com.

I look forward to seeing you on the trail!

Cheers,
Jeff

Jeff Bonaldi
Founder & CEO
The Explorer’s Passage

About Jeff Bonaldi
Jeff Bonaldi is the Founder and CEO of The Explorer’s Passage, a premier adventure travel company. His mission is to provide travelers with the opportunity to transform their lives and the planet through the power of adventure.

Learn more about Jeff’s story and his company HERE.

Share this amazing location!

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