Located in the Patagonia region of southern Chile, the Torres del Paine National Park is a mecca for hikers, offering some of the most stunning landscapes on Earth. The crown jewel of the park is the W Circuit, named for the shape of the trail, which passes by glacial lakes, massive ice fields, and the towering granite peaks that give the park its name.
The complete circuit, which takes about 7 to 10 days to hike, takes you through a diverse range of environments. You’ll traverse windswept grasslands, dense forests, and rocky passes, often with the jagged peaks of the Torres del Paine as a backdrop. Glacier-fed lakes such as Lago Nordenskjöld and Lago Pehoé shimmer in turquoise hues, while encounters with wildlife, including guanacos and condors, are common. As you ascend the Base de las Torres, a steep and rocky climb, the sight of the three towering granite spires at sunrise is a reward worth every step.
Across the globe, UNESCO World Heritage sites offer a window into human history, architecture, and the natural environment. Among these, certain towns stand out for their unique cultural, historical, and architectural significance.
