The 50 Best Hiking Trails in South America

South America is a hiker’s paradise, with an endless supply of excellent trails to explore. There are trails from the Andes to the Amazon to suit everyone’s dream adventure. So whether you’re looking for a challenging multi-day trek or a gentle day hike, you’ll find it here.

This article has curated a list of the 50 best hiking trails in South America. We’ve included a mix of easy, moderate, and challenging trails, so there’s something for everyone.

1. The Most Famous Hiking Trail, the Inca Trail- Peru

• Peru

The Inca Trail is a world-renowned hiking route that leads to the lost city of Machu Picchu. It runs through some of the most exceptional scenery in Peru, from verdant jungle to high-altitude mountain passes.

You’ll enjoy the classic Inca Trail for four days/ 3 nights, which is 42 km long. Along the trail, you’ll enjoy the view of one of the world’s longest mountain ranges, the Peruvian Andes.

The hike is not easy, but those who make it are rewarded with incredible views and a sense of accomplishment. In addition, the Inca Trail is an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.

The Inca trail is only open to hikers, with permits obtained in advance.

2. Looking for a Challenging but Rewarding Trail? Try Salkantay Trek

• Cusco Region, Peru

If you cannot take the Inca Trail for some reason, don’t fret. Salkantay Trek is one of the best Inca alternatives, although it’s not crowded. In addition, you’ll pass the Aguas Calientes, a town known for thermal baths near the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu.

In addition, you’ll enjoy the stunning views of the snow-capped Andes Mountains and the Amazon rainforest. The Salkantay Trek is 4,600 miles and has a maximum elevation of 4,600 meters. It will take five days to reach Machu Picchu, walking for up to eight hours daily.

The trek is challenging since it’s rugged and remote, but the spectacular scenery will take your breath away, giving you an unforgettable experience.

3. Enjoy the Best Alpine Trek on the Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit

• Peru

The Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit is known for its harsh hiking conditions and stunning views of the Huayhuash mountain range. It’s one of the most famous multi-day hiking trails in South America.

You’ll love the trail’s stunning scenery of turquoise lakes, natural settings, hot springs, and snow-capped mountain peaks, to name just a few things. However, this trail is not for everyone, meaning you’ll need to be fit enough to face the challenge.

Brace yourself for a long distance, high altitudes, and several mountain passes, which may take 12 days.

4. The best trail in the Cordillera Blanca Is the Santa Cruz

• Peru 

The Santa Cruz Trek is a challenging 3-4 day trail that takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in Peru. It lies in the white-peaked Cordillera Blanca range in Peruvian Andes. The trailhead of the Santa Cruz Trek is the mountain City of Huaraz.

It is 50 km long with a maximum altitude of 4,760 min. Punta Union. Although the trek is considered of moderate difficulty, one-day acclimatization is essential. The time for an excellent Santa Cruz Trek is May – September, Peru’s dry season.

During this time, you will enjoy sunny days; however, it’s good to note that the night temperature can go below 0 °C.

5. Add Some Color to Your Life by Hiking on the Ausangate Trek, Peru

If you’re looking for a more satisfying and mesmerizing hike, then Ausangate Trek is what you might be looking for. The 5-7 days trek is challenging and needs a high fitness level. In addition, the hike has a maximum altitude of over 5,000 m which can cause some sickness.

However, the crowning accomplishment will be the magnificent, breathtaking views of glaciers, snow peaks, stunning mountain lakes, and the colorful Rainbow mountain. The good thing is that Ausangate Trek is not crowded like the Inca Trail or Santa Cruz Trek.

6. The Blue-Colored Glacial Laguna 69

• Huaraz / Áncash / Peru

Laguna 69 is the most amazing blue-colored glacial lagoon in South America. The Laguna 69 trail is located near Huaraz, Peru, and is considered a moderately challenging trek.

You’ll need a permit to enter this park. The Laguna 69 trail is around 13 km and can take an average of 7 to 10 hours. This trail has a high point of 4,550m. Enjoy the beautiful breathtaking blue glacial lagoons, mountains, waterfalls, and grazing wildlife.

