South America is a continent of extremes—towering Andean peaks, lush Amazon rainforests, arid deserts, and glacial landscapes. For hiking enthusiasts, it’s a dream destination packed with some of the most diverse and awe-inspiring trails in the world. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a casual nature lover, South America offers unforgettable experiences through its incredible terrains.
In this article, we’ll explore the best hikes in South America, spanning multiple countries and a range of difficulty levels, from challenging multi-day treks to scenic day hikes.
1. Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (Peru)
Duration: 4 days
Distance: 26 miles (42 km)
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Best Time to Go: May to September
Arguably the most iconic hike in South America, the Inca Trail takes you through ancient ruins, cloud forests, and high-altitude passes, culminating at the legendary Machu Picchu. This well-preserved path is steeped in history, offering hikers a rare blend of natural beauty and archaeological wonder.
Highlights:
- Wiñay Wayna ruins
- Sun Gate (Inti Punku) sunrise
- Guided exploration of Machu Picchu
Permit Required: Yes (book months in advance)
2. Torres del Paine W Trek (Chile)
Duration: 4–5 days
Distance: 50 miles (80 km)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Go: November to March
Located in Patagonia’s Torres del Paine National Park, the W Trek is renowned for its surreal landscapes—glacial lakes, rugged mountains, and dramatic granite spires. This trek offers a relatively comfortable infrastructure with refugios (mountain lodges) and campsites along the way.
Highlights:
- Grey Glacier
- French Valley
- Towers of Paine
Good to Know: Weather can be extreme and unpredictable—come prepared!
3. Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City), Colombia
Duration: 4–6 days
Distance: 28 miles (46 km) round trip
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Best Time to Go: December to March
Before Machu Picchu, there was Ciudad Perdida, the Lost City of the Tayrona people, hidden deep in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta jungle. This hike is a real adventure—river crossings, steep climbs, and humid conditions—but the cultural reward is immense.
Highlights:
- Indigenous villages along the trail
- Ancient terraces of the Lost City
- Jungle wildlife and waterfalls
Permit Required: Yes, usually arranged through a guided tour
4. Mount Roraima (Venezuela, Brazil, Guyana)
Duration: 6–8 days
Distance: ~35 miles (56 km)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Go: December to April
Mount Roraima, the tabletop mountain that inspired Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s The Lost World, is one of the oldest geological formations on Earth. The trail features high plateaus, strange rock formations, and stunning views from the top.
Highlights:
- Unique flora and fauna (many endemic species)
- Surreal landscapes on the summit
- Views over three countries at once
Access Tip: Most hikes begin from the Venezuelan side, usually from the town of Paraitepui.
5. Laguna de los Tres, El Chaltén (Argentina)
Duration: Day hike (6–8 hours)
Distance: 12.5 miles (20 km)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Go: November to March
If you’re short on time but want a classic Patagonia hike, Laguna de los Tres is ideal. This scenic trail starts from El Chaltén and leads to an alpine lake with postcard views of Mount Fitz Roy, often compared to the Matterhorn.
Highlights:
- Fitz Roy reflections in the lake
- Dramatic glaciers and wildflowers
- Wildlife including condors and guanacos
6. Quilotoa Loop (Ecuador)
Duration: 3–5 days
Distance: 30–40 miles (48–64 km)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Go: June to September
This Andean village-to-village trek in central Ecuador is less crowded and more culturally immersive. It loops around the jaw-dropping Quilotoa Crater Lake, a turquoise volcanic lagoon perched at 3,900 meters above sea level.
Highlights:
- Homestays with indigenous families
- Panoramic views of the Andes
- Optional side trips to markets and artisan towns
7. The Huayhuash Circuit (Peru)
Duration: 10–12 days
Distance: 81–99 miles (130–160 km)
Difficulty: Challenging
Best Time to Go: May to September
This remote high-altitude trek is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Located in the Cordillera Huayhuash range, it passes snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and dramatic valleys—offering a more secluded experience than the Inca Trail.
Highlights:
- Views of Yerupajá and Siula Grande
- Glacial lakes (e.g., Laguna Carhuacocha)
- Wild camping in pristine nature
Altitude Warning: Trails often exceed 4,500 m—acclimatization is critical.
8. Chapada Diamantina (Brazil)
Duration: 3–5 days (or day hikes)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Best Time to Go: May to September
For those looking to pair hiking with swimming in crystal-clear waterfalls, Chapada Diamantina National Park in Bahia is a hidden gem. With caves, canyons, and table mountains, this area offers something for every level of hiker.
Highlights:
- Fumaça Waterfall (one of Brazil’s tallest)
- Enchanted and Blue Caves (Poço Encantado & Poço Azul)
- Remote villages and rich biodiversity
9. Valle de Cocora (Colombia)
Duration: Day hike (4–6 hours)
Distance: ~7.5 miles (12 km)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Best Time to Go: December to February
This lush green valley in Colombia is famous for the wax palms, the tallest palm trees in the world. The loop trail offers a magical experience through misty forests and open pastures.
Highlights:
- Wax palm forests reaching up to 60 meters
- Birdwatching (including hummingbirds and toucans)
- Scenic bridges and cloud forests
10. Ausangate Trek (Peru)
Duration: 5–7 days
Distance: ~43 miles (70 km)
Difficulty: Challenging
Best Time to Go: May to October
This lesser-known alternative to the Inca Trail circles the sacred Ausangate Mountain and offers stunning alpine scenery, hot springs, and colorful high-altitude lakes. Bonus: fewer crowds and possible sightings of Andean wildlife like vicuñas.
Highlights:
- Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) side trip
- Remote high-altitude lakes
- Natural hot springs
Tips for Hiking in South America
- Acclimatize Properly: Many of these treks are at high altitudes. Spend a few days adjusting beforehand to avoid altitude sickness.
- Hire Local Guides: Especially for multi-day or remote treks, local guides enhance safety and provide cultural insights.
- Pack Smart: Layered clothing, water purification tools, sunscreen, and waterproof gear are essentials.
- Travel Insurance: Make sure it covers trekking and emergency evacuation.
Conclusion
South America is a hiker’s paradise, offering trails that range from jungle-covered ruins to glacial mountain passes. Whether you’re looking for a spiritual experience, a physical challenge, or just awe-inspiring natural beauty, the continent delivers in spades.
Each of the hikes listed above offers a unique perspective on the landscapes and cultures of South America. All you need is a backpack, a sense of adventure, and a good pair of hiking boots.
