Follow this guide to discover the best hiking South America has to offer – including the best hiking routes and regions in South America.
Summarising hiking in South America is no easy task given its vast and diverse landscapes.
This continent is a treasure trove for adventurers, offering some of the world’s most spectacular hiking trails.
Imagine traversing snowy mountain peaks, wandering through dense rainforests, climbing active volcanoes, and discovering ancient ruins – all in one epic journey. Whether you embark on a multi-day trek through the Andes or enjoy a short, rewarding day hike, South America’s trails promise unforgettable experiences.
To help you kickstart your South American hiking adventure, we’ve curated a guide to the continent’s best trails and hiking regions. Dive in and find your next great adventure!
Where to Go Hiking in South America
South America is a hiker’s paradise with its diverse landscapes and ecosystems. Of course, it’s also a massive continent, so there are many different opportunities for hiking in South America.
From high mountains and ancient trails to dense rainforests and remote wilderness areas, there’s so much to experience here. Whether you’re looking for well-known routes or off-the-beaten-path adventures, the continent has something to offer for every type of hiker.
To help you start planning your hiking adventure, here’s a breakdown of the main hiking regions in South America.
Patagonia (Argentina and Chile)
Patagonia is a dramatic wilderness area shared by Argentina and Chile. It’s famous for its glaciers, jagged mountain peaks, and stunning national parks.
The region offers challenging hikes with breathtaking scenery, including vast ice fields, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife.
Andes Mountains (Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina)
The Andes, the longest mountain range in the world, stretch along the western edge of South America. This region offers a variety of hiking options:
- Ecuador: Known for its “Avenue of Volcanoes,” where you can hike among towering volcanic peaks.
- Peru: Home to the famous Inca Trail and many other ancient trails leading to ruins and archaeological sites.
- Bolivia: Features high-altitude treks with stunning landscapes and unique cultural experiences.
- Chile and Argentina: Both countries offer numerous trails that cross the high Andean passes, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Amazon Rainforest (Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador)
The Amazon Rainforest spans several countries and is one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth.
Hiking in the Amazon offers a chance to explore dense jungles, encounter unique wildlife, and experience indigenous cultures. This vast biome provides an immersive experience into one of the world’s most vital ecosystems.
Colombia
Colombia is gaining popularity among hikers for its diverse terrain and rich history.
The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta offers treks to the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida), an ancient archaeological site deep in the rainforest. The country’s varied climate zones provide a wide range of hiking environments, from lush jungles to high-altitude páramo landscapes.
Brazil
Brazil offers diverse hiking opportunities beyond the Amazon.
The Chapada Diamantina and Chapada dos Veadeiros national parks feature plateaus, waterfalls, and unique rock formations. The Atlantic Forest coastal trails provide scenic hikes with ocean views and rich biodiversity.
Venezuela
Venezuela’s Gran Sabana region is home to the famous tepuis – flat-topped mountains with vertical cliffs. Hiking here includes exploring unique geological formations, waterfalls, and the challenging ascent of Mount Roraima.
Peru
Peru is renowned for its historical hikes, particularly those leading to ancient Incan sites.
Beyond the famous Inca Trail, there are lesser-known routes that offer equally impressive scenery and fewer crowds. The Cordillera Blanca and Cordillera Huayhuash mountain ranges are ideal for high-altitude treks with stunning glacial landscapes.
Bolivia
Bolivia offers some of the most remote and untouched hiking experiences in South America.
The country is known for its diverse ecosystems, from the high-altitude Altiplano to the lush Yungas valleys. Hikes here often combine natural beauty with cultural immersion.
25 Best Hikes in South America
Now that you know where you can go hiking in South America, let’s get into which trails you should choose.
No matter what kind of hiking experience you’re after, here are our top picks for the best hiking South America has to offer.
1. The Lost City Trek, Colombia
- Perfect for: Indiana Jones wannabes
- Duration: 3-4 days
- Difficulty Level: Challenging
- Closest Airport: Santa Marta
The Lost City Trek, also known as Ciudad Perdida, takes you deep into Colombia’s Sierra Nevada mountain range to an ancient Tayrona city, believed to have been founded around 800 AD.
This 27-mile (44-kilometer) trek involves navigating dense rainforests, crossing multiple rivers, and climbing approximately 1,200 ancient stone steps to reach the archaeological site.
