How to Get the Most Out of Your Trip to Machu Picchu?

Hundreds of thousands of people travel to Machu Picchu each and every year, and for good reason! It is considered by many to be the number one highlight in all of South America. With its combination of history, beautiful scenery, wildlife (the llamas!), and mystery, it truly is a magical place.

Here are some tips to prepare you for your trip to Machu Picchu that will help you focus on enjoying yourself.

#1. Plan Ahead & Pack The Right Equipment

It’s always important to have the right clothes & equipment when traveling, but this is especially the case when it comes to Machu Picchu. Whether you plan on doing the Inca Trail hike (or another hike) or taking the train, we always recommend our travelers to bring good walking boots.

It will make your trip a lot more enjoyable! We also always suggest bringing insect repellant. While mosquitos aren’t as common in this region as they are in the Amazon and other tropical locations, it’s always good to keep yourself protected from bug bites.

As for clothing, we recommend everyone to bring layers. Cuzco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu are all relatively high in elevation (between 8,000 feet and 12,000 feet), so it is common for it to be cooler in the mornings and evenings, whereas it can be pretty hot during the day.

So as long as you have layers and a good wind-breaking outer shell, you should be comfortable throughout your Machu Picchu trip!

During the rainy season, from December to March, please be sure to bring a good rain jacket. If you have extra room in your luggage, this may be a good idea for any time of the year given the weather in Peru, but should definitely be prioritized during the wet season.

Beyond the walking shoes and clothes, please keep in mind that Machu Picchu does have some restrictions. Please try to avoid bringing the following:

• Plastic bottles or throw-away recipients (bring a canteen instead)
• Selfie sticks, tripods, or any extensions for cameras or cell phones
• Strollers
• Drones
• Professional cameras (special permit required)
• Walking poles (allowed only if necessary)

#2. Give Your Body Time To Adjust To The High Altitude

Altitude is definitely a factor to consider when traveling to Peru. There are a couple of ways that you can avoid altitude sickness – first by prevention and then by treatment. While it is true that some people are genetically predisposed to the effects, often people do not know how to prevent getting sick.

It is important to not eat too much or drink too much alcohol the night before traveling to high altitudes. These are the main causes outside of genetic predisposition. The other way of prevention is to control how quickly you arrive at higher altitudes.

People commonly have trouble when they are thrown into higher altitudes very abruptly. For example, a flight from sea level to a very high altitude. We encourage our travelers to start in the Sacred Valley, as it is around 2,000 feet lower than Cuzco.

This allows you to acclimate at a lower elevation and lowers the chances of you feeling any discomfort.

If you do feel the effects, there are a lot of ways to treat altitude sickness. Peru, in fact, is exceptionally well prepared to combat the effects of altitude. There are oxygen tanks at many hotels, access to coca tea, and all of the guides are very knowledgeable on the subject to provide you immediate service.

You can also consult your doctor about over the counter medications to bring with you on your trip to Machu Picchu.

#3. Allow For An Extra Day To Fully Take In This Highlight Of Peru

Since Machu Picchu is the ultimate highlight for most of our travelers, we make sure they have plenty of time to explore. We always recommend our clients to stay overnight in Aguas Calientes for one night, which allows for two days of sightseeing in the Machu Picchu ruins.

Schedule for Visiting Machu Picchu:

On Day 1:

You will wake up in the Sacred Valley in the early morning and transfer to the train station. You will then take a train from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu, arriving around 11 am. From there, you will have a guided tour of the ruins, which will last around 2 ½ hours. After your visit, you will be taken back to your hotel in Aguas Calientes, where you will stay overnight.

On Day 2:

You will wake up early to head back to the park. There are hikes that you can do (Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain) in the morning, and then you can revisit the ruins afterward. You would then take an afternoon train back to the Sacred Valley or Cuzco around 4 pm.

The above schedule accomplishes a couple of things. One, it gives you more time to explore Machu Picchu, so you will not feel any disappointment or regret about having too little time in the park. It will also allow you to beat the crowds on Day 2 by going up to ruins early!

