You won’t find such incredible natural diversity, fascinating history, delicious food, and unique culture anywhere else in the world but South America! These twelve countries are famous for their rugged, untamed nature, party scene, and gorgeous sights, man-made and otherwise. While any trip to South America promises to be a memory that’ll last forever, one of the best ways to explore this jaw-dropping continent is through hiking and trekking. If you want to hit the trails in South America, read on for our guide to the best hikes in South America!
Machu Picchu
- Location: Peru
- Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult, depending on the route
- Length: 3-5 days, 20-65 kilometres, depending on the route
A classic, and probably what most people think of when they think of hiking and trekking in South America, Machu Picchu sits high on many bucket lists. There are several options to reach this sacred ancient city, but the most rewarding, arguably, is through hiking or trekking. While you’ll need a permit for the Inca Trail, the region’s most popular trek which spans 45 kilometres and takes four to five days to complete, the other six trails are freely available for intrepid explorers. Make sure you’re prepared by reading our complete guide to Machu Picchu!
Paso Los Cuernos, Torres del Paine National Park
- Location: Chilean Patagonia
- Difficulty: Easy
- Length: 4-6 hours, 11 kilometres
Patagonia’s wild nature is a huge draw for many, but if you aren’t quite ready or able to climb mountains and trek for days, Paso Los Cuernos may be the perfect compromise. This day hike, located in Torres del Paine National Park, provides some of the best photo opportunities in Patagonia. Hiking along the breathtakingly blue Nordenskjold Lake, visitors are treated to views of the “horns” that give this route its name; massive, striped rocks jutting out from the earth. If you only have time for one hike in Torres del Paine National Park, Paso Los Cuernos should definitely be on your short list!
Laguna de Los Tres, El Chalten
- Location: Argentinian Patagonia
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Length: 8 hours, 12.5 kilometres
Located on one of the southernmost points of Patagonia, El Chalten is the start point for many hikes and treks in the region. If you’re looking for a moderately-challenging hike you can still finish in a day, Laguna de Los Tres is a great option. You’ll see native species of unique plants, turquoise lakes, icebergs, and massive granite spires, to name a few! If you’d like, travellers have the option of extending their hike to two days, camping in one of several spots by glistening lakes along the way. Note that, at the beginning and end of this hike, the trail becomes extremely steep, and travellers should be prepared and able to hike up and down steep inclines.
Isla del Sol
- Location: Bolivia
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Length: 6 hours, 8 kilometres
Ruins of the Inca civilization can be spotted everywhere in Isla del Sol. The “birthplace of the sun” was populated in the 15th century, and today remains a quiet island with no motorised traffic at all. Basically, it’s the perfect place for a hike! This hike comes with some legendary stops along the way; travellers are treated to a view of Puma Rock and the ruins of the Temple of the Sun, what was believed to be the Fountain of Youth, and ancient steps leading into a lake. While the hike is generally easy-going, travellers who experience altitude sickness may have trouble with it. Make sure you’ve acclimatized before attempting any kind of physical activity.
Tercera Barranca to Sierra Baguales
- Location: Chile
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Length:dependant on route and pace
Another day hike located near Torres del Paine National Park, Sierra Baguales sits as a sparkling hidden gem on the border between Chile and Argentina. Here, visitors can catch a glimpse of wild horses and walk through ancient history. The untouched nature here is truly second to none: where else can you find ancient shark’s teeth, fossils, and tree trunks over 20 million years old? There’s no official path or trail for this hike, but we think it’s more than worth it. Note that the weather in Sierra Baguales is notoriously spotty and windy, so if you’re planning to take this hike on, make sure you prepare accordingly.
South America Trekking Tours
If you’re considering taking one of these hikes on and feeling South America under your boots, there are many options and precautions to consider. One great way to avoid some of the stress of planning a large hiking or trekking tour is by joining a group tour, where many of your meals, accommodations, and activities are included. You’ll also have the added comfort of travelling with like-minded people, and enjoy the safety that a group tour provides!
Hiking in South America is an opportunity that should never be passed up if you can help it! From lush jungles to craggy cliffs and everything in between, your next adventure could be closer than you think.
What’s your favourite hiking trail in South America? Let us know!
