10 spectacular hikes to do around the world
Whether you’re an experienced hiker looking for a challenge or a curious novice just starting out, these are the trails that are worth acquiring a new set of blisters.
Scroll though the gallery above to see the world’s 10 best hiking trails.
10. Inca Trail, Peru
One of the most popular hikes in the world (to the point where it’s now becoming overrun by tourists), the Inca Trail covers 40kms of gruelling inclines and declines that put every hiker to the test. But that view of Machu Picchu is worth every blister.
9. Appalachian Trail, USA
Have a spare five to seven months? You’re going to need it if you want to take on the Appalachian Trail! One of the longest continuously market footpaths in the world, the Appalachian Trail winds through 14 states and requires careful planning at each step.
8. Kilimanjaro Trail, Tanzania
There are a range of different routes to tackle Africa’s highest peak, which is fast gaining in popularity with tourists. Treks generally take around a week to complete and offer a spectacular view of Africa from above the clouds when completed.
7. The Snowman Trek, Bhutan
This highly-challenging, high altitude trek can only be completed as part of a guided tours, passing beneath six mountains and crossing nine passes. Unpredictable weather patterns in the high Himalaya make this one of the hardest trails on earth.
6. The Torres del Paine “W” Circuit, Chile
This popular route takes you through the spectacular Torres del Paine National Park on a track that resembles the letter “W”. On this beautiful six day hike you will bear witness to volcanic peaks, glaciers and lakes, with plenty of photo opportunities.
5. Mountains of the Moon, Uganda
“Enchanting” is the word you’d use to describe the scenery on the Mountains of the Moon trek, yet at the same time it barely seems to do it justice. At its highest range you will be 16,000 feet above Africa, with elephants and glaciers in the same place.
4. Tour du Mont Blanc, France, Italy and Switzerland
One of Europe’s premier hikes, Tour du Mont Blanc gives you the opportunity to hike through three different countries, trekking through mountain passes, alpine meadows and glacial valleys at the base of one of the highest mountain in Western Europe.
3. Routeburn Track, New Zealand
While it’s not as busy as the Milford Track, the Routeburn Track offers views that are equally as spectacular without having to deal with the foot traffic. Located on the South Island in Fiordland National Park, it takes around four days to finish.
2. Trek to Petra, Jordan
While it may not be as easily accessible as some of the other options on the list, the Trek to Petra is considered one of the best hikes in the Middle East and takes you through amazing gorges, ridges and rocky terrain, ending in fascinating temples and tombs.
1. Bay of Fires Hike, Tasmania
And of course we couldn’t leave Australia off the list. The Bay of Fires hike in Tassie takes you through endless beaches of white sand, boulders covered in red lichen and past turquoise waters. The scenery alone makes the four day hikes well worth it.
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