The journey is physically demanding, with high humidity and rugged terrain, but it rewards trekkers with breathtaking scenery, a sense of adventure, and an intimate look at indigenous cultures.
Our Top Tips
- Spend a day or two in Santa Marta to acclimatise to the heat and humidity.
- Local guides are mandatory and highly knowledgeable about the history and ecology of the area.
- Bring lightweight, quick-drying clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and insect repellent. Check out our ultralight backpacking gear list for inspiration.
- Prepare for river crossings with waterproof bags to protect your gear.
- Ensure you’re up-to-date with vaccinations, as the jungle environment can harbour various health risks.
2. The Samana Watershed Hike, Colombia
- Perfect for: Untouched jungle hikes
- Duration: 3 days
- Difficulty Level: Challenging
- Closest Airport: Medellín
This trek through the Samana Watershed takes you into one of Colombia’s most biodiverse regions, which was previously inaccessible due to conflict. Now open to adventurers, the trail traverses pristine jungles, and lush river valleys, and offers the chance to swim in natural pools and raft on wild rivers.
The area is renowned for its ecological diversity, with numerous species of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife.
Our Top Tips
- Engage with local guides who can provide insights into the region’s natural history and conservation efforts.
- Prepare for humidity and rain; pack waterproof clothing and a poncho.
- Bring a camera with a good zoom lens for wildlife photography.
- Consider combining your hike with a rafting expedition for a unique adventure.
- Respect the natural environment and stick to Leave No Trace principles.
3. Kaieteur Falls Trek, Guyana
- Perfect for: Chasing waterfalls
- Duration: 3-4 days
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Closest Airport: Georgetown
Kaieteur Falls is one of the world’s most impressive waterfalls, with a single drop of 741 feet (226 meters).
The trek to the falls begins with a flight to a remote airstrip followed by a hike through lush rainforest. The journey offers the opportunity to see rare and endemic species such as the Guiana Cock-of-the-rock and the golden poison frog.
The trail culminates at the falls, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and the misty spray from the waterfall.
Our Top Tips
- Book your flight to the airstrip well in advance, as availability can be limited.
- Consider joining a guided tour to enhance your understanding of the local ecology.
- Experience overnight camping in hammocks for a true rainforest adventure.
- Be cautious near the waterfall’s edge; the rocks can be slippery.
- Bring waterproof camera gear to capture the stunning scenery and wildlife.
4. The Salkantay Route to Machu Picchu, Peru
- Perfect for: Intrepid trekkers and archaeology enthusiasts
- Duration: 5 days
- Difficulty Level: Challenging
- Closest Airport: Cusco
The Salkantay Trek is a less crowded alternative to the Inca Trail, offering equally stunning Andean scenery.
The route spans approximately 46 miles (74 kilometres), starting at the village of Mollepata and passing through diverse landscapes, including cloud forests, high mountain passes, and alpine tundra.
Highlights include the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, the 15,213-foot (4,638-meter) Salkantay Pass, and eventually reaching the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu.
Our Top Tips
- Spend several days in Cusco before the trek to acclimatize to the altitude.
- Book your trek and Machu Picchu entry permits well in advance.
- Bring layers to adapt to varying temperatures, from hot valleys to chilly high passes.
- Stay hydrated and consider using a water purification system for stream water.
- Sample local foods such as quinoa soup and coca tea, which can help with altitude sickness.
5. The Piuquenes Pass, Argentina and Chile
- Perfect for: Wine-loving history buffs with strong legs
- Duration: 6 days
- Difficulty Level: Challenging
- Closest Airport: Mendoza
The Piuquenes Pass trek follows the historic route used by General San Martin during his campaign to liberate Chile from Spanish rule.
This 37-mile (60-kilometer) trek crosses the Andes from Mendoza in Argentina to Santiago in Chile. The trail takes you through high mountain passes, verdant alpine valleys, and past glacial streams. The route offers spectacular views of Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Americas.
Our Top Tips
- Plan a visit to Mendoza’s renowned vineyards before or after your trek.
- Learn about the historical significance of the trail from knowledgeable guides.
- Prepare for sudden weather changes in the high Andes; bring warm layers and a good tent.
- Acclimatize properly to prevent altitude sickness, as the trek reaches heights over 13,000 feet (4,000 meters).
