On top of the world in Chile's great outdoors

The outdoors are so great in Chile that simply lacing up your boots and exploring the landscape on foot is one of the best things you can do here.

There are opportunities to do so almost everywhere and each national park offers sign-posted routes suitable for most fitness levels.

Some of the most challenging hikes, but perhaps the country's finest, are to be found in Patagonia's Torres del Paine National Park. Of the 250km of trails in the park, 'El Circuito' is a favourite, taking around five or six days to complete with 30km the longest stretch. The route follows lakes, valleys and glaciers and offers stunning views. The increasing popularity of the trail means booking ahead at the refugios (hostels) is highly advisable.