This continent is home to a number of famous trails, including those such as the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru or the Torres del Paine W-Trek in Chile. But there are also lesser-known routes—like the hike to the small village of Isinliví in Ecuador—which are just as beautiful.
One of the great things about trekking in South America is the variety of the types of trails. There are walking holidays for those who prefer an easy way to enjoy the outdoors and backpacking adventures for those looking for a challenge. Both veteran hikers and novice trekkers will love walking in South America.
In this article, we’ll discuss South America’s best hikes, detailing why this region is excellent for trekking and tips for planning your adventure.
Explore South America’s Finest Trails: Your Ultimate Trekking Guide
Let’s dive into the top treks in South America!
Why South America for Hiking and Trekking?
This continent truly has everything you could want. On hiking holidays in South America, you can explore mountains, rainforests, deserts, glaciers, and more—not to mention the rich culture and distinctive wildlife you’ll be able to see here.
The Andes Mountains abound with wonders like the world’s highest navigable lake and the only species of bear on the continent. Made up of a collection of mountain chains, they are the longest range on the globe. Offering miles and miles of hiking trails, these peaks beckon all hikers.
But those mountains aren’t the only stunning feature of the continent—Patagonia is a region encompassing the southern tip. On the South American hiking trails here, you’ll find arid steppes, grasslands, and deserts, along with glacial fjords and temperate rainforests.
In addition to its magnificent regions, South America offers a plethora of guided tours. These excursions ensure that hikers have a good experience. Handling the logistics and safety concerns, guided tours let trekkers focus on being in nature. With the local expertise of the guides, hikers won’t have to stress about anything.
Top Hiking and Trekking Destinations in South America
We could go on and on about the reasons to hike through South America, but you’re here for the best places to hike in South America. Here they are.
Peru
Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is a renowned site in South America. This ancient Incan city is reachable through many Peru hiking tours, including the Ancascocha trail. With significantly less foot traffic than the other trails, this hike will give you a truly unique experience as you make your way to Machu Picchu.
Named as one of 20 dream hikes in the world by National Geographic, the Ancascocha trail offers breathtaking scenery, high-altitude hiking, and opportunities to see blue lagoons, snow-capped peaks, and the Rainbow Mountain.
On this iconic South American hike, you’ll connect with nature and experience local culture and traditions. The trail passes Quechua-speaking farming communities, whose culture has endured largely unchanged for hundreds of years. Peek into the Incan way of life as you visit the more secluded areas of Cusco.
Cordillera Blanca
Making up a portion of the Andes, Cordillera Blanca was once home to many pre-Inca cultures. This range boasts the world’s highest tropical mountain, Huascarán, at 22,205 feet (6,768 m). It goes without saying, these mountains are full of treasures for the committed trekker.
One such treasure is the Olleros-Chavin Trek, also known as the Llama Trek. This trail once served as a trade route, but now it is a beautiful trek that allows hikers to experience an ancient Pre-Inca trail. Crossing the Cordillera Blanca from west to east, you’ll see spectacular views of snow-capped mountains like Huantsán, Uruashraju, and Cashan. Trekkers will traverse high mountain passes and walk through vast valleys. The hike leads to the iconic Chavin Temple, an ancient religious center with incredible architecture.
As the name suggests, llamas will join you on this trek. The Olleros community has recently embraced the llama as their primary form of transport, offering a unique and authentic experience for travelers and allowing them to witness the daily life of the Andean people who live nearby.
Chile
North Patagonia
Chile’s hiking tours are nothing short of amazing. In north Patagonia, along a section of Carretera Austral, one of the most beautiful roads, lies a gorgeous landscape. The North Patagonian Ice Field is one of two remnants of the Patagonia Ice Sheet. Hiking around the area, you’ll see stunning views of the ice field, forests, waterfalls, rivers, and turquoise waters.
Close by is General Carrera Lake. This deep lake is decorated with turquoise and sapphire waters and known for its marble caves that appear to be sculpted by a master. While the surrounding area is cold and humid, the lake enjoys a sunny microclimate, benefiting the settlements along its shores.
Puerto Sánchez is one of these settlements. A historic mining town, Puerto Sánchez provides opportunities for engaging with the local culture and learning about the history of the area.
Andes Mountains
Full of ancient ruins, towering peaks, volcanoes, lakes, and a rich ecosystem, the Andes are not something to pass up on a trip to South America. In the portion of the mountain range that lies in Chile, you can experience one of the best multi-day hikes in South America, a five-day trek that will take you through beautiful forests and past amazing lakes. You’ll even be able to relax in natural thermal hot springs along the trail.
Condor Circuit is a lesser-known trail that explores a picturesque area, starting from Parque Ingles in Radal Siete Tazas National Reserve and ending in Altos de Lircay Reserva Nacional. With 50 miles (80 km) of trekking ahead, packhorses provide support along the way.
On this tour, hike through native forests, pass distinctive rock formations like the Colmillo del Diablo (Devil’s Fang), and take in colorful peaks like Manantial Pelado mountain.