While we’ve always recommended the above schedule, we strongly encourage it now due to the new Machu Picchu restrictions allowing for less time at the ruins. Please note that Machu Picchu opens at 6 AM, closes at 5:30 PM, and there are 3 visitor time groups:

• 6 AM – 9 AM
• 9 AM – 12 PM
• 12 PM – 2 PM

The maximum time allowed per visit is 4 hours, so we strongly recommend having an overnight in Aguas Calientes and spending two days in the ruins!

#4. To Hike or Not To Hike?

Some of our travelers think that going to Machu Picchu means four long days of exhausting hikes and there’s no other way to reach the citadel.

While some adventurous spirits choose to hike the Inca Trail or other trails to Machu Picchu, there is an option for all types of travelers – including people in wheelchairs! Here are a few ways to get to Machu Picchu:

• The Vistadome Train – this is probably the most common way for people to travel. The train to Machu Picchu departs multiple times per day from both Cuzco and the Sacred Valley. The glass ceiling train is a wonderful way to experience this journey in comfort and gets you excited for what’s to come!
• The Hiram Bingham Train – is the luxury train option that is available. This also departs from both Cuzco and Sacred Valley, but we would recommend taking the long journey on this train so that you can enjoy every minute!
• Hiking the Inca Trail – this is the most famous trek to Machu Picchu! You can choose the classic 4 days, 3-night version, or the 2 days, 1-night version. Keep in mind that you will stay in tents for a couple of nights and will need to be in good physical fitness to do this hike, but it is an incredibly rewarding experience!
• Taking other Hikes (Salkantay Trek, Lares Valley Trek, etc.) – the Inca Trail is not the only trek that you can take. Some people prefer these other options for flexibility, availability, among other reasons. Don’t overlook these options if you’re looking for an adventure!

Ready for Your Trip to Machu Picchu?

In the end, it all depends on your goals and what you’re looking to get out of the experience. There is no wrong way to get to Machu Picchu and we’ll help you find the right way for you! We hope this advice helps you when getting prepared for your trip to Machu Picchu! If you need help putting together a package, please feel free to contact us, to help you plan the perfect trip!

Entry by Juergen Keller, CEO SouthAmerica.travel | 

After thirty-one years of traveling to and through South America – and now living between Brazil and Argentina, with my many European friends asking me, “Hey, where should I go in South America?” – I decided to write the definitive “Best Places to Visit in South America” entry. It might help many others decide as well.

Admittedly, there are not really “best to visit” countries; rather it is in my opinion places where you must go in South America. Therefore, let me start with my favorite South American places, which from the bottom of my heart, I can recommend seeing.

1. Brazil

I am a bit biased, I must say. I spend most of my time in Brazil. I love its people and the peace-loving history of the country reflected in their spirit. Top of the list is the colorful, culturally diverse heartland of landlocked Minas Gerais state. Tiradentes, Congonhas do Campo, Ouro Preto and not to forget: the breathtaking open-air sensation of Inhotim.

Inhotim

The contrasts could not be bigger: Inhotim, combining a Museum of Modern Art, modern architecture, and modern landscaping – all in one enormous space – contrasting with the colonial gems of the historic towns surrounding it. On top of that, it must be mentioned that the area has the best food in Brazil!

Rio de Janeiro

You’ll likely be flying in- and/or out of Rio de Janeiro, so it’s best to reserve a minimum of 3 nights for “the Marvelous City”. Rio has so much to offer, make sure to see more than just the Corcovado and the Sugar Loaf: the historical city center with lunch in the Palacio Imperial, the “Museum of Tomorrow” in the revitalized port area, Santa Tereza’s Parque das Ruinas and the Botanical Gardens are all not to be missed.

Discovering how this country – bigger than the continental US, and half of the South American continent – got away from the colonial power of Portugal without any war or force, then you’ll understand why Brazilians are such a warm and welcoming people.

