The best hiking spot in the world is a debatable topic. For some people, it’s conquering Everest while for others it’s scaling the endless sea of ice and snow of the Jungfrau Mountain Switzerland. For others, it’s the trail at their local valley, three blocks away from home. Still, others might enjoy the freedom of a week-long trek in Yosemite National Park. It all depends on what you want: scenery, something social, isolation, or a challenge. Taking all these into account, we have created a list of eight of our favourite hiking trails around the world.
1- Kokoda Trail
The Kokoda Trail is an arduous trek through the jungle from the north to the south of Papua New Guinea. This 96-kilometre trail is best known for its history during World War II and is often traversed each year on ANZAC Day in memory of the many soldiers who died there. It’s an arduous trek and many hikers don’t make it back without emergency help.
2- Nepal
Nepal is a good idea if you like engaging in culture. Spend some time hiking through the Langtang Valley, which is not far from the Tibetan border, where you can take in the breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The most challenging thing about hiking in Nepal is the altitude. If you’re concerned about the altitude, check out these top tips to prevent altitude sickness.
3- Zion Narrows, Utah, United States
The Utah Desert is home to some of the wildest scenery accessible to hikers. The sandstone constructions are a result of many years’ of erosion. What remains for hikers to explore is a landscape that looks a bit like Mars, with hills that reach thousands of feet into the sky.
4- Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
The tallest peak in Africa is a gentle summit for inexperienced hikers, with natural beauty and gorgeous contrasts in the landscape. The hike can be done in less than a week and offers some trails that lead you up to the highest view point in Africa. From the parched landscape of sub-Saharan Africa to snowy hillsides, hiking Kilimanjaro is the equivalent of seven hikes in one.
5- Mount Huashan Trail, China
Not for the faint hearted or hikers without a few serious hikes under their belt, Huashan Trail winds above open rock faces. Make no mistake; this trail is one of the most dangerous in the world. But the rewards for completing it are surely worth it.
6- Tour de Mont Blanc, France
The gem of the French Alps, Mont Blanc, gives hikers a fresh view from the highest peak in Europe – 15,000 feet. The snow-capped mountains have forgiving trails that are achievable to many hikers. Along the way, you pass glaciers, lakes and green valleys.
7- Inca Trail, Peru
There is a reason that everybody says they want to do the Inca Trail – it is breath taking. The ancient ruins in the lush Peruvian hillsides are like a time machine into a historical era. Because of the trail’s popularity, it is safe and regulated, making it suitable for hikers of all levels. Some tracks lead up to Machu Picchu, giving more hard core hikers a chance to stretch themselves a bit a long the way.
8- Jungfrau Mountain, Switzerland
You can’t go wrong hiking the Jungfrau region in beautiful Switzerland. Wherever you turn you’ll see sign posted routes leading to summits, lakes and valleys. The range of hikes will keep you busy for weeks. From hiking along streams and through flowering alpine meadows, to more challenging valleys for seasoned climbers, Switzerland will amaze. The good thing here is that non-hiking family members can Jungfrau Mountain Switzerland train.