Top 10 Best Hikes in the World

The trail follows the route the ancient Incas took over 650 years ago, and much of the original stonework is still in place. Along the way, you’ll pass through two tunnels created by the Incas, the ancient ruin of Winay wayna, and many waterfalls.

This is a hard hike, usually done in four days in changeable weather. It can be hot and steamy, pouring rain, blazing sun, and occasionally cold. Be prepared for every weather eventuality. This is a popular route, and many hiking companies are available to choose from.

Another highlight, which can be done as an option, is Poon Hill. Most people try to make it to the top for sunrise. From this vantage point, you’ll be able to see eight of the 14 highest mountain peaks in the world. The Annapurna Circuit is a popular hike, and it demands a high level of fitness. The days and distances are long, and coupled with the high elevation, it can be tough going for some. You may want to consider hiring porters for your backpack to make your trip much more enjoyable.

Accommodation along the trail is basic as is the food; however, the wide variety of people from around the world you meet are what make the evenings enjoyable. Another shorter trail that still allows you to see some of the highlights is the Annapurna Panorama Trek. This three- to five-day trek starts from Pokhara and heads up to Ghorepani. Rise early and make your way up Poon Hill for an unforgettable view. Accommodation and food along this stretch are both very good.

The view from the top across the surrounding landscape is spectacular, especially at sunrise when most hikers try to summit. The hike up to the top and back down generally takes about five or six days, depending on your level of fitness and acclimatization rate.

The hike takes 12 to 14 days on average and is high – you will max out at 5,500 meters (18,044 feet). That said, most of the walking is done in the 3,500- to 4,500-meter (11,482 to 4,763 feet) range. The air up here is thin, and any exertion seems twice as hard.

Be aware that you do not see the peak of Mount Everest from Base Camp. You will, however, see it from various points on the trail when other massive mountains are not in the way. The hike is best done from March to May and September to December, when temperatures are moderate, and the skies are clear.

Highlights along the way include Namchee Bazaar, the Everest View Hotel (highest hotel in the world), and the Tengboche Monastery. Accommodation along the trail is basic but comfortable and readily available. This is a well-trodden path, and you can likely find your way on your own or, if you prefer, with one of the many outfitters.

Improvements in the trail and services over the past few years have made the trail more accessible – you no longer need to carry your own gear. The hike generally takes between four and six days, and the main season is December to February. Reservations are required for accommodations and camping (free at CONCAF) within the park.

Weather in Patagonia is erratic and changeable. Be prepared for rain, snow, sun, and, of course, lots of wind.

The first part of the hike is the steepest, where you’ll descend a long series of switchbacks for about an hour before reaching the stream responsible for this incredible gorge. At this point, the trail levels out, and the remaining 13 or so kilometers are a relatively easy stroll. Around halfway through the hike, you’ll come to the most famous place on the trail: a narrow gap where the sheer walls of the gorge are only a few meters apart and 300 meters high.

Eventually, you’ll emerge at the small town of Agia Roumeli. The black sand beach here is perfect for a refreshing swim. After cooling off, grab a snack or a cold drink from one of the many shops nearby while you wait for your boat ride back to civilization.

Cinque Terre Hike, Italy

The best way to walk the Cinque Terre hike is to start at Monterosso and end at Riomaggiore. Take your time and stop for a mid-morning cappuccino and biscotti, follow it up with a bit more walking before you stop for a delightful lunch. Tear yourself away from the view at your lunch spot and walk for a while longer until you feel the need for an afternoon espresso.

If you base yourself in La Spezia, you can walk the trail and then take the train back to your hotel. A daily pass is required to walk the trail, and you can buy it at the ticket booths along the trail. The best deal is to buy a combined train and trail day pass.

Cold, clear alpine lakes; beautiful meadows; glaciers; and towering mountain peaks take their turn amazing you as you stroll along each day. Accommodation is in basic alpine huts or in more comfortable private lodges, both of which need to be booked well in advance.

This area of New Zealand has changeable weather, and it can be very wet. The area gets an astounding nine meters (30 feet) of rain each year.

This trail is 25 kilometers (15.6 miles) long and drops 1,340 meters (4,380 feet) from the south canyon rim to the water’s edge at the Phantom Ranch and Bright Angel Campground. The views along the trail across and down the canyon are spectacular, and many people do portions of the trail as a day hike. The park service recommends going no farther than Indian Springs if this is your plan.

Bright Angel Trail is extremely well maintained and easy to follow, just watch out for the frequent mule trains sharing the route with you. Reservations for the campground and the Phantom Ranch lodge must be made well in advance and need to be confirmed two days prior to your arrival date.

This is a true wilderness experience. Dense rain forest lines one side of the trail, with the deep blue ocean on the other. To say this is an adventure hike might be understating things a bit: plan for wading through fast-flowing rivers, climbing over 100 ladders with your fully loaded backpack, and traversing extensive muddy stretches.

You’ll need to be prepared for every weather eventuality: rain, wind, fog, and hopefully sun. Plan well in advance, and note that trail bookings are required and tend to fill quickly. A shorter three- to five-day option is to start at the Nitinaht Village trailhead, this cuts off a few days but still gives you the West Coast Trail experience.