A backdrop of intense colors, dramatic landscapes, and unique wildlife, nothing embodies the spirit of adventure like South America. One of the most striking ways to explore the continent’s untamed beauty is on foot. So, we bring you an exhaustive guide to unforgettable hiking trips in South America.
Table of Contents
- The Inca Trail, Peru:
- Torres del Paine W Trek, Chile:
- Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina:
- Ciudad Perdida, Colombia:
- Chapada Diamantina, Brazil:
- Roraima Trek, Venezuela
- The Quilotoa Loop, Ecuador
The Inca Trail, Peru:
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu holds an iconic status among hiking enthusiasts. You’ll traverse through sub-tropical Andean mountain environments, lush cloud forests, and ancient Incan ruins. The 26-mile trail takes about 4 days to complete. The climax is the sun peeking over the lost city of Machu Picchu, a rewarding culmination to the arduous trek. Don’t forget to book your trek well in advance as the trail has entry restrictions.
Torres del Paine W Trek, Chile:
Chile’s prized jewel in Patagonia, the W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park offers stunning views of glaciers, crystal-clear waterfalls, and the distinct granite towers. The 50-mile trek takes roughly 4-7 days, weaving through golden pampas, glacial lakes, and towering mountains. Look out for wild Guanacos and the elusive Andean Puma.
Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina:
Home to the impressive Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre, the Los Glaciares National Park offers a variety of trails for all skills levels. The 40-mile loop around Mount Fitz Roy is the most popular, taking around 3 to 4 days to complete. Hikers can marvel at the breathtaking views of turquoise lakes, hanging glaciers, and the striking spires of Fitz Roy during the sunrise — a spectacle worth the trek.
Ciudad Perdida, Colombia:
The Lost City trek in Colombia is like stepping back into history. Believed to be over 650 years older than Machu Picchu, this mystical city was discovered in 1972. An intense 27-mile hike through the dense Colombian jungle will take you to the hallowed ruins. It’s a 4-6 day long journey complete with river crossings, steep ascents and astonishing biodiversity.
Chapada Diamantina, Brazil:
Chapada Diamantina National Park is known for cavernous valleys, towering waterfalls, and quartzite caves filled with crystal-clear water. The Pati Valley trail is the highlight, offering a challenging hike with a mix of terrains. The 3-5 day trail covers around 15 to 18 miles with daily ascents and descents, rewarding the hiker with panoramic vistas and freshwater caves perfect for a swim.
Roraima Trek, Venezuela
The Roraima Trek is a journey to one of the oldest geological formations on earth: Mount Roraima. This six-day trek is about 31 miles long, involving steep jungle paths, endemic plant species, waterfalls, and a surrealistic, otherworldly landscape at the top. The dramatic variety of flora and fauna here adds to the appeal.
The Quilotoa Loop, Ecuador
The Quilotoa Loop in the Ecuadorian Andes is a 3-day, 21-mile trek. The trail takes you through remote Andean villages, rugged landscapes, and culminates in a view of the stunning Quilotoa Crater Lake – an emerald green water-filled caldera. More than the physical exertion, the real challenges here are the altitude and unpredictable weather, bringing its own sense of exhilaration.
Each trail offers unique vistas and diverse experiences and carries its own set of challenges. Remember to prepare accordingly, both physically and mentally, and keep all essentials handy. Get your hiking boots on and set off on these unforgettable hiking trails in South America because steady attractions are one thing, but immersive experiences are another.
In summary, South America offers landscapes for every hiking enthusiast. From Andean peaks to Patagonian glaciers, jungle treks to coastal routes filled with a rich tapestry of cultures, history and biodiversity. So, pack your bags, lace up your boots, and let South America’s trails be your guide to its most stunning and off-the-beaten-path vistas.