We don’t have to explain to you restless, roaming spirits out there the adventure that lies in a hiking challenge. Thankfully, this world is chockfull of breathtaking trails, and while some have been well trampled, others are only waiting to be further discovered. So get out your rucksack and hiking boots, we’ve put together 10 of the world’s most dreamy paths for trekking.
Inca Trail, Peru
From the Andes Mountains to Amazon jungle, this four-to-five day journey is a dramatic feast for the senses. Legend has it the 40-some kilometer path was originally blazed by the Incas five centuries ago as a holy pilgrimage into Machu Picchu. There are three overlapping trails: Mollepata, Classic and One Day with the former two reaching an ascent of 4,200 metres above sea level.
Appalachian Trail, USA
This All-American trail routes through a whopping total of 15 states totaling 3,500 kilometres of unadulterated wilderness (and a few cross-overs between towns and rivers, of course). The Appalachian is considered the ultimate challenge of endurance for hikers, with the total trek taking between five and seven months to complete.
Annapurna Circuit, Nepal
Only open to foreigners since the 1980s, the Annapurna Circuit is known for being home to some of the world’s most heavenly paths. It’s a horseshoe shaped teahouse trek winding in and out of Himalayan peaks and passing through historical villages that offer famous hospitality from friendly locals. The Annapurna Circuit has recently gone through heavy construction, which has both its pros and cons: shorter routes which are more catered to commercial luxury travelers and resort-style hikes, but cut out traditional paths that have made the Circuit famous.
West Coast Trail, Canada
This backpacking trail flows through 75 kilometres of diverse terrain, from temperate rainforest to sand-swept beaches, caves and waterfalls. Because of this, it’s considered by some to be the toughest trek in North America and hikers should be prepared for navigating through the backcountry wilderness.
Tour du Mont Blanc, Switzerland, Italy, France
The Tour du Mont Blanc is one the world’s most classic hikes, not to mention the highest peak in Western Europe. It takes 10 days to make your way around the alpine countries of Switzerland, Italy, and France. You’ll be travelling through a variety of backdrops, from meadows and forests to the glaciers and icicles of the breathtaking “Snow Mountain
Everest Base Camp, Nepal
It’s the most famous trail ever and with very good reason. The high-mountain Everest journey is rewarding in scenery alone, but becomes a truly cultural experience because of the villages and monasteries – allowing for a deeply personal look into Sherpa Buddhist culture. It takes around 15 days to hike through Everest, but going slow is well advised in this altitude.
Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia
This mountain is found on the island of Borneo in Malaysia, tucked into the World Heritage Site of Kinabalu Park. Mount Kinabalu is just a slice of a trek compared to some of the others on our list, taking only two to three days to complete. It doesn’t take any mountaineering equipment, only top physical condition for rock-climbing to the summit.
Overland Track, Australia
Knowing how to pitch a tent is essential on this 65-kilometre trek across Tasmania. It definitely takes a well-seasoned outdoorsman to make it across the Overland in five days, but the trail itself isn’t too physically demanding – making it easy to enjoysights like the Waterfall Valley and Lake Windermere.
Paine and Fitz Roy Trek, Argentina, Chile
The Paine and Fitz Roy Trek is the salt of South America, passing through granite peaks, impressive glaciers and beech forests. The most intimate experiences is February and March, when the weather is still mild before the summer crowds set in.
Petra Through The Back Door, Jordan
This desert trail is known for winding through Petra’s most spiritual and historical monuments. Take in such iconic offerings as the Great Temple, Place of Sacrifice and perhaps the most beautiful of all, Al Deir (the Monastery).
