South America is an amazing place for hiking, offering diverse landscapes, rich cultures, and a variety of environments. The hiking trails in this part of the world take you through national parks, ancient ruins, scenic valleys, barren lands, snowy peaks, and towering volcanoes. If you’re a fan of dramatic hikes, South America has plenty to offer. Let’s explore some of the best hikes in different countries:
Machu Picchu in Peru is a must-visit. This iconic Inca citadel is famous for its historical ruins and breathtaking mountain views. Getting there is easy by taking a train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, followed by a bus ride. For those who love hiking, the Inca Trail offers a four-day trek starting near Cusco and ending at Machu Picchu. It’s a demanding hike but worth the effort, so much so that it’s often seen as the highlight of a trip to Peru. Remember to book your spot on the Inca Trail well in advance. If you miss out, the Salkantay Trek is a great alternative. This five-day hike starts in the village of Mollepata, around 100 km from Cusco.
Another noteworthy hike in Peru is the Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek. This trek is more challenging and less crowded, featuring remote, high-altitude trails with steep ascents and descents. The trek showcases snowy peaks, glaciers, mountain lakes, and the vibrant stripes of Rainbow Mountain, which make it a fantastic sight to behold. This route spans 70 km and typically takes 4-5 days to complete.
In Chile, the W-Trek in Torres del Paine National Park is renowned for its dramatic scenery. The park, located in Patagonia, is one of South America’s most stunning regions. With jagged peaks, blue glaciers, and golden grasslands, the 71 km W-Trek is a fantastic way to soak in the park’s beauty. The trek offers spectacular views of granite towers, emerald lakes, and glaciers, and can be completed in 4-5 days, or broken into shorter day hikes.
Colombia offers the Ciudad Perdida (Lost City) trek, an ancient archaeological site believed to have been founded around 800 CE. Older than Machu Picchu, this trek is challenging but highly rewarding. It covers 42 km and takes about four days, leading hikers through jungles, ancient ruins, waterfalls, and villages. The trek includes steep climbs, descents, and river crossings, which can be particularly tricky during the rainy season.
Ecuador’s Quilotoa Loop is another popular trek, spanning 30 km and usually taking three days to complete. Starting in Sigchos and ending at the Quilotoa crater lake, the hike features beautiful green hills and distant views of Mount Cotopaxi. The trek’s highlight is the stunning Laguna Quilotoa, a bright blue lake within a volcanic crater, surrounded by Andean peaks.
Brazil boasts the Parque Nacional dos Lençóis Maranhenses, known for its seasonal rainwater lagoons and vast desert-like landscape of tall white dunes. Hiking through this park, especially after the rainy season, is a unique experience. The 40 km trek, taking about five days, reveals thousands of crystal-clear freshwater lagoons nestled among pristine desert dunes.
Lastly, the Grand Circuit in Chapada Diamantina National Park is another gem in Brazil. This trek, though challenging with its steep slopes and river crossings, covers around 30 km. The park itself is a stunning mix of mesas, deep ravines, and lush grasslands. One of the highlights of this trek is the magnificent Mixila waterfall.
In summary, whether you are an experienced hiker or just seeking adventure, South America offers numerous unforgettable hiking experiences. From Peru to Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, and Brazil, the continent’s trails offer a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and rewarding challenges.