7. Enjoy the View of One of the Deepest Gorges, Colca Canyon

• Chivay, Peru

Colca Canyon is among the top best-hiking destinations in Peru. It’s also one of the deepest canyons in the world, with a depth of around 3,400m. It is located in the Andes Mountains and is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the country.

The Colca Canyon trail is not overly strenuous, but it is important to be prepared for a challenging climb from the gorge. The hike can vary, but it takes 2-3 days to explore this side of Peru.

The trek starts at the lush valley town of Chivay or Arequipa. Enjoy fascinating views of the Andean valley, hot springs, lush vegetation, massive condors, and many wonders nature offers.

8. Get an Incredible Bird’s Eye View from Machu Picchu Mountain

• Aguas Calientes, Peru

Machu Picchu Mountain is located near the Inca City of Machu Picchu. If you’re looking for a trail that is never crowded, the Machu Picchu Mountain hike is a great choice.

The Machu Picchu Mountain trail is rugged but not steep like the Huayna Picchu. This trail has Inca stonework and narrow steps that you use to climb. The hike can take 2 to 4 hours out and back.

Get panoramic views of Huayna Picchu Mountain, Machu Picchu Citadel, beautiful landscapes, and the Urubamba River.

9. The Huayna Picchu: Stairs of Death

• Calle Huayna Picchu, Peru

The Huayna Picchu mountain is one of Peru’s most popular attractions in the Cusco region. Situated near the ancient city of Machu Picchu, the Huayna Picchu mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

However, the hike is not for the faint of heart, as the Huayna Picchu trail is quite steep and strenuous. The route is around 45 minutes to 1 hour, with a starting altitude of 2,430m and a 2,693 m maximum altitude.

You will use the “stairs of death,” the Inca stone steps that lead to the top of the mountain. The best time to take the Huayna Picchu trail is May-September. This is the driest season when the steps are not sloppy, and the mountains will be mostly clear.

Brazil

10. Enjoy the Beautiful Savannahs, and Magnificent Waterfalls in Vale Do Pati, Brazil

• State of Bahia, Brazil

Vale do Pati is among the best stunning trails in Chapada de Diamantina National Park, Brazil. The 5-7 days hike will offer fantastic scenery of beautiful mountains, spectacular waterfalls, and magnificent landscapes. Furthermore, you’ll enjoy views of gorgeously blue lagoons and caves.

The Vale de Pati is about 37 miles long and is considered not to be a difficult trail. Although there is no mobile phone signal, you won’t even notice because of the tranquility and hospitality of the natives.

11. Get the Most Amazing Views of Rio De Janeiro From the Two Brothers Hill

• R. Regina de Carvalho – Vidigal, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, Brazil

The Two Brothers Hill (Dois irmãos hill) hike is among the best treks if you’re looking for an easy and short trail. The trek is short ( about 3 hours), starting from Vidigal Favela. You will get a beautiful view of Rio De Janeiro from the top.

You can also see the top of the mountain’s largest favela in Brazil, Rocinha. Furthermore, the scenic view of Ipanema or Leblon beach is breathtaking. Also, ensure to view the magnificent sunrise on the hill.

12. Take a Hike on Ilha Grande, a Hotspot for Biodiversity

• Angra dos Reis – State of Rio de Janeiro, 23968-000, Brazil

Ilha Grande is an island located on the coast of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It’s a popular tourist destination for its beaches, jungle, and relaxed atmosphere.

You can explore the island’s scenic beauty, beaches, and rugged landscape in a 5-7 days trek. The island has a network of trails, where all are near the ocean. Ilha Grande island is almost blanketed in the Atlantic Rainforest, making it one of the richest ecosystems in South America.

The Flora and fauna of Ilha Grande island will blow your mind. To make it a more memorable hike, ensure you take a dip in the Feiticeira waterfall.

13. The Most Difficult Trek in Brazil Is the Serra Fina Crossing

• Queluz – State of São Paulo, 12800-000, Brazil

The Serra Fina Crossing trail is one of the most challenging hikes in Brazil. This trek takes five days to complete.

The Serra Fina Crossing Trek is a challenging but rewarding hike that takes you through some of the most phenomenal scenery in South America. Trekking starts and ends in Rio de Janeiro.

The trek takes you through the Serra Fina mountain range, home to towering peaks, pristine forests, and cascading waterfalls. You will enjoy Capim Amarelo Peak, Pedra da Mina Peak, and the Three States Peak.

The trek is not easy. However, the stunning views of everything surrounding this place and a sense of accomplishment will last forever.

14. Enjoy Excellent Panoramic Views From Mount Roraima

•  Venezuela/Brazil/Guyana

Mount Roraima is one of the largest flat-topped mountains at the junction of Venezuela, Brazil, and Guyana. The starting point for the Mount Roraima trail is the hamlet of Paraitepui. The route is 52 km long, and the highest point is Maverick Rock, 2810 meters.

Trekking to the top of Mount Roraima is no joke. It’s a physically and mentally challenging feat it takes seven days to complete. However, the gorgeous views from the summit are worth it. And, hey, you can say you conquered one of the world’s tallest tepuis. That’s bragging rights for life.

15. Visit the World’s Tallest Uninterrupted Waterfall, Angels Fall

• Bolívar, Venezuela

The Angels Falls is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Bolivar, Venezuela. It has a height of 979 meters and a plunge of 807m, making it the world’s tallest uninterrupted waterfall. The waterfall pours over the cliff of the Auyán-tepui mountain in the Canaima National Park.

The Angels Fall trail is only accessible via a boat ride, and you can easily make the arrangements in Canaima. Once on the trail, you’ll trek up the hill. As you near the viewpoint, the trail becomes steeper.

You will have a spectacular view of the Canaima National Park, sighting tropical wildlife here and there. However, the highlight of the trek is the awe-inspiring vista of Angels Falls.

16. A Simple Hike on the Sabas Nieves II Trail

• Distrito Capital, Venezuela

The Saba Nieves trail is located near Chacao, Miranda, Venezuela. It’s among the most accessible and popular trails in Miranda state. The trek is 2 miles (3.2km) out and back; you can take around 1-2 hours, depending on your fitness level.

Enjoy fresh water from a fountain on the mountain and the fresh air from the surrounding trees. Climb the raise using tree roots on your way to No te Apures shelter. This trail lets you escape the hustles and bustles of the city for a few hours to enjoy nature.

Argentina

17. Laguna Torre Hike Offers a Valley Trek Towards a Beautiful View of Cerro Torre

• Santa Cruz Province, Argentina

The Laguna Torre is among the best hiking trails in South America in El Chalten, Argentina. The trek is 18 km (two-way) long and has an elevation of 250 meters at the beginning of the trail.

The trek is considered most accessible by hiking enthusiasts, but it can be of medium difficulty for someone starting. You’ll enjoy the spectacular view of Cerro Torre on a clear day. The Laguna Torre lake is in the Los Glaciares National Park and has a stunning glacier.

18. The Rocky Angles, Height, and Silhouette of Mount Fitz Roy Are Spellbinding.

• Patagonia, Argentina—Chile border

Monte Fitz Roy is located near El Chalten and Viedma lake on the Argentina and Chile border. Fitz Roy is a part of the Andean mountains and is nestled in the Los Glaciares National Park.

This mountain’s peak is considered to be challenging for climbers. The Monte Fitz Roy trail is about 21 kilometers, and you’ll need like 7-9 hours. However, it’s hard to climb the mountain, but with pleasant weather, it offers a magnificent view to last a lifetime.

You will need lots of luck to have a clear and complete view of the surroundings since the weather there is unpredictable. The best time to hike on Mount Fitzroy is October to March. However, for a more thrilling experience, you can take a 2-day hike to the Laguna de Los tres, Cerro Torre, and the Fitz Roy mountain.

