Hiking in the Andes, South America

South America’s Andes Mountains lure travellers from around the globe with their spectacular hiking trails. From snow-capped peaks to lush green valleys, the 7,000km mountain range crosses seven countries and is home to a fantastic range of landscapes and biodiversity.

When it comes to plant life, the Andes is a famous hotspot. The region contains around one sixth of all plant species on the planet. Animal biodiversity is high too, particularly when it comes to birds. There are more than 1,500 species of bird living in the tropical Andes, about a third of which aren’t found anywhere else in the world.

And let’s not forget the region’s incredible cultural heritage. Hiking in the Andes is more than an escape into nature – the region offers the opportunity to learn about, and connect with, cultural heritage dating back thousands of years. There really is something for everyone to discover in the remarkable mountain range.

Take on the iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

One of the most famous hiking trails in the world, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a popular bucket list experience for good reason. Winding through the breath-taking Andean peaks, the multi-day Inca Trail is a spiritual experience that fosters a connection with ancient Andean civilisations. Hikers become immersed in the mountainous landscape, with the opportunity to bask in stunning panoramic views of peaks, forests and valleys with every step.

The trail takes four days and three nights, and covers 38km of well-trodden paths. It is only possible to hike the trail with a guide and the most cost-effective option is to join a group. It won’t be a solitary experience (the government limits permits to 500 people per day), but there is a reason it is so popular! You can expect a half day for day one, a long hiking day on day two, a moderate hike on the third day and a short (but very early morning) hike to the Sungate at Machu Picchu on the final day.

For many, reaching the summit of Dead Woman’s Pass – the highest point on the trail – is a stand-out memory. Pausing to admire the view from above the clouds not only offers a profound sense of accomplishment after an intense and physically demanding climb, but also a brilliant perspective on the surrounding Andean landscape. The cloud forests in the area are home to unique high-altitude bromeliads and you might even spot an Andean deer.

The ecosystems along the trail are home to a rich diversity of plant and animal species, including spectacled bears and Andean condors, as well as numerous endemic plant species. Beyond its unbeatable natural beauty, hikers appreciate the trail’s fascinating history. Archaeological sites and Inca ruins can be spotted along the way and hikers are greeted with an unforgettable view of the ancient city as the grand finale.

Popular hikes to uncover in the Andes

There are uncountable hikes to choose from in the Andes. Besides the Inca Trail, some other top choices include the “O” Circuit in Torres del Paine in Chile, the Santa Cruz Trek in Peru and the Quilotoa Loop in Ecuador.

#1 Torres del Paine O Circuit

The Torres del Paine O Circuit is an eight or nine day hike around stunning, glacial landscapes. The route takes hikers through forests and around lakes and glaciers in the beautiful Torres del Paine National Park. At one of the viewpoints along the circuit, hikers can see the spot where the biggest glacier in the park, Grey Glacier, melts into Lake Grey.

#2 Santa Cruz Trek in Cordillera Blanca

For an adventure further from Peru’s beaten path, check out the Santa Cruz Trek in Cordillera Blanca. This hiking adventure takes three or four days and there are plenty of campsites to choose from. Alpine forests, glacial lakes and wildflower meadows provide incredible photo opportunities, all set among the backdrop of the Andes’ towering peaks. The nights might plunge into negative figures, but as the darkness draws in, the stars paint a magical skyscape overhead.

#3 Hike the Quilotoa Loop

The Quilotoa Loop can be done in a little more comfort than other hikes in the Andes; there is no need for a guide and there are hostels and guesthouses along the route – so no tent necessary!

The ring-shaped trail connects villages surrounding the stunning Quilotoa Lake – a picture-perfect body of water in the crater of a volcano that erupted some 600 years ago.

The loop takes around three days and, while it is challenging with lots of steep uphill and downhill stretches, it is achievable for anybody with a moderate level of fitness. At the end of the trail, you can hike to the rim of the lake and rent a canoe to experience the crater’s turquoise waters from a different perspective.

Seek solitude with less-travelled Andean hikes

The Andes cover a vast area and there are plenty of stunning quieter trails to choose from if you’re looking for a more solitary adventure.

If you want to experience the Peruvian peaks without the Inca Trail’s crowds, check out the Ausangate Trek and the Huayhuash Circuit, which both wind through spectacular mountain scenery.

In Chile, the Cochamo Valley is a gem for avid climbers, as well as hikers keen to spot rare plants and birds. For an Ecuadorian adventure, head into the Cloud Forest Reserve, where you can experience the region’s immense biodiversity up close as you wind through the dense forest.

Top tips for hiking in the Andes

• Break your walking boots in before you arrive! A comfy pair of shoes can make all the difference to your hiking experience in the Andes.
• Bring plenty of bug repellent.
• Check the weather forecast for the region you are visiting - you might need sunscreen, thermals, or both.
• Depending on the hikes you’re planning, consider asking your doctor about options for altitude medicine.
• Take a day or two to acclimatise to high altitude before embarking on a strenuous hike in the peaks.
• Take some cash if you are booked onto a guided hike and be prepared to tip guides and porters.

Experience new heights in the Andes

Whether you’re following in the footsteps of ancient civilisations or spotting species found nowhere else in the world, hiking in the Andes is guaranteed to be a truly unforgettable experience.

The region is simply stunning, with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks along many of the popular hiking trails. Most of the popular hikes in the Andes are multi-day experiences but, despite their length, there are trails suitable for hikers of all experience levels.

For many, the opportunity to stop overnight adds to the hiking experience, helping hikers disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse themselves in the landscape. Because of its remoteness, hikers are also guaranteed unbelievably clear night skies – perfect for adding a touch of magic to the hikes that involve a few nights of camping along the way.