The Andes stretch across South America like a giant backbone and some of the most dramatic landscapes on the planet hide here. This list brings together 12 best hikes in Peru, Chile and Argentina that show off colorful valleys, brutal high passes and iconic peaks that will stay with you long after you finish the trail.

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru is probably the most famous one and for good reason. You walk through cloud forest, climb ancient stone stairs and finally reach the Sun Gate at sunrise with the ruins below. Its a bucket list trek for many but the views of Huayna Picchu peak make the effort feel worth every step.

Not far from there the Rainbow Mountain or Vinicunca hike has exploded in popularity. The colorful mineral stripes on the mountain look almost fake in real life. The trail is short but steep and high altitude makes it tough. Go early to avoid the biggest crowds.

In the Sacred Valley the Choquequirao trek offers a quieter alternative to Machu Picchu. Its a multi day adventure with deep canyons and the ruins at the end feel more remote. The dramatic mountain backdrop is constant.

Further south in Chile the Torres del Paine W Trek delivers some of the most jaw dropping scenery in Patagonia. You pass the famous Torres towers, hike to Grey Glacier and cross valleys with turquoise lakes. Wind can be crazy here but the landscapes are worth it.

The Laguna de los Tres hike in Argentina near El Chalten is shorter but stunning. It ends with a perfect view of Mount Fitz Roy towering above the lake. On clear mornings the reflection in the water is pure magic.

One high pass that stands out is the Salkantay Trek in Peru. It goes over a massive mountain pass with views of the Salkantay peak covered in snow. The route eventually reaches Machu Picchu and the changing landscapes from jungle to high mountains feel epic.

In Chile the Valle de la Luna hike in the Atacama Desert shows another side of the Andes. The colorful rock formations and salt flats create a moon like atmosphere especially at sunrise. Its very different from the green valleys further south.

The Colca Canyon in Peru is one of the deepest in the world. Hiking down into it and watching condors soar above is an unforgettable experience. The terraced landscapes and traditional villages along the way add real character.

In Argentina the Fitz Roy Circuit offers a longer and more challenging route. You circle the entire mountain massif and the dramatic granite spires dominate every view. Weather changes fast so patience is needed.

Another Peruvian gem is the Ausangate Trek. This one circles the sacred mountain and passes colorful lakes and high passes over 5000 meters. Fewer tourists mean more peace and the landscapes feel wild and raw.

The Perito Moreno Glacier trek in Argentina lets you get close to the massive ice wall. While not a classic mountain hike the surrounding Andean peaks and the glacier itself create dramatic scenery that is hard to match.

Finally the Huayhuash Circuit in Peru is considered one of the toughest and most beautiful. Over 10 days you cross multiple high passes with constant views of snow capped peaks and alpine lakes. Its remote and demanding but the reward is huge.

These 12 hikes show the incredible variety of the Andes from lush Inca trails to dry desert canyons and wild Patagonian peaks. Altitude sickness is real so take time to acclimatize and always check weather before heading out. Some trails need permits now so plan ahead. But when you finally stand there with the wind in your face and those massive mountains all around, it makes everything else fade away. Pack good layers, bring your sense of adventure and let the Andes surprise you.