19. Enjoy the Outstanding Views of Mounts Constitución During Your Paso De Las Nubes Hike

• Río Negro, Argentina

Enjoy a 2- day trek of about 23 km and discover the wonder and beauty of Patagonia by using the Paso de las Nubes trail. The trail can begin from Pampa Linda to Frias Lake and Puerto Blest, or you can start from the opposite direction.

You will enjoy the spectacular views of the glacier landscape from Mount Tronador and the Cerro Constitución. In addition, you’ll be amazed by the green valley and waterfall. The Flora, fauna, and scenic view of Frias River are a sight to behold. You’ll spend the night at the Agostino Rocca Hut.

20. Have the Most Scenic Views of Argentina on the Refugio Frey Trail

• Río Negro, Argentina

The Refugio Frey trail is among the best hikes in Bariloche. Located in the Nahuel Huapi National Park, this is one of the most accessible trails suitable for hikers of all levels.

You can choose to finish the trek in a day. You can also decide to camp or spend the night at the Refugio Frey to enjoy more time in this amazing environment.

If you decide on a day hike, it will take you like 4 hours one way. However, you’ll enjoy excellent lake and mountain peak views. In addition, you’ll enjoy nature at its best by smelling the fresh scent of trees from the tremendous old forest. The best time to use this trail is October to April, although the route might be crowded.

21. The Magnificent View of One of the Biggest Glaciers, Perito Moreno Glacier

• Santa Cruz Province, Argentina

If you’re looking for the world’s top wonders, then hike on the Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina. Located in the Los Glaciares National Park, this glacier is considered one of the biggest glaciers in the world. The trek is about 4.7 km and takes around 1 hour 30 mins to 2 hours, the start point being El Calafate.The Perito Moreno Glacier trail is moderately difficult and needs a good fitness level. Brave yourself for some snowy walks depending on the weather, which is excellent if you have the right gear.

The weather in Patagonia is unpredictable, but the best time to visit the glacier is November to March.

22. Cerro Tronador Offers a Gorgeous View of Glaciers

• Puerto Varas, Los Lagos, Chile

The Cerro Tronador has black ice at its base from the Manso glacier and is known for the sound of falling seracs, hence its name. The Cerro Tronador trail is easy, around 36 km, out and back. It takes two days, one night where you spend the night camping or in a Refugio.

On this trail, you’ll enjoy the scenic view of the snow-capped Andes Mountain range and emerald blue lakes. Furthermore, you’ll have plenty of other places to enjoy fantastic views, including the magnificent sunset on the Cerro Tronador.

23. Huemul Circuit Offers a Scenic View of the Southern Patagonia Ice Field

• Santa Cruz Province, Argentina

Huemul Circuit, El Chalten, is a challenging trek with excellent views of iceberg-laden, ancient forests, glacial lakes, and rocky moraines. The icing on the cake of this hike is the magnificent view of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field.

The Huemul Circuit is about 40 miles and is located in Los Glaciares National Park. It can take you about 4 to 5 days to complete the trek. Brave yourself for a knee-high river crossing trek, high wind speed, unmarked trails, and ascending to high points.

24. Enjoy Beautiful Views of the Mountains on the Bariloche Hut to Hut Hike

• Río Negro, Argentina

Bariloche is a hiking paradise. If you’re an experienced hiker, Bariloche Hut to Hut trail is yours for exploring. The route is a 100 km long, 5-day trek with Bariloche being the starting point.

Transverse the Van Titter creek to Frey hut, then through deep mountains, down valleys across rivers to Jacob Refugio. Finally, climb to Pico Refugio towards Laguna Negra Hut to Cerro Lopez, where you will enjoy nothing but spectacular views.

