Best Hikes In The World

I would not say I am a very fit person; I am probably rather comfortable. but if there is something that I enjoy and requires a good level of fitness is hiking. In fact, I now try to involve a bit of hiking in every of my holidays because I believe the most wonderful landscapes can only by accessed by foot.

Here is a list of many lists where I compiled the most desirable and amazing hikes around the world. I have only really completed a portion of one but is on my list to complete at least some of them in my lifetime. If I can do them, you can most definitely can! Get on the tracks and enjoy mother nature at its best!

1. Mount Kilimanjaro

Where: Tanzania, Africa

When: Best in January, February, July - October (dry season)

How long: 7+ days covering 50Km

The most popular route is the Machame Route with the starting point at 1650m and reaching 5900m on day 6, to descend all the way on day 7. It is considered the tallest walkable mountain as it can be climbed without technical mountaineering skills although a minimum level of fitness is always recommended. Most people travel with a guided tour to reach the summit and surrender to its spectacular views. It is really high on my bucket list!

2. Inka Trail

Where: Peru, South America

When: Best in May & October

How long: 4 days covering 45Km

Trekking across ruins, jungle, amazing mountain landscapes with a rewarding end of trip at Machu Picchu, no doubt this is one of the most popular hikes in the world. In 2014 I visited Machu Picchu but unfortunately did not hike the Inka Trail as we had little time and wanted to spend some days in the Amazon, but I wished I had and from friend’s recommendation I can assure is 100% rewarding.

3. Everest Base Camp Trek

Where: Nepal, Asia

When: Best in March to May & September to October

How long: 14 days covering 65Km

If you want to get a glimpse of the highest peak on Earth, add this trek to your bucket list. You will experience a mix of landscape fascination and Sherpa culture. Guides are not yet compulsory but it is highly recommended for your safety and as a gesture of good faith to support the Nepalese economy. An average fitness level is required

4. Torres del Paine "W" circuit

Where: Patagonia, Chile

When: Best in March to May & September to October

How long: 5 days covering 100Km

Patagonia is a vast region occupying the Mid-South and South of both Chile and Argentina. It holds the biggest reserve of fresh water in the world and is home to hundreds of species and breathtaking sceneries, a blend of glaciers, mountains and pampa. I am lucky enough to have visited Torres del Paine National Park and it is indeed an unmissable place, even more if you have the chance to take on the trek that will bring you to the famous 3 towers. There 'W circuit' is the "short" option but there is an 8 days 'O circuit' that encompasses the W circuit.

5. Fitz Roy Trek

Where: Patagonia, Argentina

When: Best in March to May & September to October

How long: 1-5 days (many options available) up to 60Km

There are many trek options in El Chalten, many ranging between 7h to 9h long treks. We hiked the most popular trail to Laguna de los Tres which is 22Km long (click here to read more about my experience) and culminates at a stunning 360 view of the Cerros at the shore of a lake. However, if you are more adventurer you can take on a multi-day trek including camping at Los Glaciares National Park.

6. Camino de Santiago (The Way of St. James)

Where: Spain

When: Anytime, best in March

How long: 2 months covering 770Km (one way)

One of the best known long treks in the world. It starts in Roncesvalles (Pyrenees) and ends at Santiago de Compostela, following the old pilgrimage routes to the Cathedral, where the remains of St James discovered in the ninth century, rest in peace. The route was very popular amongst pilgrims wanting to honour St James during the 10th, 11th and 12th century, then it declined in popularity until it was written about it in the 1970's. You can join the trail at different points and make the hike as long as you like. Many "pilgrims" are unable to take time to do it all at once so they come back to join different stages at some point. There are guesthouses along the way and you can do it comfortably on your own without guidance although it requires previous planning. The trail traverses many northern towns and parts of Castile with an immense cultural and historic heritage.

You can also do the Camino by bike and complete the whole trail in 16 days.

