South America is a paradise for adventure seekers, offering breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and challenging terrains. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a thrill-seeker looking for your next big trek, these best hiking trails in South America promise unforgettable experiences.
1. Inca Trail, Peru
The Inca Trail is one of the most famous hiking trails in the world, leading to the legendary Machu Picchu. This 26-mile (42 km) trek takes you through stunning Andean landscapes, cloud forests, and ancient Incan ruins. The journey typically lasts four days, with the final reward being the awe-inspiring sight of Machu Picchu at sunrise. Due to its popularity, permits are required and sell out months in advance.
Why Hike It?
- Iconic Machu Picchu views
- Ancient Incan ruins along the way
- Challenging but rewarding experience
2. Torres del Paine Circuit, Chile
Located in Patagonia, the Torres del Paine Circuit (O-Circuit) is a multi-day trek through some of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth. This 80-mile (129 km) hike takes around 7–10 days and offers stunning views of glaciers, turquoise lakes, and jagged mountain peaks. A shorter version, the W-Trek, covers 50 miles (80 km) and can be completed in 4–5 days.
Why Hike It?
- Breathtaking Patagonian landscapes
- Close encounters with glaciers and wildlife
- Challenging but accessible to experienced hikers
3. Roraima Trek, Venezuela
The Mount Roraima trek is a journey to the legendary tabletop mountain that inspired Arthur Conan Doyle’s The Lost World. This six-day hike covers around 40 miles (64 km), leading hikers through dense jungle, across rivers, and up the towering plateau. The summit features otherworldly rock formations, rare plants, and breathtaking views over three countries (Venezuela, Brazil, and Guyana).
Why Hike It?
- Unique geological formations
- Stunning panoramic views
- A remote and lesser-known adventure
4. Huayna Potosí, Bolivia
For those seeking a high-altitude adventure, Huayna Potosí is one of the most accessible 6,000-meter peaks in the world. Located near La Paz, Bolivia, this two to three-day climb (not just a hike) involves trekking on glaciers and using mountaineering gear. While challenging, it is considered one of the best beginner climbs for aspiring mountaineers.
Why Hike It?
- Reach a 6,088-meter (19,974 ft) summit
- Ideal for beginner mountaineers
- Unforgettable sunrise views over the Andes
5. The Lost City Trek, Colombia
The Ciudad Perdida (Lost City) trek is an adventure deep into the Colombian jungle. This 28-mile (45 km) round-trip trek takes four to six days and leads to the ruins of Teyuna, an ancient city older than Machu Picchu. Along the way, hikers pass through lush rainforests, indigenous villages, and river crossings.
Why Hike It?
- Discover an ancient lost city
- Experience the Colombian jungle
- Rich cultural and historical significance
From the mystical ruins of Machu Picchu to the untamed beauty of Patagonia, South America’s best hiking trails offer adventure, history, and unparalleled natural beauty. Whether you’re chasing altitude, glaciers, or lost civilizations, there’s a trail waiting for you.