25. The Fascinating Rainbow Valley in Quebrada De Humahuaca

• Humahuaca, Jujuy, Argentina

Enjoy a trail to the mountains of Quebrada de Humahuaca, Argentina, the UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll see waves of colors and a range of shapes on these mountains. The incredible sight of green, pink, red, purple, and blue is a mystical charm you won’t forget soon.

The Quebrada de Humahuaca is about 3000 m above sea level. Besides its spectacular view, you’ll enjoy plenty of beautiful scenes from surrounding towns and villages. For a picturesque backdrop, visit the place from around December to June.

26. Have the Best Views on the Quilotoa Loop

• Ecuador

The Quilotoa Loop is a popular multi-day hiking route in Ecuador that takes you through some of the country’s most stunning scenery . It’s a 3-5 day hike that starts and ends in the City of Latacunga. The entire loop consists of Andean trails of about 200 km. However, the trail from Latacunga-Sigchos-Isinilivi-Chugchilan-Quoitoa and Latacunga is approximately 30-40 km.

This trail is difficult, especially the climb to the highest point of the final part of the hike. Being the lowest town, Isilinivi has an altitude of 2,800m, while the maximum high point of the hike is 3,915m.

The Quilotoa Loop offers breathtaking views of rivers, high mountains, grassy landscapes, valleys, and volcano alleys. The highlight of the trek is the Quilotoa Crater Lake.

27. The Cotopaxi Volcano Trail Takes You to the Second Highest Summit in Ecuador

• Volcán Cotopaxi, Latacunga, Cotopaxi, Ecuador

The Cotopaxi Volcano trail takes you to the summit of one of the world’s highest active volcanoes. It’s in the Andes Mountains, Latacunga, Ecuador.

The maximum altitude is 5,897m and around 7.4 km. The hike lasts two days, starting at the country’s capital, Quito. The route is strenuous, but it’s worth the experience of a lifetime. You’ll enjoy the best panoramic views from the top, which are breathtaking.

28. No Dull Moments Trekking on the Laguna Cuicocha Trail

• Imbabura Province, Ecuador

The Laguna Cuicocha trail passes through the beautiful Ecuadorian Amazon. Laguna Cuicocha is a one-day hike, and the trail is considered moderately difficult. Completing the loop can take around 4 hours and 30 minutes.

If you are hike savvy, you can take the clockwise direction for some challenging inclines.

The lagoon has three small islands in the middle of the beautiful blue water. This trek is perfect for those who want to experience the raw beauty of the jungle and learn about this area’s indigenous culture.

29. Enjoy Nature in El Altar Trek

• Zúñac, Ecuador

The El Altar Trail takes you to the extinct volcano, The Altar, which is in Sangay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The trail is one of the most beautiful routes in Ecuador as it is surrounded by snowy mountains, glacial lakes, and soothing waterfalls.

The hike can take you three days crossing the park, with the highest point being El Altar at 5,300m. On this trek, you’ll enjoy the multicolored Lagunas, snow-capped mountains, tropical rainforest, and vast ecosystems of Ecuador.

30. Get the Best View of Condors and Pumas on the Condor Trail

• Ecuador

Condor trek is a 5-6 day hike that offers the sight of condors and pumas. In addition, It’s one of the best treks you can go on in Ecuador. The hike is about 51km with an elevation gain of 2,588 metres and a high point of 4,500 metres.

The trailhead is Eltambo and ends in Limpiopungo Lagoon, meaning you’ll enjoy the beautiful sceneries of the Cotopaxi National Park. Enjoy great views of the glaciers, lagoons, and wildlife such as horses and llamas grazing on the paramo.

31. Get to See Magnificent Mountains and Volcanoes on the Rucu Pichincha Trek

• Near Quito, Pichincha

The Rucu Pichincha hike offers you a phenomenal view of Quito. Rucu Pichincha is a stratovolcano at 4,784m altitude, making the hike challenging.

The trail is 10km out and back. Although the route is strenuous, you’ll enjoy the spectacular views of the mountains and surrounding volcanoes. If you’re lucky enough, you will even catch a glimpse of curiquingue, the Incas’ sacred bird.

