Best Treks in the World: The Ultimate Bucket List

Discover top 13 hikes across the continents - from the peaks of Everest to the Ancient paths of the Inca Trail - and take your next trek to a whole new level.
Liens rapides
Blog Published March 15, 2024
Edited May 6, 2024

Dreaming of your next great adventure? Dive into our blog, showcasing the world’s most stunning hiking trails from every continent and suitable for adventurers of all levels.

From the majestic peaks of the Himalayas to the wild, untamed beauty of Patagonia, our guide spans the globe to bring you a collection of treks that promise more than just a walk.

Each trail is detailed with essential information, including length, estimated time to completion, and difficulty levels, ensuring you can find a journey that matches your experience and expectations. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or just lacing up your boots for the first time, our blog presents a diverse range of hikes, each with its unique charm.

It’s time to shake off the dust from your hiking boots and venture into the extraordinary. 

EUROPE

Tour du Mont Blanc, France/Italy/Switzerland

Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 170 km
Time to Finish: 10 to 12 days

The Tour du Mont Blanc is the ultimate Alpine trek, circling Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe. This adventure spans across France, Italy, and Switzerland over 7 to 11 days, covering 170 km of spectacular scenery. It reveals a stunning panorama of glaciers, alpine meadows, and quaint villages, capturing the essence of the Alps.

Suitable for a range of hiking abilities with moderate to challenging terrains, it offers the support of cozy huts along the path. This trek not only allows adventurers to experience the diversity and beauty of the Alpine landscape but also to immerse themselves in the unique cultures of three countries, all within the shadow of Western Europe’s towering giant. 

Scenic view of Mont Blanc massif seen from Le Brevent, Aiguille Rouges nature reserve and part of Tour de Mont Blanc, Chamonic, French Alps, Haute Savoie, France. Hiker on the route.
Scenic view of Mont Blanc massif capturing the essence of the Alps

Laugavegur Trail, Iceland

Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 55 km
Time to Finish: 4 to 5 days

The Laugavegur Trail in Iceland is a mesmerizing trek through some of the most unique landscapes on Earth. Spanning 55 km and typically completed in 4 to 5 days, this trail takes hikers from the geothermal wonders of Landmannalaugar to the verdant valleys of Þórsmörk.

Hiking in the incredible wild landscape in Iceland
The stunning landscapes from the Laugavegur Trail in Iceland

Along the way, adventurers have a chance to encounter Iceland’s raw, volcanic beauty, steaming hot springs, multi-colored rhyolite mountains, vast black sand deserts, and majestic glaciers.

Moderate in difficulty, the Laugavegur Trail offers well-equipped huts, making it accessible to those with a reasonable level of fitness. 

Camino de Santiago, Spain

Difficulty: Moderate (varies by route)

Length: 825 kilometers for the Camino Francés

Time to Finish: 30 to 35 days for the Camino Francés

The Camino de Santiago is a legendary pilgrimage route leading to the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral in Galicia, where Saint James is said to be buried. Among its pathways, the Camino Francés is the most popular, weaving through stunning landscapes and rich cultural sites. However, there are many other routes, each offering its own unique journey.

Walking the Camino offers many opportunities to explore ancient towns, majestic cathedrals, and historic monuments. 

This ancient network of trails is renowned not just for its scenic beauty but also for the profound sense of community it fosters among its hikers from all corners of the globe. This collective spirit of support and friendship enriches the journey, making every step towards Santiago de Compostela a shared adventure and a celebration of human connection.

With multiple routes and starting points, the Camino is accessible to hikers of all levels. The well-marked paths and availability of accommodations and services along the way make it possible for anyone with determination to undertake this remarkable journey.

The yellow scallop shell signing the way to santiago de compostela on the st james pilgrimage route
The yellow scallop shell showing the way to Santiago de Compostela on the St. James pilgrimage route

ASIA

Everest Base Camp Trek, Nepal

Difficulty: Difficult

Length: 130 km

Time to Finish: 12 to 14 days

The Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal is an epic journey that leads you through the heart of the Nepalese Himalayas, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stand at the foot of the world’s highest peak. The adventure starts in Lukla, passing through Namche Bazaar and Tengboche Monastery, reaching Everest Base Camp.

This trek unfolds across rugged trails, past ancient monasteries, and through vibrant Sherpa villages, immersing you in the rich culture of the Khumbu region. For an extra adventure you can also take a detour to the picturesque Gokyo Lakes.