- Hiring a guide familiar with the terrain can enhance your experience and ensure safety.
6. The Avenue of Volcanoes Hike, Ecuador
- Perfect for: Aspiring mountaineers
- Duration: 7 days
- Difficulty Level: Tough
- Closest Airport: Quito
The Avenue of Volcanoes is a term coined by German explorer Alexander von Humboldt, referring to the chain of volcanoes stretching through Ecuador’s central highlands.
This 7-day trek typically includes ascents of some of the country’s highest volcanoes, such as Cayambe (18,996 feet) and Cotopaxi (19,347 feet).
The route offers a challenging mix of high-altitude hiking, glacier travel, and climbing.
Our Top Tips
- Ensure you have the necessary permits for climbing the major peaks.
- Gradually acclimatize by including lower-altitude hikes before attempting the higher summits.
- Use specialized mountaineering gear, including crampons and ice axes.
- Consider hiring certified mountain guides for safe navigation on glaciers.
- Be prepared for extreme weather conditions, including cold temperatures and strong winds.
7. The W Trek and Bader Valley Extension, Torres del Paine, Chile
- Perfect for: Iconic scenery and valley scrambling
- Duration: 3-5 days
- Difficulty Level: Challenging
- Closest Airport: Puerto Natales
The W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park is one of the most famous treks in the world, known for its dramatic landscapes featuring jagged peaks, glaciers, and turquoise lakes.
The standard W Trek takes 4-5 days, but adding an extension to the Bader Valley offers a more secluded experience. The Bader Valley provides unique views of the park’s less visited areas and challenging off-trail scrambling.
Our Top Tips
- Campsites and refugios (mountain lodges) fill up quickly; book well in advance.
- Torres del Paine is notorious for unpredictable weather; pack for all conditions.
- Trail markers can be sparse in the Bader Valley; consider bringing a GPS or detailed map.
- Keep an eye out for guanacos, condors, and the elusive puma.
- Water sources are plentiful and generally safe to drink from streams; bring a refillable bottle.
8. The Quilotoa Loop, Ecuador
- Perfect for: Indigenous culture and crater lakes
- Duration: 2-3 days
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Closest Airport: Quito
The Quilotoa Loop is a multi-day hike through the central highlands of Ecuador, renowned for its stunning Andean landscapes and rich indigenous culture.
The route covers approximately 20 miles (32 kilometers) from the town of Sigchos to the Quilotoa Crater Lake, a breathtaking volcanic lake with striking turquoise waters.
The trek passes through several highland villages, offering opportunities to interact with local communities and stay in traditional lodges.
Our Top Tips
- Stay in local guesthouses for an immersive cultural experience.
- Engage with the Kichwa-speaking communities and learn about their traditions.
- Be prepared for cold nights at high altitudes; pack warm clothing.
- The trek reaches elevations over 12,000 feet (3,658 meters); acclimatize properly.
- Don’t miss the sunrise or sunset views over Quilotoa Lake for stunning photo opportunities.
9. The Huayhuash Circuit, Peru
- Perfect for: Breathtaking Andean vistas
- Duration: 10-14 days
- Difficulty Level: Tough
- Closest Airport: Huaraz
The Huayhuash Circuit is considered one of the most beautiful treks in the world, encompassing about 81 miles (130 kilometers) through the Cordillera Huayhuash mountain range.
This trek is challenging, with several high passes over 16,000 feet (4,877 meters) and remote, rugged terrain.
The route offers awe-inspiring views of glaciated peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and diverse wildlife.
Our Top Tips
- Hiring local guides and porters can greatly enhance the experience and support the local economy.
- Spend time acclimatizing in Huaraz before starting the trek.
- Stock up on high-calorie food and snacks in Huaraz, as resupply points are limited.
- Use a reliable water purification system, as natural water sources are plentiful but untreated.
- Be prepared for a wide range of weather conditions, including snow at higher elevations.
10. The Condoriri Trek, Bolivia
- Perfect for: Condor spotting and high passes
- Duration: 3-5 days
- Difficulty Level: Challenging
- Closest Airport: La Paz
The Condoriri Trek is a high-altitude adventure through Bolivia’s Cordillera Real, named after the Condoriri massif, which resembles a condor with outstretched wings.