32. Sierra Negra Volcano Hike

• Cascajo, Ecuador

The Sierra Negra Volcano trail is located in the Galápagos National Park, Puerto Villamil, Ecuador. It offers exceptional views of the surrounding mountains and wildlife like giant tortoises. The Sierra Negra Trail is relatively easy but prepare for some steepness at the start of the trek.

The trail to Volcano Chico is around 15 km (10 miles) out and back, taking about 4 to 6 hours to complete. You will walk along a landscape of lava flows and volcanic rocks.

33. The Flora and Fauna of Apolobamba II Is a Sight to Treasure

• Bolivia

The Apolobamba II trail takes you to the deepest parts of Bolivia, offering the most spectacular views. This hike takes seven days, the start and end point being La Paz.

The Apolobamba mountain range is located in the Northeast of La Paz. Many rivers that pour down from these mountains keep the Amazon going.

Enjoy the views of Lake Titicaca, valleys, ravines, and Andean plantations. You’ll also love the excellent view of the kallaways’ sacred mountain, Akamai Mount. Furthermore, you’ll get to camp near waterfalls and enjoy the fresh air of the wildflowers, among other Flora and fauna.

34. Huayna Potosi, the Hardest Trek in South America

• Milluni, Bolivia

Huayna Potosi is located near El Alto , Bolivia. It’s the most famous mountain to climb in Bolivia, offering exceptional views from the top.

Huayna Potosi trail is mainly made up of a 2-3 day challenging route. It’s 10km out and back, with a maximum high point of 6,088m. This trek is considered one of the hardest hiking trails in South America. Due to its technical nature, it’s advisable to have a guide on this hike.

35. Enjoy Glaciated Peaks on the Condoriri Trek

• La Paz – Bolivia, cordillera northwest of Mountain Huayna

The Condoriri trail is short if you decide on a one-day hike. But, if you want to explore La Paz fully, the hike can take 3 to 5 days. The start and end point is La Paz. You will enjoy this side of the Cordillera Real mountain range.

The best time for a Condoriri trek is April to October, but brace yourself for high attitudes. The hike offers stunning views of glacial lagoons, snowy mountains, and amazing landscapes. You might also catch a glimpse of Lake Titicaca. Furthermore, you can spot wildlife grazing like the LLama, allkamari, and donkeys.

36. The Most Popular Bolivian Hiking Trail, El Choro

• Rinconada, Bolivia

The El Choro Trail is a 3- day hike easily accessible from La Paz. Enjoy the trek’s incredible views, like the snow-peaked Andes Mountains, deep valleys, and the fantastic alpine outlook. On top of this, you’ll discover some history on this trek, including the ancient ruins.

The trek is around 110km out and back, starting from La Cumbre Pass. Ensure to go during good weather since some of the paths are slippery. The route passes through Challapampa, Sanfransisco to Coroico. Thanks to the fresh breeze and stunning sight of the Amazon jungle, you’ll be hooked the entire time.

37. Meet the Religious Mountain, Cerro El Calvario

• Copacabana, Bolivia

If you’re looking for an accessible and quick hike and are already in Copacabana, why not try Cerro El Calvario hill? The Cerro El Calvario trail is around 1.3 km out and back, taking approximately 30 to 40 minutes. Nevertheless, don’t let the short distance fool you; the climb is steep and can be strenuous.

The trek will offer an excellent view of Copacabana, beautiful lake Titicaca and the stunning island Isla del Sol. The hill provides a great spot to watch a spectacular sunset. In addition, there’s a church a few minutes’ walk from the hill.

Although there will likely be a lot of trash, especially at the top of the hill, nothing can beat the satisfaction you’ll get from this hike.

38. Hike Along an Old Inca Paved Trail on Your Takesi Trek

• Oquecucho, Bolivia

The Takesi Trail is an easy 2-3 days hike where you pass along ancient paved Inca trails. Transverse through mines, hilltops, and beautiful rivers. The trail starts from La Paz, San Francisco, Takesi, Kikapi, Chojlle Mine, and back to La Paz.