Along the route, you get to enjoy views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam. This trek promises an unforgettable experience through some of the world’s most stunning landscapes.

Mount Everest base camp, tents, Khumbu glacier and mountains, sagarmatha national park, trek to Everest base camp
Standing at the foot of the world’s highest peak

Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Nepal

Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Length: 115 km
Time to Finish: 7 to 12 days

Another gem in the Himalayas, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Nepal is a mesmerizing journey through the heart of the Annapurna Massif, one of the world’s most spectacular mountain ranges. This trek guides you to the Annapurna Sanctuary, a natural amphitheater encircled by the towering peaks of the Annapurna range, including the formidable Annapurna I, standing as the 10th highest mountain in the world

Through lush rhododendron forests, charming Gurung villages, and serene alpine meadows, trekkers reach the base camp of the majestic Annapurna peaks. Along the path, breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant landscapes unfold.

Offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and Himalayan adventure, this trek reveals the dramatic contrasts and the immense beauty of the Nepalese wilderness.

Annapurna Base Camp trekking
Hiking through the heart of the Himalayan wilderness towards the Annapurna Base Camp

SOUTH AMERICA

The Torres del Paine Circuit, Chile

Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous

Length: 130 km

Time to Finish: 8 to 10 days

The Torres del Paine Circuit in Chile stands out as one of Patagonia’s premier treks, known for its breathtaking journey through Torres del Paine National Park. Hikers on this adventure are treated to an incredible array of views, from towering peaks to vibrant turquoise lakes, and expansive glaciers.

This trek is distinguished by a dramatic mix of terrains, leading adventurers through dense forests, across barren mountain passes, and beside serene lakes, offering a genuine wilderness experience. 

One of the most intriguing aspects of this trek is the possibility of experiencing the full spectrum of four seasons in a single day, adding a thrilling unpredictability to the journey.

Despite the changing weather conditions, the availability of basic campsites and refugios along the route ensures it remains accessible to adventurers with varying levels of experience. 

W-Circuit Torres Del Paine, Chile
The towering peaks and serene lakes of the Torres del Paine Circuit offer a breathtaking panorama of Patagonia’s untouched beauty

Fitz Roy Trek, Argentina

Difficulty: Moderate
Length: Approximately 26 km for the classic Laguna de los Tres route
Time to Finish: 1 to 2 days for the classic route; longer for extended treks

The trek to Mount Fitz Roy in Argentine Patagonia is an essential journey for outdoor enthusiasts, captivating with its dramatic and iconic skyline dominated by the jagged peaks of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre.

Starting from the town of El Chaltén, this trail offers stunning views of the iconic jagged peaks of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre, as well as pristine lakes and valleys.

With its dramatic landscapes and challenging terrain, the Fitz Roy trek is sure to leave a lasting impression on hikers.

Woman admiring Fitz Roy scenic view
On the Fitz Roy Trek, every step brings a new perspective of Patagonia’s famed peaks

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Peru

Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous

Length: 42 km

Time to Finish: 4 days

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is an iconic trek through the Andes Mountains, weaving past ancient ruins and lush cloud forests. Renowned as one of the world’s premier trekking routes, the Inca Trail is celebrated not only for its stunning natural beauty but also for its rich historical significance.

The meticulously engineered paths were built by the Incas hundreds of years ago, serving both as a testament to their advanced engineering skills and a spiritual journey culminating at Machu Picchu.

This ancient city, perched high in the mountains, is a marvel of architectural and historical significance, often referred to as the “Lost City of the Incas.” 

Lama And Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu, a jewel of Incan architecture, emerges from the mist, marking the Inca Trail’s breathtaking finale in the heart of the Andes

NORTH AMERICA

John Muir Trail, United States

Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous

Length: 340 km

Time to Finish: 3 to 4 weeks

The John Muir Trail is a 340-kilometer trek that winds through California’s Sierra Nevada mountain range, offering hikers breathtaking views of granite peaks, alpine lakes, and lush meadows. This iconic trail starts in Yosemite Valley and ends at the summit of Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States.

Prepare for your breath to be taken away, as the trek traverses some of the most pristine wilderness areas in the country, including Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.

