Walking is, in some senses, the ultimate form of exercise. It’s something that everyone can do, and it’s something that can take you to some of the most beautiful places in the world.
If you’ve walked a few miles in hiking boots, then you might be thinking about conquering one of the world’s more famous and prestigious trails. Let’s take a look at five hikes that are famed around the globe.
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Peru
This Peruvian trail leads to a mountaintop citadel, constructed by the Incas in the 15th century and abandoned less than a hundred years later. Reaching the top on foot requires some physical fitness, but it’s more approachable than many of the world’s famous hiking trails.
On the way, you’ll wander through the famous cloud forests and peer out at breathtaking mountain views. The Peruvian government limits the number of hikers on the trail at any given point. There are a number of different trail options available, so it’s worth researching them before you head out.
Mount Everest, Nepal
Next, we come to what is arguably the most famous hiking trip in the world. If you’re an experienced mountaineer, then you might consider the summit of the world’s highest mountain a worthy challenge to your abilities.
For most hikers, however, Everest Base Camp Treks will be enough. From here, you’ll get spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayas, and you won’t have to be a member of an extremely elite club to make it. The local people, the Sherpas, are largely happy to guide tourists up and down the mountain.
The Kalalau Trail, Kauai, Hawaii
Hawaii is a part of the world that’s associated with sun, sea, and sand—but it's also a mountainous region that’s home to incredible volcanic rock formations and cascading waterfalls.
The Kalalau Trail is among the most challenging anywhere on the islands. To attempt it, you’ll need a special permit, and only sixty of these permits are active on the trail at any one time. During busy spells, it’s worth booking in advance to avoid having to wait.
Hawaii offers a unique ecosystem that’s packed with endangered species—and if you want the best possible opportunity to acquaint yourself with them, the Kalalau is difficult to beat.
Tour du Mont Blanc, Europe
Mont Blanc isn’t anywhere near as massive or untamed as Everest, but it would be a mistake to compare the two. During this classic trip, you’ll find your way through mountain villages in three different Alpine nations: France, Italy, and Switzerland. You’ll encounter glaciers, meadows, and lush, thick forests on your way to the summit. You’ll need a decent level of fitness to complete the trek, however: over ten days, you’ll be ascending ten kilometres (the entire trail is around 170 km from end to end). You can stop off in special refuges along the way, or you can camp.
The Overland Track, Tasmania, Australia
Australia is home to some of the world’s most spectacular and unblemished landscapes. The island of Tasmania holds a unique appeal, thanks to its famous assortment of unique animal species. If you want to see wombats, wallabies, and the notorious Tasmanian Devil, the island’s famous Overland Track is the place to do it. Along the way, you’ll also ascend Cradle Mountain, from where you’ll enjoy amazing views of the surrounding countryside.
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