39. See Dinosaur Footprints on the Maragua Crater

• Sucre, Bolivia

Sucre, the official capital of Bolivia, offers the best attractions, including the Maragua Crater. The Maragua Crater trail takes 3-4 days, where you’ll enjoy nature, colored landscapes, and the Bolivian rural culture.

The trail passes by the ancient cave paintings and the Ninu Mayu dinosaur footprints.

40. Hope You Won’t Get Lost on the Lost City Trail

• Magdalena, Colombia

Lost City trek, also known as Ciudad Perdida by locals, is in Sierra Nevada de Santa, Columbia. The trek offers a unique adventure in Nevada where you can choose a 4-day, 5-day, or 6-day hike.

Lost City trek takes you through the Colombian jungle, exploring different ecosystems. You’ll also learn about the indigenous people who have lived there for centuries.

The trail is around 75km, and the terrain is considered challenging. Nevertheless, the trek has impressive views that will give you an endless adventure.

41. Great Views of the Sugarloaf Itself at Morro da Urca

•  Rio de Janeiro

Most residents trek up Morro da Urca rather than pay for a cable car journey up Sugarloaf Mountain. You can’t see the Sugarloaf from atop this 215-meter (705-foot) slope, but from a distance, you can take in breathtaking panoramas of neighboring Corcovado, Copacabana, Guanabara Bay, and the whole city below.

The hill is a prominent feature of one of the greatest concentrations of urban rock climbing routes in the world. The peak of the hill has a tourist center, snack booths, bathrooms, and a souvenir store, all of which may be reached by cable car. If you want to see the summit of Sugarloaf and the surrounding hills, you should visit on a day when the weather is clear and sunny.

42. Enjoy the Sight Granite Peaks at Laguna de Los Tres, Los Glaciares National Park

• Santa Cruz, Argentina

The path to Laguna de Los Tres, a glacial lagoon with emerald water, is dotted with natural wonders. You can see the granite peaks and maybe even some condors soaring above you as you climb (bring your binoculars). As you near the end of the trail’s ascent, you’ll be rewarded with views of the lagoon and the glaciers that cling to its surrounding mountains. Prioritize a visit to Laguna de Los Tres if you’re ever in the area.

43. A Family-Friendly Trail, El Morado Glacier

• San Jose de Maipo, Santiago Metropolitan Region, Chile

The El Morado Glacier trail is one of the easiest treks in Chile, as you can hike with children. You can take a one-day trek, but to enjoy every bit of this trail, a two-day hike would b an excellent choice.

The trek is around 8 km and starts from a small hamlet of Baños Morales. It takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, including glaciers, waterfalls, and lakes. The El Morado Glacier is the highlight of the trek, and you will be amazed by the size and beauty of this glacier.

44. Explore the North Coast, Easter Island

• Easter Island, Valparaíso, Chile

The North Coast trek is one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Easter Island. Unfortunately, you can only access this spectacular part of the island on foot or horseback since no roads are available. In addition, there is no marked trail; you only have to follow the coastline north.

This trek takes you along the island’s rugged north coast, where you’ll see amazing views of the ocean and the volcanic landscape. You’ll also enjoy archeological ruins, Moai, cattle, and horses grazing.

45. The Famous W Trek

• Torres Del Paine National Park, Patagonia

The W trek is the most popular in Torres del Paine National Park, Chile. The park has two popular trails, W Trek and O Trek. They are among the best and most famous hiking trails in South American trails. The W Trek takes its name from the shape of the route, which covers a large section of the park.

W trek can be done in three to five days, depending on your fitness level. The trek is from east to west, starting at Refugio Las Torres and ending at Refugio Paine Grande.

This trail takes you through the most scenic parts of the park, including the Valle Frances, Lake Gray, and the Torres del Paine massif. Along the way, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to see some of the park’s wildlife, including guanacos, rheas, and condors.

