One of the best ways to experience any country is by partaking in a trekking adventure. These trips allow visitors to see the raw, rugged side of a place all whilst immersing themselves in stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re an avid explorer or someone who enjoys a gentle stroll, there are walking holidays for all.
With so many beautiful places to wander, it can be difficult to find the best spot for your next hiking expedition. So, to help get you started we’ve put together a list below of the best places to travel for those who love to get out and explore.
From the mountains of Nepal to the glaciers in Iceland, below are some of the best countries to visit for anyone who treasures being in the great outdoors. Keep reading to learn more about these outstanding parts of the world, alongside some top tips and trails worth checking out during your visit.
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Iceland
Overview
To kick start our list, we have the stunning country of Iceland. Tourists head here throughout the year to witness the breathtaking scenery and dramatic landscapes around the country. From mighty mountains to impressive glaciers and rugged volcanoes, the terrain here is unmatched.
Those choosing Iceland for their next hiking holiday will discover a country brimming with adventure. The cascading waterfalls and towering peaks create the perfect backdrop for all types of outdoor lovers. A trip here is sure to impress even the most experienced of hikers as the variety of trails is neverending.
For somewhere that boasts utter serenity, fantastic viewpoints, diverse terrain and plenty of breathtaking treks, be sure to check out Iceland. Below are some of the best trails in the country, so that you can visit here without missing a thing.
Best Trails
Laugavegur Trail
The Laugavegur trail is renowned for not only being one of the best hikes in Iceland but in the world. This stunning route takes explorers through diverse terrain consisting of volcanoes, glaciers and mountains. It allows visitors to see some of the best landscapes that the country has to offer. From vast lakes to volcanic rock and incredible viewpoints at every twist and turn, this is one trek not to miss!
Mount Esja
For a less challenging route, the gentle hike along Mount Esja is excellent for a range of abilities. The trail allows guests to see some of Iceland’s lovely landscapes in around 2 to 3 hours. As you make your way up the mountain you will find yourself encompassed by other towering peaks, alongside fantastic views over Reykjavik. Be sure to spend some time here when exploring all that the country has to offer.
Glymur
One thing not to miss in Iceland is the waterfalls. The route of Glymur allows hikers to see some of the best cascades that Iceland has to offer. This trail consists of around 3 to 5 hours of walking, with clear paths and a comfortable route. Along the way, you will witness impressive waterfalls, outstanding rivers, intriguing caves and more. For those looking to experience some of Iceland’s most impressive natural features, a walk around Glymur is sure to do the trick!
No matter where you go in Iceland, you’re sure to find a hike here for all. With an excellent network of trails to choose from, there are routes to suit a range of abilities and adventure types. One thing we do know is that this is one country not to miss on your hiking bucket list.
Patagonia
Overview
It probably comes as no surprise that the renowned hiking destination Patagonia is on our list of the top places to travel for walking adventures. The country comprises some of the best landscapes in the world, alongside excellent trekking tours for all to enjoy. For those looking for somewhere off the beaten path, this territory should certainly be on your radar.
If you’re seeking a true adventure, Patagonia boasts some of the wildest terrain and scenery in the world. Stretching from Chile to Argentina, you’re sure to be impressed by all that the trails here have to offer. From changing climates to glacial rivers, dense forests, mighty mountains and more, a trip to Patagonia allows for an unmatched experience.
To help ensure you see the best of what this stunning part of the world has in store, below is a list of some of the most popular hiking routes in Patagonia. Be sure to get these on your itinerary as they don’t want to be missed!
Best Trails
Laguna de Los Tres, Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, Argentina
The Laguna de Los Tres is situated in the Parque Nacional Los Glaciares in Argentina. It is known for being one of the more challenging routes in Patagonia, with plenty of rewarding scenery along the way. Here, hikers can experience stunning Lagunas, rocky climbs up the mountain and exceptional views. This is one of the best trails for those hoping to immerse themselves in the outstanding Patagonian landscapes.
The ‘Circuit’, Chile
Located in the magnificent Torres del Paine National Park in Chile is one of the longer hikes in Patagonia, known as the Circuit. Stretching over 68 miles, the trek is one of the best adventures to enjoy in the area. You will need to spend some time stopping off along the way, allowing between 6 and 10 days for your expedition. Take in impressive mountain ranges and remote, rugged terrain as you go. There are also opportunities to experience lakeside vistas and impressive wildlife throughout. The hike through the Circuit is a true bucket list adventure and one that all explorers should encounter.
You will discover many more hiking trails throughout Patagonia worth exploring. Whether you’re looking to get out on a long expedition, or simply enjoy a gentle stroll in the neverending natural beauty, there is something for all when choosing to trek here.