Nevada Falls, John Muir Trail
Taking a moment to capture the serene beauty of the Sierra Nevada and the breathtaking scenery of peaks and majestic waterfalls

Skyline Trail, Canada

Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 44 km
Time to Finish: 2 to 3 days

The Skyline Trail is a classic trek that captivates hikers with its journey through the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, revealing panoramic views of jagged peaks, alpine meadows, and turquoise lakes. Spanning approximately 44 kilometers from Maligne Lake to the Signal Mountain trailhead, this multi-day adventure traverses breathtaking terrain.

A pivotal highlight of the trail is the ascent through the iconic alpine ridgeline known as The Notch, the highest point on the trail, offering hikers a challenging climb that rewards with unmatched 360-degree vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. 

Skyline trail, in Cape Breton Highlands National Park
Along the Skyline Trail, every step offers a view closer to the sky, framing Canada’s majestic landscapes

AFRICA

Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Length: Approximately 60 km (varies by route)
Time to Finish: 5 to 9 days

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania is an epic journey that takes adventurers across five distinct ecological zones. On the trail, you will witness from rainforest to alpine desert, up to the snow-capped summit.

Standing at 5,895 meters, it’s Africa’s highest peak and one of the world’s most accessible high-altitude treks. The hike requires no technical climbing skills. Over 5 to 9 days, climbers experience dramatic changes in landscape and climate, and get to experience standing atop the “Roof of Africa.” 

Camping on mount Kilimanjaro in tents to see the glaciers in Tanzania, Africa
Camping close to the Roof of Africa offers a unique experience by itself

Otter Trail, South Africa

Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 45 km
Time to Finish: 5 days

The Otter Trail, nestled along South Africa’s scenic Garden Route, is a spectacular 5-day trek that stretches over 45 kilometers of coastal beauty. This trail takes hikers through lush forests, across clear streams, and along rugged shorelines, offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean.

Renowned for its challenging yet rewarding terrain, it features steep climbs and descents, with overnight stops in basic but comfortable huts. Along the way, trekkers can enjoy the astonishing biodiversity, including a variety of bird species, marine life, and the iconic fynbos vegetation.

View back at the start point of the Otter Trail at Tsitsikamma National Park in South Africa, with big rock formations, blue sky with some clouds
The majestic entrance to the Otter Trail in Tsitsikamma National Park

OCEANIA

The Overland Track, Tasmania, Australia

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 65 km

Time to Finish: 6 days

The Overland Track in Tasmania, Australia, is a premier 65-kilometer hiking trail through World Heritage-listed wilderness. Starting at Cradle Mountain and ending at Lake St Clair, it traverses diverse landscapes including rainforests, alpine moors, and glacial lakes.

Highlights include iconic landmarks such as Barn Bluff and Mt. Ossa. With basic huts and campsites available, it offers a challenging yet accessible adventure for hikers seeking to immerse themselves in Tasmania’s pristine natural beauty.

A lady traveler with Cradle Mountain in the background.
Unforgettable journey through Tasmania’s rugged paradise along The Overland Track

Milford Track, New Zealand

Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 53 km
Time to Finish: 4 days

Known as the “finest walk in the world,” the Milford Track is a world-renowned trek that takes hikers through the heart of New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park. This 53-kilometer trek begins at the head of Lake Te Anau and ends at Milford Sound. It offers stunning views of cascading waterfalls, towering peaks, and pristine fiords along the way.

Highlights of the trail include the majestic Mackinnon Pass, the tranquil Clinton Valley, and the iconic Sutherland Falls. As one of the world’s tallest and most majestic waterfalls, Sutherland Falls is a breathtaking sight that cascades in three mighty leaps from a height of 580 meters into the valley below.

Amazing aerial view of mountain Lake Quill and Sutherland Falls on the scenic flight from Milford Sound to Queenstown, Fiordland, New Zealand
Cascading waters of world’s tallest and most majestic waterfalls, Sutherland Falls, in the heart of New Zealand’s Fiordland

From the majestic Everest Base Camp, where the giants of the earth reach for the skies, to the sacred paths of the Inca Trail, steeped in history and mystery, each step on these treks is a testament to the beauty and resilience of both nature and the human spirit.

Imagine the stories waiting to be discovered, the friendships waiting to be made, and the personal boundaries waiting to be pushed.

So, dare to dream, to explore, and to challenge yourself. The world’s greatest treks await, promising the adventure of a lifetime and memories that will echo in your heart long after the journey ends.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Where will your next step take you?

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