South America has some of the most stunning landscapes in the world and is a dream destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Before moving to Canada, I embarked on a 2-month backpacking journey through Peru, Bolivia and Northern Chile. Looking back, this experience in South America was undoubtedly one of the best decision I’ve ever made. Especially because it led me to discover 4 amazing hikes that showcase the continent’s raw beauty and diversity.
Beyond its UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the iconic Machu Picchu, South America is home to some of the best hikes on the planet. With the Andes, the second largest mountain range in the world, running like a spine through the continent, South America offers both off the beaten path trails and must-visit treks.
Before my trip, I had little idea of the sheer variety of hiking opportunities South America had to offer. That’s exactly why I am writing this blog post: to share my tips and recommendations on the best 4 hiking trails in South America between Peru and Northern Chile. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or just starting out, these trails will leave you awestruck.
So, strap on your boots and let’s dive into everything you need to know to conquer your next summit!
Table of Contents
1. Huayhuash Trek in Peru
Huayhuash Trek is a challenging multi-day high-altitude trek around the Cordillera Huayhuash in the Peruvian Andes. I did the Huayhuash Trek in 8 days but there are some tours that offer it in 12 days. This trek includes multiple mountain passes over 4,000 meters or even 5,000 meters and offers breathtaking views of the second highest mountain in Peru and other snow-capped mountains.
- Duration: 8-12 days (depending on the route)
- Best time to go: Dry season from May to September
- Difficulty: Challenging (high altitude and remote)
- Highest point reached: Cuyoc Pass (5,000 m / 16,404 ft)
- Starting point: Huaraz, Trailhead in Llamac Village
- Should I book a tour? Recommended for logistics; self-guided is possible with required experience
- Cost: For a guided tours, prices range between $400 and $600
2. Cerro Toco Volcano in Chile
Located near San Pedro de Atacama, the hike to the summit of the Cerro Toco volcano in Chile is a relatively short and non-technical hike. In fact, the ascent only takes approximately 1.5 hours and rewards trekkers with panoramic views of the Atacama Desert and the Licancabur Volcano on the border with Bolivia. This hike is ideal for acclimatizing to high altitudes.
- Duration: Half-day
- Best time to go: April to November
- Difficulty: Moderate; steep but short hike at high altitude
- Highest point reached: 5,604 m / 18,385 ft
- Starting point: San Pedro de Atacama, 1 hour drive to trailhead
- Should I book a tour? Optional but recommended for logistics and gear
- Cost: For a guided tour, prices range between $60 and $100
3. Salkantay Trek in Peru
The Salkantay Trek is a popular alternative trek to the Inca Trail, offering a scenic route to the iconic archeological site of Machu Picchu. In fact, the most complete itinerary involves a 5 day trek through lush forests and high altitude passes, such as the Salkantay Pass (4,600 m / 15,092 ft). The main highlights on the trek are stunning views of snow-capped mountains, turquoise alpine lakes and a rewarding climb to the world-famous Inca site of Machu Picchu.
- Duration: 4-6 days (different tour options)
- Best time to go: Dry season from April to October
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging; hiking at high altitudes
- Highest point reached: 4,600 m / 15,092 ft
- Starting point: Cusco, Trailhead in Mollepata or Soraypampa
- Should I book a tour? Recommended for logistics but self-guided is possible
- Cost: For a guided tour, prices range between $250 and $450
4. Colca Canyon in Peru
This 2 to 3 day Colca Canyon trek descends into one of the deepest canyons in the world. You’ll hike past small villages and lush oases, while enjoying the views of Andean condors soaring overhead in the skies. The trek will end with a challenging climb back to the rim.
- Duration: 2-3 days (we did it in 2 days)
- Best time to go: March to May or September to November
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging; steep descents and ascents
- Highest point reached: 3,200 m / 10,499 ft (canyon depth is ~1,200 m / 3,937 ft)
- Starting point: Arequipa, Trailhead in Cabanaconde
- Should I book a tour? Optional, self-guided is possible with some planning
- Cost: Guided tours range around $150
What to Pack on a Multi-Day Trek
Note: there are no affiliate links in this post and all the recommendations below are purely based on my own research and personal experience.
