12 of the Best Hikes in South America

"An ancient Tayrona ruin reached after a challenging multi-day jungle trek that begins near Santa Marta; visitors climb roughly 1,200 steps to access the site and explore ruins of which only about 10% are estimated to be unearthed, lending the destination a palpable sense of mystery. Highlights of the seven-day route include swimming in the Buritaca River, guided exploration of the terraces and structures, hummingbirds in the canopy, and sustained daily hikes of four to six hours with a highest elevation just under 4,000 feet; trekkers must carry their own gear or hire pack animals for an additional fee." - Michaela Trimble Michaela Trimble Michaela Trimble is a journalist and photographer based in Mexico City. A Latin America expert for publications like T: The New York Times Magazine, Vogue, and Travel + Leisure, she specializes in covering travel, luxury adventure, culture, food, and drink. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines