If you’re an adventure enthusiast, captivated by breathtaking nature and impressive landscapes, you’ve come to the right place. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of the best hikes in South America as we guide you through some of the most incredible hiking trails this continent has to offer.

South America is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts, beckoning you with challenging and rewarding trails that will immerse you in an epic adventure. From majestic mountains to lush jungles and captivating deserts, this continent awaits you with its invigorating and fulfilling paths. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the hidden wonders of South America on this unforgettable hiking journey! Let’s get started!

Argentina 

1. Los Glaciares National Park

The Glaciares National Park in Patagonia, Argentina, dazzles with its majestic mountain scenery. With the imposing Mount Fitz Roy, crystal-clear lakes, impressive glaciers, and lush forests, this dreamlike destination has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Divided into northern and southern parts, it offers free entry in the north and a nominal fee in the south. Discover the magnificence of this must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers, where jagged peaks, lakes, rivers, and forests await you for an unforgettable experience in the Argentine Patagonia.

Fitz Roy Treks

• Hub City: El Chalten
• Length: 1-6+ days (as series of day hikes or multi-day treks)
• Difficulty: Moderate 
• Max altitude: 1,170 masl / 3,840 ft

The majestic peaks of Fitz Roy, sculpted by ice over years of formation, create a stunning backdrop in Patagonia. Formerly known as “Cerro Chaltén” in the native Aonikenk language, which means “smoking mountain,” this misty and mystical environment feels like something out of a natural wonders movie. In the shadow of Mount Fitz Roy, you’ll find spectacular destinations such as Laguna de los Tres, Laguna Torre, Glaciar Piedras Blancas, Loma del Pliegue Tumbado, Lago Cóndor, and Glaciar Pollone. These routes can be done as day hikes or combined for a multi-day trekking expedition.

Take your time to slowly enjoy the landscape, as the trails are well-marked with clear signs. You’ll also encounter fellow hikers who can guide you along the way. Along the route to Laguna de los Tres, there are two campsites available for overnight stays. Seize this opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region as you explore these captivating trails in the Argentine Patagonia.

Huemul Circuit

• Hub City: El Chalten
• Length: 4 days
• Difficulty: Very Challenging 
• Max altitude: 1,410 masl / 4,640 ft

The Huemul Circuit, one of the best routes in South America, offers an exhilarating journey in the Argentine Patagonia. With diverse and less crowded landscapes, you’ll hike through shady forests, cross rivers on zip lines, and traverse a giant glacier free of charge. Marvel at the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, a unique wonder on this trek. Obtain a free permit in El Chaltén and prepare for a challenging expedition with crampons required for the Lower Tunnel Glacier.

Perito Moreno Glacier Trek

• Hub city: El Calafate
• Length: 1 day
• Difficulty: Easy
• Max altitude: 520 masl / 1,710 ft

This is truly the experience of a lifetime! Perito Moreno is the third largest glacier in Patagonia and one of the few that is expanding rather than shrinking. This immense ice giant is located in Lake Argentina, in the southern part of the park, and can be visited on an exciting day trip. Above the water, there are about 25 floors of solid ice, and if you were to look down, you would see that it’s only 15% of the entire glacier. Walking on the top, you’ll be transported to the wintery wonderland of the Ice Age saga, surrounded by shimmering blue ice, white snow, deep ice crevices, mysterious ice caves, and crystal-clear ponds. The glacier breathes with ethereal sounds, like a living being, constantly moving and changing. This is your chance to put on crampons and walk on icy trails that will leave you speechless.

The only way to walk on the glacier is through a guided excursion like Minitrekking or Big Ice, which can be quite pricey and should be booked through a company like Hielo y Aventura. A more budget-friendly option is to take a bus from El Calafate to Perito Moreno and enjoy a couple of hours walking on the well-maintained boardwalks that surround the water’s edge. You’ll get incredible views of the glacier walls’ intricate details and be awe-struck by its size, witnessing firsthand the chunks of ice “calving” and falling into the surrounding water with a resounding splash.

2. Nahuel Huapi National Park

Bariloche, the gateway to the park, is an ideal destination for hiking and adventure, as well as a charming mountain town with European influences. Located in Argentina’s Lake District, this region is home to over 60 lakes and was the country’s first national park. From day trips to multi-day treks, there are options for every preference.

The park features a system of interconnected cabins along the trails, providing convenience and eliminating the need to carry a tent or contend with Patagonia’s changing weather overnight. Some cabins even offer food and beverages (though at higher prices). This region offers a more summery landscape compared to Los Glaciares, with panoramic views of green forests, rocky formations, and brilliantly blue lakes beckoning to be explored. As you walk, you’ll feel like you’re in a fairy tale, surrounded by towering trees, shrubs, and beautiful waterfalls fed by hanging glaciers. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to admire the local wildlife. It’s like the Switzerland of South America.

It’s important to register at the national park before embarking on any hikes (it’s free), and you may be required to sign a liability waiver. The park entrance fee is approximately $20 for the first day and then $10 per day from the second day onwards.

