The Best 15 Hiking Destinations in the World
If you’ve read our the best hiking tips for beginners 101 article, are you ready to discover the 15 best hiking destinations in the world?
If you’re an adventure lover looking to explore the great outdoors, you’re in for a treat! The world is full of breathtaking landscapes, from towering peaks to lush rainforests, and the best way to experience them is by trekking through some of the most beautiful hiking trails. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just getting started, the best 15 hiking destinations in the world will take your breath away.
If you love adventure and relaxation in equal measure, imagine this: trekking through the stunning Swiss Alps, gazing at turquoise lakes in Banff, or walking the epic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. These are some of the world’s most breathtaking hiking destinations, offering unforgettable views and a deep connection with nature. After a long day on the trails, nothing beats unwinding in a luxurious hotel—whether it’s a glass-bottom overwater villa in the Maldives, a cozy Swiss chalet, or a cliffside resort in Santorini with an infinity pool overlooking the Aegean Sea.
Of course, getting there should be just as enjoyable. Top airlines like Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Emirates provide world-class service, ensuring your flight is as comfortable as your destination is stunning. Whether you’re jetting off to a tropical paradise or a snowy wonderland, choosing the best airlines and flights makes all the difference in your travel experience.
So why not plan your dream holiday? Whether it’s a rugged mountain escape or a five-star beachfront retreat, the world is full of unforgettable places waiting to be explored. Pack your bags, book your flights, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
Inca Trail, Peru
The first spot of the 15 best hiking destinations in the world is The Inca Trail, it’s leading hikers through lush cloud forests, ancient Incan ruins, and dramatic mountain scenery before reaching the legendary Machu Picchu. This 26-mile (42 km) trek takes about four days and is one of the most rewarding hikes in South America.
Torres del Paine W Trek, Chile
Located in Patagonia, the W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park is known for its stunning glaciers, turquoise lakes, and jagged mountain peaks. This 50-mile (80 km) hike takes about five days and is a must for those who love rugged and wild landscapes.
Everest Base Camp Trek, Nepal
One of the most famous trekking routes in the world, the Everest Base Camp trek takes you through the heart of the Himalayas. At 17,598 feet (5,364 meters), reaching base camp is a dream for many adventurers. The journey takes about two weeks and offers some of the best mountain views on Earth.
The Appalachian Trail, USA
Stretching over 2,190 miles (3,524 km) from Georgia to Maine, the Appalachian Trail is one of the longest and best hiking trails in the world. While most hikers don’t complete the entire trail, sections like the Great Smoky Mountains and Shenandoah National Park offer stunning scenery.
Mont Blanc Trek, France, Italy & Switzerland
Circling Western Europe’s highest peak, the Tour du Mont Blanc covers 110 miles (170 km) and passes through France, Italy, and Switzerland. The trek offers breathtaking alpine scenery, charming villages, and delicious local cuisine
The Milford Track, New Zealand
Known as the “finest walk in the world,” New Zealand’s Milford Track is a 33.5-mile (53.5 km) hike through Fiordland National Park. With waterfalls, glaciers, and rainforest scenery, it’s one of the most beautiful hiking trails you’ll ever experience.
The Laugavegur Trail, Iceland
Iceland’s Laugavegur Trail is a 34-mile (55 km) trek through otherworldly landscapes featuring volcanic mountains, hot springs, and vast lava fields. It’s an adventure that feels like hiking on another planet.
The Pacific Crest Trail, USA
Made famous by the book and movie Wild, the Pacific Crest Trail stretches 2,650 miles (4,265 km) from Mexico to Canada. While few complete the entire trail, sections in the Sierra Nevada and Cascade Range offer unforgettable hikes.
The West Highland Way, Scotland
Scotland’s most famous long-distance hike, the West Highland Way, stretches 96 miles (154 km) from Milngavie to Fort William. Along the way, you’ll see lochs, mountains, and plenty of Scottish charm.
The Dolomites Alta Via 1, Italy
The Dolomites in northern Italy offer some of the best hikes in the world, and the Alta Via 1 is the most famous. This 75-mile (120 km) trek takes you through stunning alpine scenery, dramatic cliffs, and cozy mountain huts.
The Kalalau Trail, Hawaii, USA
We have three spots in USA at the best 15 hiking destination in the world list. For those who love coastal hikes, the Kalalau Trail on the Hawaiian island of Kauai is a must. This 11-mile (18 km) trek along the Napali Coast offers jaw-dropping ocean views, waterfalls, and lush tropical scenery.
The Great Wall of China Trek, China
Walking along the Great Wall of China is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The trek varies in length depending on the section you choose, but the Jinshanling to Simatai portion is considered one of the best for breathtaking views and history.
The Overland Track, Australia
Tasmania’s Overland Track is a 40-mile (65 km) hike through Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. This trek offers rugged wilderness, alpine lakes, and unique wildlife found nowhere else in the world.
The Camino de Santiago, Spain
The Camino de Santiago is more than just a hike; it’s a pilgrimage that has been walked for centuries. The most popular route, the Camino Francés, is nearly 500 miles (800 km) long, but you can hike shorter sections to experience its history and beauty.
The Drakensberg Grand Traverse, South Africa & Lesotho
For those seeking a remote and challenging trek, the Drakensberg Grand Traverse offers 125 miles (200 km) of rugged mountain scenery. It’s one of the best trails in the world for those who love off-the-beaten-path adventures.
What Continent Has the Best Wildlife for Hikers?
If you’re wondering what continent has the best wildlife, Africa stands out as the ultimate destination. Home to lions, elephants, gorillas, and an incredible variety of bird species, Africa offers unparalleled wildlife encounters. Hikes through places like Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro, Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and South Africa’s Drakensberg Mountains provide a mix of breathtaking scenery and unique wildlife experiences.
Whether you’re looking for a short scenic hike or a multi-day trekking adventure, these 15 best hikes in the world offer something for every explorer. From the towering peaks of Nepal to the coastal cliffs of Hawaii, these trails will leave you with unforgettable memories. So, lace up your boots, pack your gear, and start planning your next adventure!
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