7. Kalalau Trail

Where: Kauai, Hawaii, United States

When: Best in May & October

How long: 2 day covering 18Km (one way)

If you feel intrepid and fancy ending your hike in a beautiful beach, Kalalau Trail is for you. Known as one of the most beautiful but dangerous hikes in the world, the trail will take along the coast and through jungle and waterfalls. At its completion you are rewarded with access to the secluded Kalalalu Beach, which only access is this trail.

8. Tour du Mount Blanc

Where: Switzerland, Italy & France

When: Best in June-September

How long: 11 days covering 170Km

The most popular trek in Europe comes to no surprise. It passes through three countries and encompasses the Mont Blanc Massif through glacial valleys and alpine meadows. There is plenty of accommodation options along the way to allow you to hike with a light pack and the possibility of vehicle support, so you can enjoy the scenery at a relaxing pace. It is also a perfect option for the photographer lovers.

If you are more of an experienced hiker and want more freedom, it is completely possible to it self-sufficiently and carry all your food and camping gear.

9. Scottish National Trail

Where: Scotland

When: Best in April and May

How long: 5-6 weeks covering 870Km

A very long trek that will take you across the whole length of the scenic Scottish land. If you are short in time, the trail can be split to suit your schedule with different sections that become more challenging as you venture into the wild Highland landscapes.

10. Trek to Petra

Where: Jordan, Middle-East

When: Best in October to April

How long: 5 days covering 80Km

If you want to experience more than the already stunning Petra and Wadi Rum, why not hike through ridges, gorges and sculpted sandstone formations. The trail ends at the majestic temples and tombs of Petra which is a wonderful encouragement!

11. Appalachian Trail

Where: United States

When: All year round

How long: 5-7 months

Stretching from Georgia to Maine across 14 states, the 3,500Km of the Appalachian Trail are a lifetime trip of its own. It is one of the longest continuously marked trails in the world and requires thorough planning and experience to do it all at once.

12. Sentiero Azzurro

Where: Italy

When: Best in March to October

How long: Varies

The Sentiero Azzuro "Blue Trail" in Italian is located at the Cinque Terre National Park and connects the villages of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare. The trail extends 12Km along an spectacular rocky coastline and beautiful seaside towns. A delight and an easy option for all the family.

13. The Narrows

Where: United States

When: Best in April to October

How long: 1-2days covering 25Km

Is the narrowest part of the Zion Canyon and it is located in the Zion National Park, Utah. The trail follows the Virgin River for 25Km, slicing through the breathtaking sandstone canyon. The river covers the bottom in many spots and so you will get wet or even have to swim to get through making it a great hike option for the hot summer months.

14. Tongariro Northern Circuit

Where: New Zealand

When: Best in December to March (summer in the southern hemisphere)

How long: 3-4 days covering 45Km

This great hike will take you around Mount Ngauruhoe, New Zealand's most active volcano. Another great appeal to embark on this trek are the scenic Emerald Lakes as well the craters and lava pits. Prepare to walk an average of 8 hours per day and pack smart to handle the highly unpredictable kiwi weather and of course, enjoy.

15. Laugavegurinn/Fimmvörðuháls Pass

Where: Iceland

When: Best in June to September (summer)

How long: 4 days covering 55Km

This trail takes you from the hot springs of Landmannalaugar to the glacial valley of Þórsmörk in South-West Iceland. Is a very popular trek, hiked by many during mid-summer under the light of the midnight sun. As a remark on this trip, you will encounter the lava fields of Eyjafjallajökull volcanic eruption in 2010. I had the chance to visit the surroundings of the volcano dogsledding with Greenlandic dogs in 2015 (click here to see pictures).

Other than volcanic landscapes, you will traverse otherworldly views of lichen-covered rocks and waterfalls, something out of a Game of Thrones scene. The famous Skogafoss waterfall can also be reached by foot if you add another extra kilometres to the trek.

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