Peru
Overview
Peru is famous for its fantastic selection of hiking routes throughout the country. There are plenty of walking adventures to be had here, from the renowned Inca Trail to the Machu Picchu mountain climbs. The terrain here is also excellent for those seeking some diversity throughout their trekking holiday. From stunning coastlines to mighty peaks, dense forests, lush greenery and much more, you will find it all in Peru.
The country also has a fascinating history, making it one of the best places to visit for those looking to uncover ancient ruins. So, whether you’re seeking a hike with never-ending beauty and breathtaking scenery, or somewhere to learn more about the culture and heritage, Peru is the place to be!
Best Trails
The Inca Trail
One of the most famous hikes in Peru is undoubtedly the Inca Trail. Comprising ancient ruins and outstanding mountain ranges, this is one walk that is sure to take your breath away. Explore the Machu Picchu ruins that date back to the 15th century or simply spend some time taking in the diverse landscapes and terrains throughout. Whether you’re seeking an expedition over a few days or a shorter hike, you will discover a variety of paths when choosing the Inca Trail in Peru.
Ausangate
The Ausangate trail provides visitors with some of the most unique scenery, known as the Rainbow Mountains of Peru. It is recommended that you take a few days to experience this trek, allowing for plenty of time to stop off and see all of the highlights along the way. There will be multiple encounters with intriguing wildlife such as bobcats, pumas and condors. For those staying in Cusco, it is possible to visit the Rainbow Mountains in one day, however, an early departure is required.
This trip allows guests to see one of the most unusual natural wonders in the world and somewhere that is sure to impress even the most avid of explorers. Whether you’re passing through or stopping here for a longer trip, the routes in Peru won’t disappoint.
Nepal
Overview
Nepal is a favoured hiking destination and is somewhere that all outdoor enthusiasts dream to visit. The level of trekking here is unmatched as it is home to the world’s tallest mountains. A trip to the Himalayas provides tourists with a once-in-a-lifetime experience due to the sheer size and beauty that these peaks radiate.
Tourists often go to Nepal for hiking holidays and some of the best walking tours in the world. During these expeditions, explorers can visit true bucket list destinations such as Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit trek, Gokyo Lakes trek and much more. The variety here is unrivalled, providing hikes for a variety of climbers and outdoor adventurers.
Alongside the spectacular mountain ranges, incredible scenery and dramatic landscapes, Nepal also offers an excellent place for those looking to learn about new cultures and communities. The locals are very friendly and the area is also home to a wealth of fascinating history. We have put together some of the finest routes in Nepal, this way you can visit here with the best spots in mind.
Best Trails
Everest Base Camp
Everest is one of the main draws to Nepal, with many visiting here to tackle the world’s highest mountain. It can take years of training and dedication to climb Mount Everest, which is why so many set out to challenge the peak. Those who want to experience all that the surrounding scenery has to offer can also choose to trek to base camp. This allows hikers to encounter the tranquil aura around the mountain, alongside the breathtaking landscapes along the way.
Partake in an Everest Base Camp expedition that takes just over two weeks to complete. During your trip, you will encounter unmatched destinations and fascinating geological formations. This is a true bucket list destination and one that all outdoor enthusiasts should experience once in their lifetime.
Annapurna Circuit
The Annapurna Circuit is another popular trek in Nepal and one of the most prominent hikes in the Himalayas. This route is ideal for most hikers, with a level of hill walking fitness required. Along this walk, you can take in the incredible mountainous backdrop and pass through quaint villages. You will also wander through the jungle where you can encounter Tibetan landscapes and varying terrains. An excellent route for a range of travellers, the Annapurna Circuit is an ideal way to see more of Nepal’s fascinating scenery.
Kanchenjunga Trek
Located in East Nepal is the Kanchenjunga trek which covers around 220 km of hiking. Here you can travel through the Arun Valley, known for being one of the most beautiful parts of Nepal. A good level of fitness is required for this trek as it is known for being a little strenuous with rugged terrain and rocky parts. Starting in the subtropical area of Taplejung you will venture through dense forests and rolling hills. From here you will approach Chitre where you will witness stunning flora and fauna and fascinating wildlife.
There is so much to see and do along this trek, allowing hikers the perfect insight into Nepal’s fascinating landscapes and breathtaking wilderness. No matter where you choose to explore, an adventure trip to Nepal is perfect for all types of explorers and adventurers.
Summary
After reading this article we hope that you can now visit some of these destinations to enjoy a hiking adventure like no other. With so many fascinating countries to explore, you’ll find yourself stuck for choice when deciphering your next epic voyage. From the mighty peaks in the Himalayas to Peru’s fascinating Rainbow Mountain and Iceland’s impressive glaciers, there is something for everyone when choosing a trekking holiday.
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About the Author
Ella Whitehead
Marketing Executive for SEO Travel, travel writer for Backpacker Boy, passion for content creation and adventure!