Chapada Diamantina, Brazil
Waterfalls, caves and Morro do Pai Inácio, with trails for every level.
Where to stay: Lençóis is the most practical base, with agencies, guides and guesthouses for every budget.
See places to stayHome › Find your next adventure
Let's go hiking: top destinations and where to stay
Waterfalls, plateaus and mountains. For hiking, the right place to stay is the one close to the trailheads and local guides.
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Chapada dos Veadeiros, Brazil
Canyons, waterfalls and savanna landscapes.
Where to stay: Alto Paraíso has more services; the village of São Jorge sits right at the national park entrance.
See places to staySerra dos Órgãos, Brazil
Famous peaks such as Dedo de Deus and the Petrópolis–Teresópolis traverse.
Where to stay: Teresópolis is close to the park headquarters and cheaper than Rio de Janeiro.
See places to stayTorres del Paine, Chile
One of Patagonia's most impressive parks, home to the famous W Trek.
Where to stay: Puerto Natales is the base town, with hostels, hotels and daily transport to the park.
See places to stayTips to pay less
- On long or poorly marked trails, hire a local guide.
- Carry water, snacks and a flashlight, and tell someone your route.
- Choose places with an early breakfast, since hikes usually start first thing in the morning.