The trek covers approximately 25 miles (40 kilometres) and includes passes over 16,000 feet (4,877 meters), pristine glacial lakes, and the chance to see condors soaring overhead.
The trek offers dramatic mountain scenery and relatively untouched landscapes.
Our Top Tips
- Proper acclimatization in La Paz is crucial to avoid altitude sickness.
- Trail markers can be scarce; consider hiring a guide and use a GPS.
- Prepare for cold nights; bring a four-season tent and a warm sleeping bag. Check out our guides on sleeping bag temperature ratings and how to choose a camping tent to help you out.
- Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to spot condors.
- Respect local customs and traditions, especially when passing through indigenous villages.
11. The Chapada Diamantina Trek, Brazil
- Perfect for: Chasing waterfalls
- Duration: 3-5 days
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Closest Airport: Salvador
The Chapada Diamantina trek is a journey through one of Brazil’s most stunning national parks.
The region is known for its dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests. The trek covers diverse terrain, from flat-topped mountains to deep valleys, and offers multiple trails, such as the Vale do Pati, known for its breathtaking scenery and remote, untouched beauty.
Staying in local homestays enhances the experience by providing a glimpse into the local culture and hospitality.
Our Top Tips
- Hiring a local guide is recommended for navigating the trails and learning about the region’s flora and fauna.
- Book your stays in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability in the charming homestays.
- Don’t miss the Cachoeira da Fumaça, one of the highest waterfalls in Brazil.
- Bring sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes and a swimsuit for the numerous natural pools.
- Prepare for variable weather, from hot days to cool nights in the higher altitudes.
12. Santa Cruz Trek, Peru
- Perfect for: An introduction to high-altitude trekking
- Duration: 3-4 days
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Closest Airport: Huaraz
The Santa Cruz Trek in the Cordillera Blanca offers a manageable yet stunning introduction to high-altitude trekking.
The 31-mile (50-kilometer) route takes you through diverse landscapes, including lush valleys, sparkling glacial lakes, and high mountain passes.
The trek is accessible and popular among hikers due to its relative ease and breathtaking scenery, such as the views of Alpamayo and Huascarán peaks.
Our Top Tips
- Spend time acclimatizing in Huaraz before starting the trek.
- Consider hiring a guide and porter to enhance your experience and support the local economy.
- Bring good quality camping gear as nights can be very cold.
- Purify water from streams and lakes, which are plentiful along the trail.
- The views at Punta Union Pass, the highest point at 15,580 feet (4,750 meters), are spectacular for photography.
13. Huayna Potosi Ascent, Bolivia
- Perfect for: Aspiring alpinists
- Duration: 3 days
- Difficulty Level: Tough
- Closest Airport: La Paz
The Huayna Potosi Ascent is a popular climb for those looking to summit a 6,088-meter peak without requiring extensive technical mountaineering skills.
The ascent includes glacier travel and a challenging summit push, with the final climb being steep and demanding. The journey offers stunning views of the Cordillera Real and the chance to practice ice-climbing skills.
Our Top Tips
- Participate in a pre-climb ice climbing training session to get comfortable with the equipment.
- Hire an experienced guide for a safer and more informed ascent.
- Spend several days in La Paz or on lower-altitude hikes to acclimatize.
- Use high-quality mountaineering gear, including crampons, ice axes, and warm clothing.
- Start the summit push early (around midnight) to reach the top at sunrise for the best conditions and views.
14. La Junta Trail, Chile
- Perfect for: Quiet trails and unspoilt scenery
- Duration: 6 hours
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Closest Airport: Puerto Montt
The La Junta Trail in Chile’s Cochamó Valley is known for its majestic granite walls and old-growth forests, often compared to Yosemite Valley in the United States.
This moderate hike takes you through temperate rainforests, along scenic rivers, and offers opportunities for rock climbing and camping.
Our Top Tips
- Start early to enjoy the trail before it gets busy and to maximize daylight hours.
- Consider camping at La Junta to fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings.
- Bring climbing gear if you plan to tackle some of the renowned granite walls.
- Prepare for rain, as the area is known for its wet climate.
- Look out for the diverse bird species and other wildlife in the lush forest.
15. The Mirador del Valle Trail, Chile
- Perfect for: Mountain views
- Duration: 5-6 hours
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Closest Airport: Bariloche
The Mirador del Valle Trail in Chile’s Lake District offers a moderately challenging hike through ancient forests leading to a panoramic viewpoint.
The trail provides stunning views of the surrounding glaciers and Andean peaks, making it a perfect day hike for nature lovers.
Our Top Tips
- Best hiked in late spring through early autumn for clearer weather and views.
- Bring trekking poles to help with the ascent and descent.
- The viewpoint offers excellent photography opportunities, especially at sunrise or sunset.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at the top while soaking in the views.
- In spring, the trail is lined with beautiful wildflowers, enhancing the scenic beauty.
16. Sierra Negra Volcano Hike, Galapagos Islands
- Perfect for: Lava lovers
- Duration: 6-7 hours
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Closest Airport: Baltra
The Sierra Negra Volcano Hike on Isabela Island in the Galapagos offers an opportunity to explore one of the world’s largest volcanic calderas.
The hike takes you across rugged lava fields and offers panoramic views of the caldera and surrounding islands. Continuing to the Lava Nueva area provides a unique experience of walking on recent lava flows.
Our Top Tips
- Mandatory guided tours offer valuable insights into the volcanic activity and unique ecosystem.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots suitable for walking on rough lava terrain.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as the hike can be hot and exposed.
- Keep an eye out for unique Galapagos wildlife, including finches and giant tortoises.
- The equatorial sun is strong; use sunblock, wear a hat, and bring sunglasses.
17. O Circuit, Torres del Paine, Chile
- Perfect for: Epic adventures
- Duration: 7-9 days
- Difficulty Level: Challenging
- Closest Airport: Punta Arenas
The O Circuit in Torres del Paine is an extended trek that encircles the park’s massif, covering about 80 miles (129 kilometres).
This trek includes the famous W route and ventures into the park’s remote and less-travelled areas, providing an immersive experience of its rugged beauty, diverse ecosystems, and dramatic landscapes.
Our Top Tips
- Secure your permits and reservations for campsites and refugios well in advance.
- Plan and pack all necessary food, as resupply options are limited.
- Be prepared for all weather conditions, including strong winds, rain, and snow.
- Use a detailed map and consider carrying a GPS for remote sections.
- Look out for wildlife such as guanacos, foxes, and the Andean condor.
18. Cordillera Huaytapallana Trek, Peru
- Perfect for: High altitude hiking
- Duration: 3-4 days
- Difficulty Level: Tough
- Closest Airport: Huancayo
The Cordillera Huaytapallana Trek offers a high-altitude adventure through one of Peru’s less-visited mountain ranges. This trek features dramatic peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, and a sense of solitude.
The route is challenging, with several passes over 15,000 feet (4,572 meters).
Our Top Tips
- Spend time acclimatizing in Huancayo before starting the trek.
- Hiring a guide is recommended for navigation and safety in this remote area.
- Be prepared for cold, high-altitude camping with appropriate gear.
- Use a water purification system for the natural water sources along the trail.
- Engage with the few local communities you encounter for cultural insights.
19. Sierra Nevada National Park Trek, Venezuela
- Perfect for: Nature lovers
- Duration: 3-5 days
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Closest Airport: Mérida
The Sierra Nevada National Park in Venezuela offers a trek through lush forests and high peaks, providing a diverse hiking experience.
The trek includes visits to picturesque lakes, and remote villages, and offers a chance to see Venezuela’s unique flora and fauna.
Our Top Tips
- Local guides can provide valuable knowledge about the region’s biodiversity and history.
- Ensure you check current travel advisories and local conditions before planning your trip.
- Prepare for a range of weather conditions, from warm valleys to chilly highlands.
- Stay in mountain refuges or camp to fully experience the park’s natural beauty.
- Bring binoculars for bird watching, as the park is home to many endemic species.
20. Ausangate Trek, Peru
- Perfect for: Scenic beauty and solitude
- Duration: 5-6 days
- Difficulty Level: Challenging
- Closest Airport: Cusco
The Ausangate Trek is a remote and stunning hike around the sacred Ausangate Mountain. The trail offers rainbow-coloured landscapes, hot springs, and high mountain passes.
The trek is known for its solitude, providing a peaceful experience away from the crowds.
Our Top Tips
- Obtain necessary permits in Cusco before starting the trek.
- Consider hiring guides and pack horses to assist with carrying gear.
- Be prepared for variable weather, including cold nights and potential snow.