Certainly, like any city of Rio’s size petty crime does exist. With minimal precautions however this won’t tarnish your experience as a visitor. Only people looking for trouble – trying to purchase drugs in the favelas, for example – will land you in trouble. I always tell my friends that we would not have lived there so many years if it were a dangerous place.

The Pantanal

The National Park alone is worth a visit, and staying in a Jungle Lodge is no problem either. Do not wait for the Jaguars: these cats are very shy and can perfectly hide in the forest. Animals hiding in the forest? Not in the Brazilian Pantanal! Jaguar watching? Yes! A wet savannah-like flat the size of Texas, surrounded by rainforest, cut by rivers full of fish and occasionally all flooded (Don’t worry, everybody is prepared for when that happens around February!). The perfect hunting ground for all types of animals and birds. The Brazilian caiman, a type of alligator, finds so much food in the rivers that they won’t even bother to look at you. Even horses graze right next to them, not even three feet away.

Then there are the Capivaras, the biggest rodents of the planet, and giant storks… There are perfect Explorer Lodges in the Pantanal, mostly run by ecologically-careful people. Guides are mostly from the area and know all the animals and the right places to see them. Make sure you book an English-speaking guide, for they are locals that learned the language, whereas a German- or French-speaking guide is generally not from the area, with more knowledge of the language than the wildlife. There can be a bit of a trade-off!

2. The Amazon Rainforest

Brazil Amazon Cruise

Recently, for the first time ever, I took advantage of some friends’ request to take an Amazon Cruise, and discovered a new passion. Four days, five nights up the river on a modified Motor Yacht, with only 11 cabins. Being a business owner, the best part was: No internet, no WhatsApp, no news…just nature and animals. The total disconnect. Perfect. Whether on land excursions or just hanging out in my hammock and waiting for dinner, a 100% Zen-Moment!

Peru Amazon

As a bird lover, I also loved the Amazon Rainforest in Peru! The Peruvian Amazon sits at a slightly higher altitude than in Brazil and therefore is less dense, which makes it the perfect spot for birding. Talking about Zen: this being a tropical rainforest, there is always a thunderstorm around midday, lunchtime. After that storm, the jungle is awkwardly quiet: no wind, no animals to hear. That is the moment to climb up the canopy tower of your lodge and watch how the forest reawakens from the storm. All the sudden parrots flying by, in pairs, groups of six or more, green, yellow, then red, flying over this broccoli-like canopy of the green rainforest. Pivot around and you’ll see – in Peru – the white snow-capped mountains of the Andes in the background. And all this just 35 minutes flight from Cusco.

3. Peru

Peru, anyway, is maybe the best place for the first visit to South America, even for the not-so-adventurous. Peruvians working in tourism are all very well educated and professional, the infrastructure, hotels, and services are of the highest level and best of all: not much flying necessary. Aside from the 35-minute flight to the rainforest, an overwhelming amount of sights can be seen around Cusco. Best known of them all: Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, Lake Titicaca, and another of my favorites: Arequipa, the “White City”, and nearby Colca Canyon, with giant Condors circling over your head.

Lima

And then there is the food in Peru! All those ingredients from the mountains infusion with the seafood from the coast. You have never seen bigger and more colorful corn. Or have you seen blue potatoes? Or quinoa: the white, black, and red versions of it? Gotta try it! Food leads me to wine, of course. Peruvian wines have tremendously improved over just the last ten years. But then there is South America’s other gourmet powerhouse: Argentina.

4. Argentina

Buenos Aires

Arguably the best wines of South America or perhaps even of the world! Pair it with a famous Argentine steak, while watching a Tango show in Buenos Aires, the “Paris of the South”. You’ll need to stop there any way on your way to most destinations in Argentina, so take advantage of it, with 3 nights being a minimum!

Mendoza & Patagonia

Then head to the wine-growing region of Mendoza and on to Patagonia. Flying into the airport of El Calafate, where you’ll first visit the glaciers, can connect you easily to the Chilean Patagonia with it’s Torres del Paine National Park. Bariloche in Northern Argentine Patagonia is a heaven for skiers and snow-borders.