Argentina
Valley of Tears
In the heart of the Andes lies a unique Argentina hiking tour that combines exciting exploration, magnificent scenery, and a story of survival and resilience.
In October 1972, a flight to Santiago, Chile, crashed in the Andes mountains. The survivors spent more than 2 months in the mountains before finally being rescued, a rescue known as the “Miracle of the Andes.”
Hike to the crash site, where you can feel the spirit of the survivors and honor those who perished. Along the way, you’ll navigate rushing rivers, serene lagoons, and rugged peaks. Sleep in mountain tents under the stars and enjoy the beauty of the area.
Aconcagua Park
A provincial park in the Mendoza Province of Argentina, Aconcagua Park is full of exquisite beauty. This protected area is home to Mount Aconcagua, the tallest peak in South America.
Here you can embark on the Aconcagua Plaza Francia Trek. The 3-day journey through the park is perfect for intermediate hikers. You’ll hike to a gorgeous lookout of Aconcagua's South Face, 13,779 feet (4,200 meters) in elevation. Soak in the picturesque views of one of the largest ice walls in the world. Cascading waterfalls, flowing rivers, and awesome glaciers will greet you at every turn on this iconic South American hike.
Along with the extraordinary beauty surrounding you, you’re in for a treat at Confluencia Camp. These cozy accommodations will serve as a respite from the adventures of the day. Relax with delicious meals and refreshing drinks, and stay in a cozy geodesic dome.
Ecuador
Cotopaxi
For the serious hikers and climbers, Cotopaxi is something you can’t miss. The second-highest summit in Ecuador, this stratovolcano stands tall at 19,347 feet (5,897 m), placing it among the tallest active volcanoes in the world.
Climbing Cotopaxi is no small feat, which is why expert guides will lead you through the process. Trek first to Rucu Pichincha, another peak in Ecuador at 15,407 feet (4,696 m), and then to the peak of Iliniza Norte (16,818 ft/5,126 m) to acclimatize. You’ll take a rest day at Quilotoa Lake, a toxic lake with a blue-green color caused by dissolved volcanic minerals. Here you can visit the lagoon, village, and viewpoints or complete the crater rim trek.
The next day, begin your Cotopaxi ascent by hiking from Cotopaxi National Park to a refuge, where you’ll have dinner and rest. The following day starts early as the trek to the summit takes 7-8 hours. It will all be worth it when you reach the top of that snow-capped peak and take in the stunning views.
The Amazon
Finally, yet equally remarkable is the Amazon Rainforest. Also called Amazonia or the Amazon jungle, the Amazon is the largest rainforest on the planet, covering portions of 8 countries.
Ecuador hiking tours in the Amazon allow travelers to explore the vibrant wilderness of this rainforest. You can journey to Yasuní National Park, a protected area between the Napo and Curaray Rivers. The park is home to hundreds of species of birds, mammals, amphibians, and bats.
Sleep along the banks of the Shiripuno River, and travel the rainforest like a nomad. Meet the Huaoranis, a group of indigenous people native to the Amazon, and gain insight into their culture and way of life. Take a canoe ride through the serene waters of the forest and hike through the trees, enjoying the sounds of nature and wildlife around you.
Tips for Planning Your South America Hiking Adventure
Now that you’re excited to visit the best places to hike in South America, you might be wondering how to plan a trip there. Don’t worry. We’ve got all the tips you need.
When to Visit
As South America is a large continent with varied climates, it can be hard to know when to visit different regions.
The sunny weather and long days of the summer (December-February) are ideal for exploring colder climates and upper elevations.
The Urubamba Province can be visited anytime from late March to mid-December, but it is more crowded in the dry season (June-August).
The dry season is the best time to visit the Amazon; however, the forest is a year-round destination.
Gear
You’ll need the proper gear when hiking through South America. Like with the best time to visit, some of the gear you need will depend on where you are going.
In general, you’ll need good hiking shoes or boots, walking pants, light moisture-wicking shirts, layers to add if necessary, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hiking bag, a water bottle, and a camera.
In colder climates, you may also want gloves, fleece jackets, and a warm hat.
Fitness Preparation
Hiking or walking in South America requires some physical preparation. While many hikes are easy to moderate, it never hurts to be prepared. Train before your trip, hiking or walking in your area to ensure you’re ready.
Guided Tours
Walking holidays in South America can be hard to plan, but that’s where guided tours come in. On a tour, you don’t have to stress about logistics like permits, meals, etc. Your expert guides will handle everything.
Conclusion
South America is a beautiful continent. From the peaks of the Andes to the rivers of the Amazon, the hiking trails of South America are brimming with opportunities for exploration.
On the top treks in South America, you can summit peaks like Cotopaxi, explore the gorgeous General Carrera Lake area, or view glaciers like the North Patagonian Ice Field. From the most well-known trails down to the lesser-known hikes like the Condor Circuit, South America’s hikes are nothing short of iconic.
Ready to conquer iconic trails like the Inca Trail? Browse our South America hiking tours and start your adventure today!