- Spend time in Cusco or the Sacred Valley to acclimatize.
- The colourful landscapes are perfect for photography, so bring a good camera.
21. Colca Canyon Trek, Peru
- Perfect for: Canyon enthusiasts
- Duration: 2-3 days
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Closest Airport: Arequipa
The Colca Canyon Trek descends into one of the world’s deepest canyons, offering stunning scenery and cultural experiences.
The trek includes visits to traditional villages, terraced agriculture, and the opportunity to spot condors soaring above.
Our Top Tips
- Start early to avoid the midday heat when descending into the canyon.
- Local guides can enrich the experience with insights into the area’s history and culture.
- Stay in local lodges or campsites in the canyon for an immersive experience.
- Carry enough water, as sources can be scarce on the descent.
- Early mornings are best for spotting condors at the Cruz del Condor viewpoint.
22. Laguna 69 Hike, Peru
- Perfect for: Day hikes and stunning lakes
- Duration: 1 day
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Closest Airport: Huaraz
The Laguna 69 Hike is a popular day hike to a stunning turquoise glacial lake in the Cordillera Blanca. The 9-mile (14-kilometer) round-trip trail offers breathtaking views of surrounding peaks and pristine alpine scenery.
Despite its relatively short distance, the high altitude makes it challenging.
Our Top Tips
- Begin early to avoid crowds and enjoy the morning light on the lake.
- Spend a few days in Huaraz to acclimatize before attempting the hike.
- Bring plenty of water, snacks, and layers for changing weather conditions.
- The lake is incredibly photogenic; bring a good camera to capture its beauty.
- Arrange transport from Huaraz to the trailhead in advance.
23. Mount Roraima Trek, Venezuela
- Perfect for: Sci-fi landscapes
- Duration: 6-8 days
- Difficulty Level: Challenging
- Closest Airport: Boa Vista
The Mount Roraima Trek takes you to the summit of one of the world’s most unique flat-topped mountains.
The trek covers diverse ecosystems, from tropical forests to the otherworldly summit plateau, known for its surreal rock formations and endemic flora and fauna.
Our Top Tips
- Mandatory guides provide essential navigation and safety support.
- Obtain necessary permits and arrange logistics well in advance.
- Prepare for rain and cold temperatures on the summit.
- Bring sturdy hiking boots and camping gear suitable for wet conditions.
- Explore the unique ecosystems on the summit plateau, home to species found nowhere else.
24. El Choro Trek, Bolivia
- Perfect for: Historic trails
- Duration: 3-4 days
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Closest Airport: La Paz
The El Choro Trek follows an ancient Inca trail from the high mountains to the tropical valleys of Bolivia.
The 34-mile (55-kilometer) trek offers varied scenery, from snow-capped peaks to lush cloud forests, and passes through several historical and archaeological sites.
Our Top Tips
- Consider hiring a guide for insights into the trail’s history and cultural significance.
- Spend time acclimatizing in La Paz before starting the trek.
- Pack layers for the changing climate, from cold high altitudes to warm, humid valleys.
- Use a water purification system for the abundant natural water sources.
- Take time to explore the Inca ruins and historical markers along the trail.
25. Futaleufú River Valley Hike, Chile
- Perfect for: River views and adventure sports
- Duration: 2-3 days
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Closest Airport: Esquel
The Futaleufú River Valley Hike offers a combination of scenic hiking and adventure sports in one of Chile’s most beautiful river valleys.
Known for its turquoise waters, the region is popular for hiking, rafting, and kayaking. The trek takes you through lush forests and along the dramatic river gorge.
Our Top Tips
- Combine the hike with rafting or kayaking for a full adventure experience.
- Local guides can enhance your safety and enjoyment, especially for river activities.
- Stay in local lodges or campsites along the river for a rustic experience.
- Best visited in the summer months for optimal weather conditions.
- Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including Andean condors and huemul deer.
Conclusion
Hiking in South America is incredible. No matter what region or country you visit, you’ll have plenty of amazing hiking trails available. The trails above are our choices for the best hiking in South America, but this continent has so much more to offer for keen hikers.
Our advice? Get out there are start exploring. Once you experience the unique mountains and landscapes of South America, you’ll be hooked on this hiking paradise.
Want to venture further after your South American hiking trip? Check out the best hikes in Guatemala.