Iguazu Falls

For those of you interested more in the warmth of the subtropics, head to the North of Argentina, to the Iguazú Falls (“Iguassu” in Portuguese) You can spend a full day in the National Park, exploring several smaller falls and all the vegetation – and birds – with it. Take a boat ride right under the main thundering falls – you will never forget the experience! The falls and the National Park are shared with Brazil and are therefore the ideal waypoint between the two countries.

Best South America Tours

How to get to all these places? How much time do you have?

Let me outline the best itinerary as a base: Start with Peru! Lima the former Vice Capital of the Spanish Empire, to Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca, followed by the day train over to Cusco/Sacred Valley Machu Picchu…11 nights in Peru.

Fly on to Iguassu Falls – Yes, the Brazilian side of the falls has an international airport – on to Rio de Janeiro, to Minas Gerais with Tiradentes, Congonhas, Ouro Preto, and Inhotim fly to Manaus for the Amazon River a number of nights, say to and fly out from Manaus to Miami and onward to the rest of the world. 23 to 25 days for this conveniently circular route with no backtracking.

If you want to add Argentina with Patagonia between Peru and Iguazú, add a week or so. The above mentioned circular route only minimizes flying. Take into account that these are big countries. It is worthwhile coming again and visiting each individual country for two weeks at a time. Driving, for the most part, shows you landscapes anywhere from great, to awesome, to overwhelming! And driving in South America is no longer a big hassle. Just bring your phone’s navigation app and you are set to rent a car if you wish to do so. I still prefer to have a driver: not too expensive, and more than compensating by knowing where the next radar sits – which is often behind some subtropical vegetation!

Incan Empire Tours & Incan Empire Ruins

Incan Empire Tours & Ruins Vacation packages are the quintessential tour to Peru. With tour stops at Machu Picchu, and with a Cusco City Tour, Lima City Tour, Peru Rail Train Ride, and more, an Inca Ruins Vacation is exactly what you imagine when you picture your dream Tour of Peru.

What are the Inca Ruins?

Over 500 years ago, the Inca people built a civilization in the Andes Mountains of Peru. Located in Southern Peru but with boundaries extending into neighboring Chile, Bolivia, and Ecuador, the Inca Ruins are; the remaining houses, stores, roads, farmhouses, hillsides, geoglyphs, and stone fortresses that remain today.

These ruins contribute to making up the world-famous Inca Trail. Also of course one of the Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu.

Where are the Inca Ruins in Peru?

The Inca Ruins of Peru are located in the Andes Mountains. The Inca Ruins are close to Ollantaytambo, Cusco, & Machu Picchu and are an easy tour stop on any Inca Ruins Vacation.

Ok, I want to take an Inca Ruins Vacation!

That is the best news! We at, SouthAmerica.travel, are the leading Peru Tour Operators in the world! That means we know about the Incan Empire & Ruins better than anyone else. We specialize in fully-custom Incan Empire Tours & Ruins

Here are a few sample routes, maps, and itineraries. Remember, all these routes are fully-customizable and can be tailor-made to your specifications. No matter if you are looking for a luxury Inca vacation or adventure tour to Inca Ruins, we have you covered.

Inca Empire Tour #1: The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Tour

This 4-day / 3-night tour features a Cusco City Tour, Pacaymayo day tours for trekking and hiking, a visit to Machu Picchu, Wayllabamba hiking and trekking, & Winaywayna ruins sightseeing.

All of these destinations feature the best Inca Ruins you can see in Peru. Dates are flexible and the price for tours varies because everything we do is custom. Visit our site and call us today to learn more!

Incan Empire Tour & Ruins #2: Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

This 5-day / 4-night tour of Inca Ruins takes you along the 88-km long Salkantay Trek through the breathtaking Andes Mountains. This tour ends at the world-famous Machu Picchu.

