The Best Mountains To Climb In South America: Trekking Guide

If you’ve set your sights on conquering the best mountains to climb in South America – an exhilarating journey that promises breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable challenges awaits. 

South America boasts a number of peaks that cater to climbers of all skill levels, making it a haven when you want an adrenaline-fueled escape.

At Skyhook, we offer exclusive tours to Argentina and Peru, where you can climb mountains that rise high on the continent!

Let's explore the captivating heights of the Andes and beyond!

At a staggering 6,960 metres, Aconcagua stands tall as the highest peak in South America, earning its moniker as the "Roof of the Americas."

Located in the Argentine Andes, this colossal mountain offers a thrilling challenge for seasoned climbers.

It's also provides great mountaineering training for beginners as one of many epic mountains to climb before Everest.

The ascent involves navigating through snowfields and icy slopes, providing a true test of your mountaineering skills. 

Even though this is one of the highest mountains in the world, you can also successfully summit via the Aconcagua normal route if you're a novice climber.

This trail caters to various skill levels for a safe yet adrenaline-pumping experience.

Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the Inca civilization.

Nestled atop the Andes in Peru, it's one of the most iconic mountains of the world. It's a highly sought-after destinations for hikers and history enthusiasts worldwide.

Among the most interesting facts about Machu Picchu is that the archaeological site is believed to have been constructed in the 15th century, serving as a ceremonial site, a military stronghold, or a retreat for Inca royalty. 

One of the most captivating aspects of Machu Picchu is its accessibility through various trekking routes.

The most renowned is the Inca Trail, a four-day hike that takes you through stunning mountain scenery, subtropical jungle, and a series of Inca ruins.

The Salkantay Trek offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience, while the Lares Trek is known for its cultural interactions with local communities.

The best time to hike Machu Picchu is from May to September, during the dry season, for clearer views and safer hiking conditions. 

The weather at Machu Picchu can be unpredictable, with misty mornings that clear up to reveal stunning views of the ruins against the backdrop of lush, green mountains.

The site itself is expansive, featuring famous structures like the Temple of the Sun and the Room of the Three Windows, each offering a glimpse into the Inca's architectural prowess.

Venture into the heart of the Cordillera Blanca in Peru, and you'll discover Huascarán, a mountain that beckons climbers with its majestic allure. 

Standing proudly at 6,768 metres, Huascarán is the highest peak and one of the best mountains to climb in Peru. It is also the third highest summit in South America. 

Its appeal lies not only in its challenging routes but also in the awe-inspiring views of the surrounding glaciers and valleys. 

Prepare for a visual feast as you set your sights on Fitz Roy in the Southern Patagonian Andes. Also known as Cerro Fitz Roy, this granite giant offers a unique challenge for climbers. 

Rising 3,405 metres above sea level, Fitz Roy's steep faces and unpredictable weather conditions demand respect from even the most seasoned mountaineers.

With that said, you'll enjoy breathtaking panoramas, making every arduous step worthwhile.

Ecuador's Cotopaxi is an active stratovolcano with an elevation of 5,897 metres.

It is one of the best mountains to climb in South America, an ascent that involves navigating through snow and ice for a taste of high-altitude adventure. 

What sets Cotopaxi apart is its well-defined cone, creating a postcard-worthy image against the Ecuadorian sky. 

Chile proudly boasts Ojos del Salado, the highest volcano in the world and the second-highest peak in South America. 

Standing at an impressive 6,893 metres, this colossal stratovolcano offers a unique blend of desert landscapes and snow-covered slopes. Climbers are drawn to the challenge of navigating both harsh arid conditions and icy ascents.

Ecuador's Chimborazo holds the distinction of being the farthest point on Earth's surface from the planet's centre. 

This unique geological feature adds a fascinating dimension to the climbing experience, making it a must for adventurous souls.

At 6,263 metres, Chimborazo offers a diverse range of routes, from glacier-covered slopes to rocky ridges. 

Whether you're a novice or an experienced climber, the allure of standing on Earth's closest point to space is an adventure like no other.

Embark on a journey to Venezuela, where Pico Bolívar awaits as the highest peak in the Venezuelan Andes. 

At 4,978 metres, this mountain offers a challenging yet accessible climb when you want a taste of high-altitude excitement, making it one of the easiest mountains to climb in the region.

The ascent involves traversing glaciers and navigating through rocky terrains for a well-rounded climbing experience. 

Nevado Sajama is the highest peak in Bolivia featuring serene beauty and challenging routes. 

It is 6,542 metres high, and a stratovolcano that's less crowded but equally thrilling for an adventure.

You'll navigate high-altitude deserts and icy slopes through the unique blend of terrains.

At the summit, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Bolivian Altiplano.

Patagonia unveils another jewel – Cerro Torre, a granite spire that challenges climbers with its iconic needle-like summit. 

Standing at 3,128 metres, Cerro Torre is your pick when seeking technical rock climbing and ice climbing challenges.

The unpredictable weather adds an extra layer of complexity, making each ascent a true test of skill and determination. 

You can embark on an otherworldly adventure to Mount Roraima, a mesmerising tepui located at the junction of Brazil, Venezuela, and Guyana. 

At 2,810 metres, this table mountain boasts sheer cliffs on all sides, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle as one of many bucket list mountains to climb.

It draws you to the challenge of ascending its vertical walls, unveiling a landscape that inspired Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's "The Lost World." 

Mount Roraima offers a unique climbing experience, combining technical rock climbing with the thrill of discovering a world that seems suspended in the sky.

In the heart of Chilean Patagonia lies the iconic Paine Massif, a granite wonderland that delivers rugged beauty.

The centrepiece of Torres del Paine National Park, this mountain range includes the famous spires of Torres del Paine. 

You'll be captivated by the challenging ascents, including the renowned trek to the base of the towers.

Paine Massif's sheer vertical faces and unpredictable weather create an exhilarating experience for adventurers seeking a taste of Patagonian grandeur.

The stunning vistas of glacial lakes and pristine wilderness make conquering Paine Massif an unforgettable journey!

South America offers a thrilling array of mountains for climbers of all levels, from the towering Aconcagua to the iconic Machu Picchu, majestic Huascarán, challenging Fitz Roy, and beyond.

At Skyhook Adventure, we offer exclusive climbing adventures to Argentina and Peru, unlocking the beauty of these South American peaks.

Embark on an unforgettable journey, conquering heights and embracing the beauty of South America's breathtaking landscapes.