South America is a beautiful and diverse country, with long stretching beaches, warm oceans, colourful cities and areas of exceptional natural beauty. Hiking in South America will give you the opportunity to explore a variety of areas on the continent, ranging from the world famous Iguaza Falls, the phenomenal Chilean Lake District, to the laid-back but vibrant life of the major cities. Here are some of the highlights you can see around the continent.

Rio

Rio is known to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world, rich in both culture and natural beauty. The best way to view the city is on foot, ensuring that you don’t miss any detail of this fascinating part of the world. Within the city itself are a number of impressive sights to behold. The Statue of Christ the Redeemer is one such sight, drawing a large number of tourists each year to stand in awe of its magnificent height as it keeps watch over the city below.

Another fantastic spot, ideal for more gentle South America hiking, is Sugar Loaf Mountain, rising straight out of the ocean to a height of 396 metres. This beautiful mountain resembles the natural shape of a giant sugar loaf, and looks quite dramatic over the water. While in Rio, it is definitely worth taking a trip down to its southern zone, where you will find one of the most famous beaches in the world – Copacabana. This beautiful 4km beach is ideal for gentle strolls, and the large promenade which borders the beach is popular too.

Iguaza Falls

One of the most awe-inspiring sites in South America is the Iguaza Falls. Straddling the Paraguayan, Brazilian and Argentinean borders you will find the great tumbling collection of waterfalls – 275 in total stretching over 2 miles. You can stand on the point where all three countries meet, and look into a different country with each turn of your head. For those interested in hiking in South America, the canyon alongside the waterfalls is well equipped for exploring, with plenty of walks and trails.  The canyon was created through water erosion cutting through the earth and forming a fertile and interesting terrain. The falls are surrounded by forests, where you can discover 160 species of birds flitting through the trees, as you trek through the woods.

The Chilean Lake District

One of the most beautiful places for hiking in South America is Chile’s Lake District. The scenery is simply breathtaking here, with snow-capped volcanoes, glistening mountain lakes and larch forest waiting to be explored.

There are a total of twelve major lakes and many smaller one dotted across the landscape, with winding rivers and energetic waterfalls splashing into them. Being a volcanic area, there are also thermal hot springs, making South America trekking relaxing in this spa-like setting. You can climb to the top of the six volcanoes, and if you’re really energetic, Villarica, the tallest volcano, is some 2,847m high. Or you can simply wander round the sparkling lakes marvelling at this unique area.

About the Author

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Operating since 1946, Ramblers Worldwide Holidays now offer over 250 holidays in more than 70 different countries. On a South America trekking with Ramblers you can walk South America’s most scenic landscapes at the best value prices.