There you will take a day Tour of Machu Picchu, before returning for a Cusco City Tour. This Inca Ruins Vacation requires a lot of physical activity and so it is best for adventure tourists and thrill-seekers.

While it is not particularly difficult hiking, there are long days of trekking to Sayllapata, Soyrococha, Humantay, & Huayanay. This is one of the best Inca Ruins vacations you can take in Peru.

Incan Empire Tour & Ruins # 3: The Essence of Peru Tour

This 15-day / 14-night tour takes you to see all the Highlights of Peru Tour: Cuzco, Machu Picchu, Colca Canyon, Nazca Lines, Arequipa & Lima. Explore Historic Lima, the Ballestas Isles (the ‘Galapagos of Peru’), Nazca Lines, the white city of Arequipa, Lake Titicaca, mystic Cuzco, the Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu:

This is THE classic highlights of southern Peru. Winding up the Andes, this gradual climb allows for easier adaption to the altitude, with each day’s highlights exceeding the last’s.  Embark on a two-week journey to the Land of the Incas, where the remnants of their magnificent civilization continue to capture the imagination.

Starting in the City of Kings, Lima, you’ll learn about the history of the Spanish conquistadors, as well as all the history of the Inca Ruins you could ever wish to know. Journey into the heart of Peru, visiting the Nazca Lines, the beautiful bay of Paracas, Lake Titicaca, and the city in the sky, Machu Picchu.

Liked learning about all the best Inca Ruins Vacation?

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Ready to explore some fun facts about Machu Picchu? Let’s Go! Nestled between the Peruvian Andes and the Amazon Basin, is the mighty Machu Picchu. It’s dramatic setting not only flaunts its mysterious beauty but also keeps the legacy of the Incan civilization alive. Set high above sea level, Machu Picchu is a traveler’s dream destination. Tourists who take a trip to Machu Picchu say it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

For those who haven’t acquired much Machu Picchu information, or simply want to learn some fun facts about Machu Picchu, this blog will help you better understand what makes this archaeological wonder so special. Find out who built Machu Picchu, when Machu Picchu was built, why Machu Picchu is so important, and more. You’ll realize why this ancient site continues to be the highlight of any Peruvian adventure. Read below to discover 20 Machu Picchu fun facts!

1. Where is Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu is high in the cloud forest on the edge of the Peruvian Amazon. Its mountainous terrain is comfortably above the Urubamba River and is only about 50 miles northwest of Cusco – what was once the capital of the Inca Empire.

2. How high is Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu is located more than 7,000 ft (2,430 meters) above sea level!

3. Is Machu Picchu a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

In 1983, Machu Picchu became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And since 2007, Machu Picchu has been recognized as “One of the New Seven Wonders of the World.”

4. What does Machu Picchu mean?

Machu Picchu means “Old Peak” in the native Quechua language. The name is fitting because Machu Picchu is said to be built in the 14th century – sometime around 1450.

5. How are the ruins scattered?

The ruins are spread across a 5-mile distance. More than 3,000 stone steps link its many different levels and there are about 150 buildings ranging from baths and houses to temples and sanctuaries!

6. There is more to Machu Picchu, underground!

Archeologists suggest that 60% of the construction was underground, indicated by deep building foundations and crushed rock for drainage.

7. The stones used for the city are heavy

The stones in the structures weighed approximately 50 pounds, and no wheels were used to transport these rocks up to the mountain!

8. Machu Picchu was one of Peru’s best-kept secrets

The site was once one of Peru’s best-kept secrets. It was only until 1911 when an American archaeologist named Hiram Bingham discovered Machu Picchu. Up until then, only people living in the region knew about Machu Picchu.

9. Are there books about Machu Picchu?

After his discovery, Bingham wrote a book called “The Lost City of the Incas” based on his findings. His book was a hit and spread like wildfire across the world. In time, the beauty of Machu Picchu described by Bingham began to inspire travelers to explore the site via the famous Inca Trail.

10. There’s a special technique to its structure

The stone structures were built with a technique called Ashlar (stones that are cut to fit together without the help of mortar). The terraced fields and the irrigation system of the site are a true testimony to the Incan masons.

11. When was Machu Picchu built?

Many theories exist about the purpose of Machu Picchu. Some believe that Machu Picchu served as a royal estate for Incan emperors while others believe that it was a religious and sacred site. Other theories suggest it was an ancient trade center while others say it was used as a prison. Which theory do you believe?

12. There were farming zones at Machu Picchu

Next up on our list of Machu Picchu Facts is…Archaeologists suggest that the ruins comprise various sections such as a farming zone, a residential area, a royal district, and a sacred area.

13. The Inca’s used a solar clock

The Temple of the Sun and the Intihuatana stone (a sculpted granite rock) functioned as a “solar clock” or calendar for the empire.

14. You can’t find your shadow here

During the two equinoxes, the sun stands directly above the Intihuatana stone, resulting in no shadow. The four sides of the Intihuatana stone represent the 4 directions (North, South, East, and West). It was used as a sundial or as an astrological stone back then.

15. Why did the Inca’s leave Machu Picchu?

The reason for the abandonment of Machu Picchu is still unknown, but the lack of water or an epidemic may have been key factors. However, there are no signs of intervention by the Spanish or German Empire.

16. Machu Picchu artifacts were collected

There was a long dispute between Yale and the Peruvian Government over the artifacts collected by Bingham during his expedition.

17. Machu Picchu survived the Spanish conquest

Most cities built by the Inca civilization were destroyed by the Spanish conquest. Why did Machu Picchu survive? Because of its extraordinary height! The mighty mountain and its stone structures were invisible to the Spanish and hence not destroyed.

18. Machu Picchu survived an earthquake

Machu Picchu is an earthquake survivor! The architecture is so strong that it has survived numerous earthquakes ever since its creation. Peru is an earthquake-prone country.

19. 30% of Machu Picchu has been reconstructed

Over 30% of Machu Picchu has been reconstructed since its rediscovery. ** We didn’t even know this Machu Picchu Fact until we wrote this article.

20. There are still new discoveries to be found

There are many things still to discover! Due to the climatic and geographical conditions such as elevation, fog, and rain, not everything has been discovered. Watch out for a new discovery on your trip to Machu Picchu!

Want To Plan Your Own Dream Machu Picchu Tour?

Contact a travel consultant today to start planning your trip to Machu Picchu.

Best Hikes in South America

Most of us have heard about the Inca Trail (Peru), or the W Trek in Torres del Paine (Chile). These must be the two most famous treks in South America. The Inca Trail is particularly attractive, finding itself on many traveler’s bucket lists. This 4-day hike is often booked to capacity, for months in advance, with energetic hikers and backpackers.

However, there are a lot of alternatives which are less famous but just as beautiful. So if your walking boots are patiently waiting for your next hiking adventure, check out these equally breathtaking and lesser-known trails! Read below for 5 of the Best Hikes in South America:

1. Lares & Salkantay Trek – Peru

If you are looking for something different and less packed, the Salkantay Trek (5-day trek including Machu Picchu) and the Lares Trek (4-day trek including Machu Picchu) are two fantastic options. The Lares Trek remains the more mysterious trail of the two, taking guests on an alternative route through small villages surrounded by amazing landscapes, and ending in Ollantaytambo on the 3rd day. From Ollantaytambo, travelers can take the train to Aguas Calientes to visit the ruins of Machu Picchu. I highly recommend spending at least 2 days in Cuzco at the beginning of this trip to acclimate to the high altitude but it is still certainly one of the Best Hikes in South America.

