Chile is one of the great hiking countries. The trails run from sea level to above 4,000 meters, through deserts, rainforests, and glaciated mountains. Infrastructure varies — Patagonia has well-marked paths and refugios; elsewhere you may be on your own with a GPS track.
Torres del Paine — The W Trek
The most famous trek in South America. Four to five days through three valleys in Torres del Paine National Park, ending at the base of the granite towers. Refugio accommodation available (book months ahead for December-February) or camp. The trail is well-marked and moderate in difficulty — you need fitness but not technical skills.
Torres del Paine — The O Circuit
The full loop around the Paine massif. Seven to nine days, adding the remote backside and the John Gardner Pass with its views over the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. Fewer people, wilder terrain. Camping only on the back section — no refugios.
Volcan Villarrica
Climb an active volcano with a lava lake in its crater. A guided day trip from Pucon — roughly 6-8 hours round trip with crampons and ice axes provided. Strenuous but non-technical. The summit view on a clear day takes in a line of volcanoes stretching south. Tours cancel frequently due to weather and volcanic activity; build flexibility into your schedule.
Valle de la Luna Day Hike
A shorter option in the Atacama. Wind-eroded rock formations, sand dunes, and salt deposits in a landscape that looks more like Mars than earth. Most people visit on a guided sunset tour, but you can hike independently with your own transport. Carry more water than you think you need.
Cerro Castillo
A four-day trek in Aysen, southern Chile — less known than Torres del Paine but increasingly popular. The basalt spires of Cerro Castillo rival the towers of Paine, with a fraction of the foot traffic. The trail passes through lenga forests, past glacial lagoons, and over a high pass with views of the Northern Patagonian Ice Field. Basic campsites only.
Dientes de Navarino
The southernmost trek in the world. Four to five days on Isla Navarino, south of Tierra del Fuego, through sub-Antarctic forest and above the tree line. No marked trail in places — GPS navigation required. Harsh weather, total solitude. For experienced hikers only.
What to Bring
Layering is essential everywhere in Chile. Wind protection matters more than warmth in Patagonia. In the Atacama, sun protection and altitude preparation are the priorities. Trekking poles help on the steeper Patagonian trails. Most gear is available in Santiago and Pucon, though prices are higher than in North America or Europe.