46. Enjoy a Fulfilling Hike on the O Trek, Patagonia

• Patagonia

The O Trek, or Full Circuit Patagonia, is one of the world’s most beautiful and challenging treks located in Torres del Paine National Park. The O circuit should be on every hiker’s bucket list. The trek is an126 km loop that takes eight days to complete, but you will wish it never ends.

O Circuit takes hikers through some of the most stunning landscapes on the planet, including forests, mountains, glaciers, lakes, and more. The trek is about 110 km, takes 9-11 days, and starts in the anticlockwise direction from the Laguna Amarga. November to early April is the best to take the O Trek.

The trek is not for the faint-hearted. It requires hikers to be in the good physical condition and be prepared for some challenging situations. Despite that, you will be rewarded with some of the most incredible views on Earth.

47. Enjoy a Fantastic Wildlife View from the Tercera Barranca to Sierra Baguales Trail

• Torres de Paine, Magallanes y la Antártica Chilena, Chile

The Tercera Barranca to Sierra Baguales trail is a great way to see some of the best scenery in Chilean Patagonia. It’s near Torres del Paine National Park. You’ll be rewarded with views of the incredible wildlife in the world, such as condors, rheas, and horses.

The trek also takes you through some of the world’s most remote and beautiful landscapes.

You can explore the five cattle gates and the serene environment nature offers. The trail is challenging, but it’s definitely worth it.

48. Nothing Beats the Magnificent Picturesque View of the Queulat Hanging Glacier

• Aysén, Chile

The Queulat Hanging Glacier (Ventisquero Colgante) is located in Queulat National Park, Aysén del General Carlos Ibáñez del Campo Región. The Queulat Hanging Glacier trail is considered easy, with 2 miles to cover starting from Sendero Ventisquero Colgante.

The mesmerizing glacier view can be seen from the Austral Highway. This trail offers spectacular views of mountains, forests, waterfalls, and wildlife. However, the stunning view of the Hanging Glacier is the trek’s high point. The glacier, perched on a mountain top, has multiple waterfalls, which are breathtaking.

Guyana

49. Guyana’s Breathtaking Waterfall, Kaieteur Falls

• Chenapau, Potaro-Siparuni, Guyana

You can go for a one-day trek or enjoy camping during a five-day hike to Kaieteur Falls. The Kaieteur Fall trail is a bit challenging, although it’s only 2.4 km if you choose the one-day trek. However, brace yourself for a steep ascent when climbing the top of the “Oh My God” mountain.

If you’re going for a 5-day hike, the trek is around 36km, and the starting point is Georgetown.

The Kaieteur waterfall is the largest single-drop waterfall in the world. It offers the most beautiful and mind-blowing view. You’ll also enjoy boat rides and camping in the jungle.

50. A Simple Trek to Surama Mountain

• Guyana

The Surama Mountain trail takes you to the top of Mount Surama. You’ll have a better view of the small Amerindian village of Surama, Guraya. The trail is short; however, it is a moderately challenging trek. Enjoy the lush green forest and the beautiful birdlife.

South America is a diverse and beautiful place full of incredible hiking opportunities. Our article on the 50 best hiking trails in South America covers a wide range of terrain, from flat coastal trails to spectacular mountain climbs and everything in between. So whether you want to explore the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu or hike through lush tropical forests, there’s a trail for you.

What’s the Best Time To Go Hiking in South America?

Individual walks and straightforward climbs start to happen now in areas distant from the equator during spring (September to November). However, this also depends on the area. High-altitude mountain climbs are also feasible in regions with low latitudes. For instance, it is possible to climb the Chimborazo year-round, even in the autumn. The optimum season to trek and climb is during the winter in high-latitude nations like Chile and Argentina.

Are South American Adventures Safe?

Just like the USA, trails in South America are relatively safe. Yes, there are unsafe areas of the continent for travelers. However, the great majority of the locations you’ll probably visit while exploring South America are quite safe.