Hiking ~ Chile

The northern end of Chile offers hiking through unique desert terrain, popping with geysers, volcanoes, hidden springs and mountains. The region receives less than 3 inches of rain a year and draws water from deep underground. Ancient cactus that grow only one inch every ten years punctuate the rocky hills. Day hiking through the moonscape and valleys offers vast, endless saltflats to steaming geysers to pampas grass green oasis.

Central Chile in the Lakes Region is an excellent hiking destination. There are hundreds of miles of trails leading to interesting destinations such as natural thermal springs, the snow covered Osorno Volcano, natural swimming pools, and steep canyons, not to mention spectacular views of the mountains and glaciers. A moderate climate makes the Lakes Region a popular destination.

Patagonia in southern Chile is a must see for hikers and trekkers. The famous Cuernos del Paine in Torres del Paine National Park is a mecca for adventurers. If you are in Chile, you must hike Torres del Paine. The park circuit is an excellent 5 day backpacking trek. You may also base yourself out of the Explora Lodge, Hosteria Grey or Hosteria Las Torres and take day treks, all culiminating in a hot shower and cozy bed. Either way will allow you to experience the remote sections of the park and take in all its beauty. Navigate through the icebergs and disembark at the foot of a massive ice wall and watch huge chunks of ice calfving into the lagoon. Plan enough time for Torres del Paine because you'll wish you had more time there.