Trekking in South America
The diversity of terrain in South America is the real draw for trekkers. Organized tours delve deep into the lush Amazon rainforest or high up into the peaks and valleys of the Andes. They range from fun relaxing day hikes to long excursions where few travelers venture. The more remote treks are best done with the help of a local guide, though there are countless choices for independent types.
Inca Trail, Peru: Peru’s legendary trek rewards visitors with a firsthand look at the stunning Incan site Machu Picchu. South America’s best hiking-culture combination runs 26 miles up the slopes of the Andes. As it climbs, the trail passes through lush tropical jungle, misty cloud forest and some truly beautiful mountain scenery. There’s an undeniable sense of mystery and importance when you walk in the footsteps of the ancient Inca. It’s easy to see why the Spanish never found this remote hideaway.
Torres del Paine, Chile: It won’t take long to understand why this superlative national park is one of the most popular trekking sites in South America. Hundreds of miles of trails lead travelers through a majestic landscape littered with jagged snow-clad peaks, turquoise alpine lakes and ice-blue glaciers. Day hikes are a great way to see the sights, but there are also excellent backcountry cabins (refugios) if you want to fully immerse yourself in its splendor.
Alausi, Ecuador: If Peru’s Inca Trail feels too crowded, head north to Ecuador and check out the web of ancient Inca paths that run from Alausi to the incredible Inca fortress at Ingapirca. Besides the obvious charms of wandering in solitude past timeworn ruins, the views of Mount Chimborazo and the rest of the Andes make this a wonderful trek.
Parque Nacional Manu, Peru: This massive park in the Amazon Basin is incredibly remote, protecting its wealth of wildlife from loggers, hunters and other predators. The only way to experience this pristine environment is to join a tour and trek deep into the park, as entry is prohibited without a guide. Though the wildlife is the main draw, its lakes, rivers and dense towering forest are equally impressive.
Cordillera Blanca, Peru: One of the greatest trekking experiences in South America is this 112-mile trail that traverses the best alpine scenery Peru has to offer. Amid the snowcapped mountains lie dozens of glaciers, sparkling lakes, archeological sites and a smattering of wildlife. If you can’t handle the entire length of this trail, it’s possible to do smaller sections.
Choro Trail, Bolivia: This centuries-old path is the best known of Bolivia’s Yunga Trails, providing trekkers with a full spectrum of zones to explore. The trail rises from subtropical jungle through forests and up above treeline into a barren icy land that looks like a moonscape. The Choro is fairly easy to hike but still puts you into some serious elevation.
Podocarpus National Park, Ecuador: This large swath of the southern Sierra range has the greatest biodiversity of any park in Ecuador. Rainforest, cloud forest and more than 100 high mountain lakes provide refuge to a bewildering array of endangered wildlife. Loja is the best entry point and shortest route to the interior cabins and camping sites that put you right in the heart of the action.
Guyana’s rainforests, Guyana: Often overlooked due to its size and location, Guyana is actually one of the real gems of this region for outdoor excursions. The country is covered in pristine rainforest and crisscrossed by countless rivers. The most developed trekking routes begin in the Upper Essequito River basin, where ecolodges and experienced guides will set you up. If you’re looking for a jungle trek well off the beaten path, make your way to this Caribbean nation and be a true pioneer.
Yasuni National Park, Ecuador: A big highlight of Ecuador’s largest national park is the indigenous Huaoranu people who live in its rainforest. A handful of nature lodges in the park can guide you deep into the jungle to meet this isolated group of Indians. Dozens of lakes, rivers and streams are home to fascinating wildlife such as pink river dolphins and brilliantly colored birds.
Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina: The glaciers of South America are a major feature, and there’s no better place to get up close and personal with one than in Argentina. Guided treks take you past ice canyons and deep into the heart of this surreal UNESCO World Heritage site.