Travel Tip: This is a fantastic trekking option if the Inca Trail is crowded. Camp throughout the trek and then spend the final night in a charming hotel in Aguas Calientes. Find out more >> Lares Valley Trek

2. Santa Cruz Trek, Peru – One of the Best Hikes in South America

A classic on the list of the 5 Best Hikes in South America. In just 4 days the Santa Cruz trek covers 50km (30 miles). Walkthrough the wild, fertile valleys of the Cordillera Blancas while passing by pristine lakes and snow-capped mountains – an excellent route for nature lovers. Then, hike the trails of Huascaran, the highest mountain in Peru, and then cross the Punta Union path, at 4760 meters (15617 ft) of altitude. The Punta Union path is the highest point on the trek and offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding area. The Santa Cruz trek will leave any traveler craving more for what this area has to offer.

Travel Tip: This trek is ideal for travelers who have plenty of time to explore. Spend your nights camping under the stars! Find out more >> Peru Tours

3. Ciudad Perdida Trek, Colombia – One of the Best Hikes in South America

If you like adventure and discovering magnificent wildlife, this 5-day hike from the Santa Marta region to La Ciudad Perdida (the Lost City) is a must on any Best Hikes in South America list. The Lost City Trek takes hikers through lush jungles, hills, and river valleys in northern Colombia. Throughout your journey, meet with local communities and discover the unique biodiversity of the forest, before finally reaching the most impressive archeological site of the country: The Lost City. While here, admire its bridges, paths, and aqueducts that date back to the 8th and 9th century making it one of the Best Hikes in South America.

Travel Tip: If you enjoy a bit of adventure, nature, and culture, this is the hike for you. Rest in cozy hammocks at night! Visit Colombia

4.Chapada Diamantina National Park – Brazil

If you love to venture off the beaten path to find beautiful scenery, then Chapada Diamantina, located 6-7 hours by bus from Salvador de Bahia, is the best fit for you! You don’t necessarily need to hike to visit this beautiful region, but if you want: many hikes are available for all levels, ranging from 1 day to 8 days in length. One of the most popular hikes is the 5-day hike through the Pati Valley. Walkthrough amazing landscapes, featuring waterfalls and natural pools like Poço Azul, which might be one of the most beautiful hikes in Brazil. Visit Brazil

Travel Tip: For a bit of “off the beaten path” scenery, Chapada Diamantina is the spot for you. Find basic accommodation in bed and breakfasts while you explore the vibrant terrain. Find out more >> Travel Guide to Chapada Diamantina National Park

5. Quilotoa Loop, Ecuador – One of the Best Hikes in South America

If you are visiting Ecuador and would like to visit villages where you can see how the locals live, then Quilotoa Loop is a fantastic option for you! Quilotoa is an old volcano that today hosts a beautiful turquoise lake in its crater, that changes color depending on the sun. The loop consists of 200km (125 miles) of Andean Trails. There are different trek options, ranging from 2 to 6 days, that take you through small Andean villages and markets. The Quilotoa Loop in Ecuador is a must on any list like ours called the 5 Best Hikes in South America.

Travel Tip: If you plan a visit to Ecuador and would like to meet the locals of charming villages, this is the place for you! Find basic accommodation in bed and breakfasts throughout your journey. Visit Ecuador

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Luxury Hiking in South America

Any outdoor enthusiast knows that hiking in South America means visiting beautiful national parks and enjoying incredible views. However, did you know that you don’t have to give up a warm bed and luxurious meals on these outdoor adventures?  If you want to hike in South America without sacrificing comfort, you’ll want to keep reading. Below are our 4 trips featuring the best hiking in South America.

1. Authentic Luxury Trek to Machu Picchu

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Days: 7 days / 6 nights
• Starting point – Cuzco

First on our list of the best hiking in South America is the Luxury Trek to Machu Picchu. Imagine, following in the footsteps of the Incas through the Andes Mountains to the magical Incan ruins of Machu Picchu.  The Andes Mountains are a magnificent place of incredible beauty and what better way to discover the mountains by trekking. Along the journey you may experience a sort of peace and tranquility – when you do, that’s Pachamama, Mother Earth.

In the Andes, you will hike past beautiful mountains and glaciers contrasted by dense jungle and waterfalls.  After a journey such as this, you will arrive at Machu Picchu with a greater sense of accomplishment and a deeper understanding of what it meant to live during the Incan civilization. Along the journey, you may see guanacos, Aymara locals, sheepherders, pristine wildlife and so much more.  Take in the beauty of the Andes and experience nature in its purest form.