Nahuel Huapi Traverse

• Hub city: Bariloche
• Length: 5 days
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Max altitude: 2,060 masl / 6,760 ft

This hut-to-hut trail touches many of the park’s best lakes (and their picturesque surroundings): Frey, Ilon, Black, Jakob, and Lopez. You’ll also get great views of Cerro Tronador (Thunder Hill) and the Puntiagudo Volcano. The hike goes through lenga tree forests, meadows, past waterfalls, and snow-covered mountains, and through rocky scree with many wildflowers, woodland creatures and starry nights thrown in. The trail leads from Villa Catedral to Refugio Frey to Refugio Jakob to Refugio Laguna Negra to Refugio Lopez. Refugio prices range from $18-26 a night. Camping at Refugio Laguna Negra is $3, and the rest are free. You need to make all reservations ahead of time. Wild camping isn’t allowed. 

You’ll end the trek at Colonia Suiza (Swiss Colony), a quaint village that has maintained the peculiar Swiss flavor of times past. Some parts of the trail are well marked, and others are not, so know your route. The Circuito Chico trek is a shorter, 3-day version along the same general route. You can also reach some of these destinations on day hikes from Bariloche.

Otto Meiling Refugio (Cerro Tronador) + Paso de las Nubes 

• Hub City: Bariloche
• Length: 3 days
• Difficulty: Moderate 
• Max altitude: 1,890 masl / 6,190 ft

Discover the most popular trek in the park: the Cerro Tronador Circuit. On the first day, you will hike to Refugio Otto Meiling, located at the foot of the snowy Cerro Tronador, an inactive volcano. The mountain’s name comes from the sound of ice falling and crashing against the rocks, creating a unique auditory experience in the midst of nature. One of the most breathtaking sights along the trail is the waterfalls cascading from the hanging glaciers. Remember to book in advance to stay at the refuge, either inside (27 dollars) or camping nearby (9 dollars).

On the second day, you will head towards Paso de las Nubes and conclude at Refugio Augustino Rocca. Here, you will enjoy fabulous views of the lush forests of the Frías Valley. Another highlight is walking through the Patagonian cypress or alerce forests, cousins of the giant sequoias of North America. On the last day, you will descend alongside the Frías River, passing by the Frías Glacier and its waterfalls, until you reach Lake Frías. From there, you will return to Bariloche by boat and bus. Like other trails in the park, you are likely to share the landscape with Andean condors and other fascinating local creatures. Please note that camping is not allowed in the park!

Colombia 

1. Sierra Nevada of Santa Marta Natural National Park

Lost City of Teyuna Trek

• Hub city: Santa Marta
• Length: 4-5 days
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Max altitude: 1,500 masl / 4,920 ft

Discover the impressive Lost City of Teyuna, an ancient and mysterious city located in the Sierra Nevada near the Caribbean coast of Colombia. This archaeological gem, 650 years older than Machu Picchu, holds the secrets of the Tayrona civilization. As you follow in the footsteps of your Columbian ancestors, you will venture into a tropical paradise, surrounded by lush jungle vegetation, and yes, mosquitoes too. Be prepared to cross rivers and face the challenges of humidity and heat.

During the excursion, you will have the privilege of encountering native tribal groups who consider this mountain their home and have always known the location of the “lost city.” Upon reaching the summit, after climbing 1200 steps, you will have time to explore the city and participate in a traditional purification ceremony. Remember to book with an official tour company to embark on this challenging round-trip trail, which involves mud, steep slopes, insects, heat, and humidity.

While in the national park, you can also explore other available hiking routes: Los Pinos Trek, Cerro Kennedy, Nukwlindwe, Quebrada San Lorenzo, Cascada del Río Gaira, as well as the peaks of Colón and Bolívar.

2. Los Nevados Natural National Park

Cocora Valley Treks

• Hub city: Salento
• Length: 1-6+ days
• Difficulty: Moderate 
• Max altitude: 2,860 masl / 9,380 ft

Here you will find the tallest palm trees in the world and Colombia’s national tree: the whimsical wax palm of Quindio. It’s a world straight out of a Dr. Seuss book or Where the Wild Things Are. While this valley can be explored in a day trip, there are several incredible trails and destinations to choose from for an extended adventure. For example, you can visit the active volcanoes Santa Isabel, Tolima, and Ruiz, Lake Otún, Lake Encanto, Paramillo del Quindio, and Cañón Hot Springs. If you’re a fan of hummingbirds, take a 1 km detour from the main trail to visit the Acaime Hummingbird Reserve. Within the park, there are several farms, or family-owned estates, that often offer accommodation or meals (for a fee).

Throughout the region, the landscapes are simply magical. There are waterfalls, vast plains, green valleys, babbling rivers, volcanoes, scrubland, wetlands, glaciers, and enchanting forests. This is the natural habitat of many friendly animals that will also accompany you. The park entrance fee is approximately $11. While it’s not absolutely necessary to have a guide, it would be a good idea as the thick fog can easily disorient hikers.

Hiking paradise in South America that will take your breath away 

South America presents itself as a paradise for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. Remember that every step you take on these trails brings you closer to the unique biodiversity of South America. Every mountain you conquer, every river you cross, and every breathtaking panoramic view connects you with the grandeur of nature and provides a transformative experience.
Get ready to live unforgettable moments, discover awe-inspiring landscapes, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and hospitality of South American countries. Embark on your own adventure and let the best hikes in South America surprise and fill you with wonder!

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