With its soaring peaks, lush rainforests, and otherworldly deserts, South America is a paradise for hikers and adventurers. The continent’s diverse landscapes offer jaw-dropping beauty at every turn — from the Andes’ rugged trails to Patagonia’s glacier-carved valleys. Whether you crave challenging treks or serene walks among ancient ruins, the scenic hikes in South America are among the most unforgettable on the planet.

Each trail promises something special. You’ll discover dazzling lakes that shift color in the sunlight, ancient civilizations hidden by jungle vines, and mountaintop vistas that leave you breathless. Ready to lace up your boots? Here’s your ultimate guide to some of the most breathtaking hiking routes across South America’s wild and wonderful terrain.

1. Torres del Paine “W” Trek – Chile

Few treks on Earth capture the raw power of nature like the “W” Trek in Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park. Over 4–5 thrilling days, you’ll weave through a fantasyland of granite spires, electric-blue glaciers, and rolling Patagonian steppe. Along the way, you’ll pass shimmering lakes like Nordenskjöld and awe-inspiring views of the Cuernos del Paine and the Torres themselves — massive stone towers that pierce the sky.

Weather here changes rapidly, so expect everything from fierce winds to brilliant sunbursts. Campsites and lodges along the trail offer cozy shelters where you can rest and share stories with fellow adventurers. Torres del Paine isn’t just a hike — it’s a soul-stirring journey into Patagonia’s wild heart.

• Distance: About 80 km (50 miles)
• Best time to hike: November to March (Patagonian summer)
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

2. Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – Peru

The Inca Trail offers more than just a physical challenge. It’s a journey through history, misty cloud forests, and ancient stone ruins. Starting from the Sacred Valley, this legendary trek leads over mountain passes like Dead Woman’s Pass and eventually rewards hikers with a first glimpse of Machu Picchu at sunrise through the iconic Sun Gate.

Since permits are limited, booking months ahead is essential. With a good guide, you’ll not only reach the ruins but also gain a deeper appreciation for the lost Incan civilization. Truly, it’s one of the crown jewels among scenic hikes in South America.

• Distance: 42 km (26 miles)
• Best time to hike: May to September (dry season)
• Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous

3. Laguna de los Tres – Argentina

For those craving Patagonia’s iconic peaks without a multi-day commitment, Laguna de los Tres near El Chaltén is a dream come true. The trail starts gently, passing meadows and forests, before a steep final climb rewards you with surreal views of Mount Fitz Roy reflected in a turquoise lake.

Patagonian weather can shift in an instant, so come prepared. However, the reward is beyond worth it — a dramatic encounter with nature at its most powerful and pristine.

• Distance: About 20 km (12 miles) round trip
• Best time to hike: October to April
• Difficulty: Moderate

4. Ciudad Perdida Trek – Colombia

Hidden within the dense jungles of the Sierra Nevada lies the Lost City, or Ciudad Perdida. Older than Machu Picchu, it can only be reached by a challenging trek that spans 4–5 days through muddy paths, river crossings, and lush rainforest. Yet, the payoff is profound — ancient stone terraces cloaked in mist and mystery.

Along the trail, you’ll meet the Kogi people who still live traditionally in this region. Their connection to the land will deepen your respect for this unforgettable scenic hike in South America.

5. Quilotoa Loop – Ecuador

If you love colorful villages and wide-open landscapes, Ecuador’s Quilotoa Loop is calling. This self-guided trek offers flexible options, letting you meander from town to town at your own pace. At the center sits the spectacular Quilotoa Crater Lake, a dazzling volcanic lagoon that shifts between emerald green and deep turquoise under changing skies.

Plus, along the way, you’ll encounter traditional Andean markets and welcoming locals, adding rich cultural texture to the natural beauty around you.

6. Mount Roraima – Venezuela

Mount Roraima feels like something from another planet. This vast tabletop mountain, located where Venezuela, Brazil, and Guyana meet, inspired Arthur Conan Doyle’s novel “The Lost World.” Trekking here means climbing through cloud forests, crossing surreal landscapes, and arriving at a plateau filled with strange rock formations, crystal valleys, and rare plant species found nowhere else.

• Distance: About 30 km (19 miles) each way
• Best time to hike: December to April (dry season)
• Difficulty: Challenging

7. Ausangate Trek – Peru

For those who want altitude, solitude, and jaw-dropping beauty, head to Ausangate near Cusco. This circuit around the sacred mountain passes colorful lakes, snow-capped peaks, and the famous Rainbow Mountain. You’ll trek through tiny Andean villages where traditions live strong.

• Distance: About 70 km (43 miles)
• Best time to hike: May to September
• Difficulty: Challenging (high altitude)

8. Chapada Diamantina – Brazil

Deep in Bahia’s interior, Chapada Diamantina offers plateaus, waterfalls, and caves in an untamed landscape. Trekking the Pati Valley means exploring dramatic canyons and sleeping in simple local guesthouses, under a billion stars.

• Distance: About 60 km (37 miles)
• Best time to hike: May to September
• Difficulty: Moderate

9. El Altar Trek – Ecuador

Inside Ecuador’s wild Sangay National Park, the El Altar trek winds through thick cloud forests and muddy trails to a jaw-dropping lagoon framed by volcanic cliffs. It’s remote, rugged, and rewards with scenery few have seen.

• Distance: About 25 km (15 miles) round trip
• Best time to hike: August to January
• Difficulty: Challenging

10. Valle de Cocora – Colombia

Imagine misty mountains and fields of towering wax palms — that’s Valle de Cocora. Near the charming town of Salento, this hike is pure magic with its dreamy cloud forests, hummingbird gardens, and rope bridges.

• Distance: 12–15 km (7–9 miles) loop
• Best time to hike: December to March
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

These scenic hikes in South America offer more than breathtaking views. They offer connection: to wild places, to ancient peoples, and to your own adventurous spirit. Whether you seek glaciers, rainforests, or sacred mountains, South America’s trails are waiting for you. Now’s the time — lace up your boots and answer the call.

Which South American hike tops your list? Share your dream destination below — and follow WentWorld for more epic adventure guides and travel inspiration!