2. Luxury Adventure to Machu Picchu

As an alternative to the Inca Trail, we offer a luxurious lodging option, perfect for an outdoor enthusiast that wants extra comfort on the trek. During the day you hike from lodge to lodge and enjoy the comfort and service of top-quality mountain lodges located in the Andes Mountains.

Each night you can enjoy fine dining, massages, spa treatments, and other amenities to make the trek more enjoyable. Experienced guides will be with you along the trek to make sure you have the best experience possible.

3. Torres del Paine (the W Trek), Chile

• • Difficulty – Moderate
  • Duration – 8 days
  • Best time to go – November – April

Torres del Paine has over 1 million acres of incredible scenery and wildlife complete with over 60 miles of hiking trails making this the ultimate destination for any outdoor enthusiast. The glacial lakes, ice-capped peak, guanacos, and Andean grey foxes are just a few of the reasons why nature lovers add this classic Patagonia park to their trip.

There are a few ways to do the W Trek, but if time and weather permit, just hit the main attractions: the Towers, the French Valley, and Glacier Grey. Keep in mind that if you’re traveling outside of the high season, there is a possibility that parts of the W Trek could be closed due to weather.

EcoCamp Patagonia

Ditch the camping and opt for our luxury adventure trip in Torres del Paine National Park with Eco Camp Patagonia. Eco Camp Patagonia takes you on guided day hikes throughout the park to the three highlights: The Towers, Glacier Grey, and the French Valley. Combine beautiful day hikes with delicious meals, fantastic wines, and comfortable accommodations, and you get the perfect luxury adventure tour. 

This adventurous trip is ideal for anyone that wants to experience Torres del Paine and all its glory.  Keep in mind that you can never predict the weather in Patagonia. You can experience all 4 seasons in one day, so come prepared.

Read more about “Glamping” at Patagonia’s EcoCamp. 

Luxury Lodging in Torres del Paine National Park

You have your choice of five-star lodges in the park when on your luxury adventure trips. Since you can do a majority of the hikes in a day, you can stay at a lodge in the park and still manage to complete the Towers Hike, The French Valley, and Glacier Grey hikes.

We recommend the Explora Lodge, Tierra Patagonia, & Hotel Las Torres. Take a look at our Patagonia Lodges online for details.  At these lodges, you will enjoy the finest wines paired with fresh food, luxurious beds, spa treatments, and everything else you’d expect from a five-star hotel.

4. El Chalten & El Calafate

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Days: 4 days / 3 nights
• Best time to go: November – April
• Starting Point: El Calafate

El Chaltén is a small hiker’s towns in Patagonia’s Los Glaciares National Park. El Chaltén is home to the famous Mount Fitz Roy peak. The park feels similar to Torres del Paine since it is in Patagonia, but the glaciers and overall feel is completely different. Also, keep in mind that El  Chaltén is in Argentina, whereas Torres del Paine is in Chile. Here you will see beautiful tidewater glacial lakes, glacier moraines, jagged mountain peaks and Patagonian animals.

Accommodations in El Chalten and El Calafate

We offer a 4-day Patagonia tour with hiking trips to the ever so beautiful Torre Lake and Laguna de Los Tres. Here you will have your very own Patagonia expert tour guide that will take you throughout the park. You’ll be staying in the Hosteria Senderos, perfect for relaxing after a full day of trekking.

Finish this portion of your trip to El Calafate at a four-star hotel; Kau Yatun equipped with jacuzzi tubs and deluxe amenities. Treat yourself to an excellent meal in town after those two full days of hiking.  That’s what we like to call a Luxury Adventure Trip! Check out our Guide to El Calafate for more details. 

More Info on Hiking in South America

Get started planning your dream luxury adventure trip to South America! Click the link below to look at our recommended Adventure Tours or visit us online!