HIKE THROUGH LESSER-KNOWN LOCATIONS
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sWhilst well-versed travellers are familiar with heralded treks through San Pedro de Atacama or the Torres del Paine National Park, head to Conguillio National Park for something a little different.
A lesser-known area of exceptional natural beauty, hidden within this volcanic region are ancient forests, lakes, lagoons and unprecedented lava fields. Offering a window into a prehistoric yesteryear – it was the filming location for Walking with Dinosaurs – a charred stretch of land blends seamlessly with a canopy of leafy foliage and araucaria trees (known locally as Monkey Puzzle trees due to their curious shape).
Framed by the dramatic silhouette of the looming Llaima Volcano and Sierra Nevada Mountains, saunter along the Sierra Nevada Trail for picturesque trekking highlights including Conguillio Lake. An abundantly rich area for flora and fauna, look out for native species such as Pudu (South American deer), wild cats and the Chilla Fox.
Alternatively, if hiking Atacama and conquering a volcano feature high up on your bucket-list, the Licancabur Volcano awaits. Held in high esteem locally for good reason, this soaring peak sits 5900 metres above the Bolivian/ Chile border. Whilst not for the faint-hearted (or altitude-affected!), the two-day climb to summit here makes for an unforgettable experience beyond the norm. Expect unspoilt views of ancient Inca ruins as well as one of the world's highest crater lakes.