13 Ultimate Hiking Destinations Worldwide
From first-time hikes to rigorous treks, hiking trails worldwide allow you to come closer to nature, culture, and yourself. Hiking is the most tactical way to combine physical endurance and awe-inspiring discovery, from the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to Iceland’s volcanic geysers.
Never was hiking more popular. Over the past few decades, hikers have exploded globally as more people seek to unplug and reconnect with the great outdoors via multi-day treks. According to Statista, more than 61 million people in the United States participated in hiking activities at least once in 2023.
This modern desire for experiences over material things is fuelling a resurgence, and travelers are increasingly looking to get outside, get rugged, and get challenged. Combine this shift with social media and post-pandemic urgency to get into the outdoors, and it’s easy to see why these hiking trails constantly get worldwide attention. Here are 13 ultimate hiking destinations worldwide and why these trails should be listed on your travel itinerary.
Annapurna Circuit, Nepal
The Annapurna Circuit—the crown jewel of Himalayan treks—covers about 160 to 230 kilometers and can take 12 to 21 days of hiking.
“It’s not just a physical challenge but a cultural immersion. Sharing stories in tea houses or gazing at Buddhist prayer flags fluttering beneath crystal clear skies is the journey each village you pass lends to the heart of Nepal,” said trekking guide Lakpa S.
Inca Trail, Peru
The 33 km trail to Machu Picchu is steeped in history, making it a global icon among historical treks. Over four or five days, hikers follow the trail through cloud forests, ancient ruins, and incredible Andean vistas before taking in the world-famous spot called The Sun Gate across from Machu Picchu.
Did You Know? The archaeologists estimate that ancestral Incas used the trail as a religious pilgrimage route to the sacred Machu Picchu. Due to the delicate ecosystem, only 200 hikers can be on the path at any given time, which has only increased the path’s allure and exclusivity.
Tour du Mont Blanc, France/Switzerland/Italy
This 175-kilometer trail circles the magnificent Mont Blanc Massif through the cultural richness of three countries. Each day on this 11-day traverse is unique—from decadent Swiss fondue to fields of wildflowers and glacier peaks, it is truly a rewarding journey.
Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), USA
The Pacific Crest Trail, stretching 4,265 kilometers from Mexico to Canada, runs through some of the US’s most diverse ecosystems.
Completing the whole thing is ambitious—usually a journey of 4-6 months—but the High Sierra in California or Oregon’s Cascade Range offers more reasonable and breathtaking alternatives.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand
Described by many as one of the most incredible day hikes in the world, this 19.4km trek wanders through astonishing volcanic landscapes. Marvel at the Emerald Lakes, Red Crater, and steaming geothermal vents, all framed against the block-buster backdrop that is New Zealand’s North Island.
Fun Fact: The volcanoes became famous worldwide when they appeared as Mount Doom in The Lord of the Rings movies!
Laugavegur Trail, Iceland
The Laugavegur Trail, 55 kilometers of painted rhyolite mountains, black volcanic deserts, and steaming hot springs, is Iceland’s otherworldly scene.
The Icelandic tourism board recently implemented measures to officially limit footfall on the Laugavegur trail daily to preserve its unique biodiversity and avoid commonly faced issues with overcrowding.
Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Summiting Africa’s tallest peak at 5,895 meters, Kilimanjaro is a worldwide achievement cherished by hikers. Although trekking Kilimanjaro requires no technical climbing skills, the climber must be physically fit, adequately prepare for altitude, and be sensible in his or her ascent.
Fun Fact: Around 30,000 trekkers try to conquer Kilimanjaro each year, and all but one of its routes crosses five distinct climate zones, each with its obstacles.
Kungsleden (The King’s Trail), Sweden
Running 440 kilometers through Swedish Lapland, the Kungsleden features some of the Arctic’s most pristine landscapes, galloping reindeer, and rare Northern Lights (in late August).
Did You Know? The Abisko to Nikkaluokta segment (about 105 kilometers) is a better solution for many hikers; it can be completed in 6 – 10 days.
Cinque Terre, Italy
Cinque Terre Trail is a dream for anyone who prefers a coastal view over mountains! The 11-kilometer-long trail connects five UNESCO-listed villages on the Ligurian coastline, inviting you to biking, not just hiking, and enjoying food and wine, seafood, and culture.
Like travel trends, we see an increase in sustainable tourism, with visitors being encouraged to use eco-friendly shuttles to reduce traffic within these quaint villages.
Torres Del Paine Circuit, Chile
The “W” Trek (55 km) in Patagonia takes 4-5 days and is located in beautiful jagged mountains, bright blue glaciers, and serene lakes. The star of the show? The linteral towers of granite that made Torres Del Paine renowned.
This area comprises Chile’s long-term conservation program, which includes more than 10 million acres of protected land.
Everest Base Camp Trek, Nepal
Journeying through the Khumbu Valley to the base of the world’s tallest peak offers cultural interactions with the Sherpa community and Himalayan vistas to rival any postcard.
Fun Fact: The trek does not top out on Everest; its high point climatically is Kala Patthar (5,550 meters), which provides heavenly views of Everest in golden orange.
West Highland Way, Scotland
Stretching 154 kilometers across Scotland’s Highlands, the most famous of Scotland’s trails skirts through serene lochs, dramatic mountain passes, and remnants of ancient forts.
The trail is completed in about 6–8 days and is very popular because, especially in those days, it’s not very accessible, but its rugged beauty has a draw.
Great Ocean Walk, Australia
This hike lies along Australia’s southeastern coast and stretches 68 miles (110 kilometers) through eucalyptus forests and up and down rugged, dramatic cliffs with stunning sea views. The highlight? Natural limestone stacks dramatically rise out of the ocean, the Twelve Apostles.
Fun Fact: This hike has recently become one of the most photographed coastal hikes on Instagram, thanks to a recent influx of young hikers (aged 18-30), making it very popular.
Hiking allows us to reconnect with the primal simplicity of walking while enabling us to enjoy extraordinary vistas and lifelong memories simultaneously. Not only do the world’s trails whisper with wind and wildlife, but they also whisper with stories of the people who activate those trails.
Don’t wait if these 13 destinations have you dreaming of your next adventure. Today, research, plan, and leap; nature’s wonders are waiting.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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