Of the 4 amazing hikes in South America I cover in this blog post, three are multi-day treks. If you choose to embark on these adventures with a tour guide, you likely won’t need to worry about packing a tent or 3 meals per day. In fact, most tours take care of these logistics for you. At the same time, it’s crucial to be prepared. Below, I put together my recommended list of essential items to pack on a hike.
Clothing & Footwear
- Base layers: merino wool is my favorite as it will keep you warm while absorbing your sweat. The best would be to have one for the day hikes and one for the cold nights.
- Mid Layers: fleece and/or down jackets are a must, especially at higher elevations.
- Outer Layers: Waterproof or at least windproof jacket and if you’re hiking in the rainy season, waterproof pants as well.
- Trekking Pants or Shorts: I personally love the 2 in 1 short pant options, such as this pair from Salewa. It gives you the flexibility of hiking in either shorts or pants at the same time. When weather is unpredictable, this is life changing!
- Underwear & Socks: merino wool hiking bras and socks have improved my hiking adventures massively! In fact, I don’t get blisters anymore and I stay warm the entire time.
- Headgear: don’t forget a warm hat or a headband
- Gloves: light and insulated, but it all depends on weather. My rule of thumb is better to have and not need, than need and not have.
- Hiking boots: I’ve had my Scarpa hiking boots for over 3 years now, but they’re still as comfortable and in perfect shape as on day 1. These are probably some of the comfiest hiking boots on the market. Although, they’re a bit pricey, if you plan on hiking regularly, they’re an investment worth making.
- Sandals: pack some lightweight sandals for when you reach camp at the end of the day.
Sleeping Gear
A tent is typically provided by the tour guide, but if you have your own, you’re more than welcome to bring it along. Additionally, tours provide sleeping bags and sleeping pads. For the multi-day treks of these 4 amazing hikes, at higher altitudes we received two sleeping bags each, ensuring cozy nights despite the cold. That said, I highly recommend bringing your sleeping bag liner and a lightweight camping pillow for extra comfort.
Backpack
There are currently so many backpacks on the market that it’s hard to choose which one is the best. I personally still use my backpack that was gifted to me when I turned 18 and to this day wouldn’t need to change it. However, a brand that has built a good reputation for its great backpacks is Osprey. Although I haven’t tried any of their backpacks myself you can’t go wrong with their Ariel 65 and Kyte 48 models. If you choose to do one of these 4 amazing hikes, I highly recommend using a sturdy backpack with good back support.
Cooking and Food
One of the perks of booking with a tour guide, is that you won’t have to worry about carrying kitchen supplies or food. These are provided and every meal is prepared by one of the tour members. However, I recommend packing some snacks, such as nuts, trail mix or granola bars for extra energy during the treks. Also, it’s a good idea to pack some electrolytes to help replenish the minerals lost through sweat, ensuring you stay hydrated throughout the treks.
An item I always take with me on all of my hikes is a water filter. Since all of these 4 amazing hikes are at high elevations, hydration is crucial and you should aim to drink plenty of water throughout the trek. I’ve been using a Grayl bottle for the last couple of years and have had only good experiences with this brand. However, there are many other options on the market, such as the Platypus GravityWorks.
Personal and Miscellaneous Items
I will list below some additional essential items that you should bring on these 4 amazing hikes.
- Trekking poles: trust me on this one; these are long hikes at higher altitudes and trekking poles really make the difference in the long run.
- First aid kit: pack tablets and any other medication for any potential occurrence, including altitude sickness.
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Headlamp
- Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes etc.
- Quick-dry towel
- Power bank
Final Thoughts on these 4 Amazing Hikes in South America
There are countless hiking trails across South America and I feel I’ve only scratched the surface. But, these 4 amazing hikes are in my opinion the best of Peru and Northern Chile. What makes them stand out are the jaw-dropping sceneries and the unbelievable landscapes. While I’ve highlighted some popular hikes like the Salkantay Trek, Cerro Toco and Colca Canyon, it was the more off the beaten path Huayhuash Trek that truly captured my heart. If there is one hike you should do before you die, Huayhuash trek is the one that deserves a spot on your bucket list.
