Are you looking for your next big hiking adventure? We’ve put together a list of the best trails on the planet. These hikes offer beautiful views, fresh air, and a good challenge. Each one is unique. Whether you’re new to hiking or have years of experience, there’s something here for you.
1. Inca Trail, Peru
Quick info:
- Distance: 42 km
- Time: 4 days
- Best time to go: May to September
- Region: Andes Mountains
- Top feature: Ends at Machu Picchu
This famous hike takes you through the Andes Mountains and ends at the ancient city of Machu Picchu. The path goes through cloud forests, stone steps, and Incan ruins. It’s not an easy walk, but it’s one of the most rewarding.
You must book a guided tour to do this trail. Only a certain number of people are allowed each day. Most tours include food, tents, and porters to carry your things. Nights can be cold, so bring warm clothes.
2. Tour du Mont Blanc, Europe
Quick info:
- Distance: 170 km
- Time: 7–11 days
- Best time to go: June to September
- Region: France, Italy, Switzerland
- Top feature: Views of Mont Blanc
This trail circles Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Western Europe. You’ll walk through three countries—France, Italy, and Switzerland. The route takes you past snowy peaks, small villages, and green valleys.
You can stay in mountain huts or guesthouses along the way. The trail is well marked. It’s popular, but you’ll still find quiet spots. The full loop takes over a week, but you can also choose shorter sections.
3. Everest Base Camp Trek, Nepal
Quick info:
- Distance: 130 km round trip
- Time: 12–14 days
- Best time to go: March to May, September to November
- Region: Himalayas
- Top feature: Close-up views of Mount Everest
This hike brings you to the base of the world’s highest mountain. Along the way, you pass through Sherpa villages, Buddhist monasteries, and stunning mountain views.
Most people fly into Lukla to start the trek. The trail climbs high, so you need to walk slowly and rest often. Altitude sickness is a risk. It’s best to hire a guide to help you stay safe and adjust to the height.
The Narrows is a one-of-a-kind river hike through towering slot canyons in Zion National Park. You’ll walk, wade, and sometimes swim through the Virgin River while surrounded by dramatic rock walls. It’s an adventurous experience—just be sure to check the weather and flash flood warnings before heading out.
4. Laugavegur Trail, Iceland
Quick info:
- Distance: 55 km
- Time: 4–5 days
- Best time to go: June to August
- Region: Southern Iceland
- Top feature: Colorful landscapes and geothermal spots
This trail takes you through one of the most unique landscapes on Earth. You’ll see hot springs, lava fields, glaciers, rivers, and rainbow-colored hills. It’s a mix of everything Iceland has to offer.
You can camp or stay in huts, but you need to book huts early. The weather changes quickly, so waterproof gear is a must. The trail is marked and not too hard, but some river crossings can be tricky.
5. Overland Track, Australia
Quick info:
- Distance: 65 km
- Time: 6 days
- Best time to go: October to May
- Region: Tasmania
- Top feature: Alpine lakes and ancient forests
This hike goes through Tasmania’s wild landscapes. You’ll walk across grasslands, climb mountain passes, and pass by peaceful lakes. There’s a lot of wildlife here too, like wallabies and wombats.
You need to book ahead if you go during peak season. The trail is one-way and well-maintained. There are huts to sleep in, but many people still bring a tent. It’s a quiet, beautiful hike with lots of nature.
Other than hiking, Australia’s great for scuba diving as well! Check out our list on the best underwater spots around the world!
6. Kalalau Trail, Hawaii, USA
Quick info:
- Distance: 35 km round trip
- Time: 2–3 days
- Best time to go: May to October
- Region: Kauai, Hawaii
- Top feature: Coastal cliffs and waterfalls
This trail takes you along the stunning Nā Pali Coast on Kauai. It’s famous for steep green cliffs, ocean views, and remote beaches. You’ll hike through forests and across streams, with waterfalls along the way.
The trail is tough and can get muddy and slippery. You need a permit to go past the first beach. Many people camp at Kalalau Beach at the end of the trail. Be ready for changing weather and strong sun.
7. Drakensberg Grand Traverse, South Africa & Lesotho
Quick info:
- Distance: Around 220 km
- Time: 10–14 days
- Best time to go: April to September
- Region: Drakensberg Mountains
- Top feature: Wild and remote mountain terrain
This is one of the most challenging and wildest hikes in Africa. You won’t find marked trails or signs. You’ll need a map, GPS, and solid planning. But the reward is complete freedom and views that stretch for miles.
You start at Sentinel Peak and finish at Bushman’s Nek. Most people hire a local guide. You’ll hike through high plateaus, cross rivers, and pass by cliffs and caves. There are no huts, so you must carry everything.
8. GR20, Corsica, France
Quick info:
- Distance: 180 km
- Time: 15 days
- Best time to go: June to September
- Region: Corsica, France
- Top feature: Rugged mountains and Mediterranean views
This hike is one of the hardest in Europe. It goes across the island of Corsica from north to south. The path is rocky, steep, and often exposed. But the views are incredible—mountains, lakes, and sea all in one.
There are mountain huts along the way where you can sleep and eat. You can also camp nearby. The weather can be hot during the day and cold at night. This trek is for fit and experienced hikers.
9. Torres del Paine “W” Trek, Chile
Quick info:
- Distance: 80 km
- Time: 4–5 days
- Best time to go: November to March
- Region: Patagonia
- Top feature: Glaciers, granite towers, and turquoise lakes
This trail forms a “W” shape through Patagonia’s most famous national park. You’ll see glaciers, jagged peaks, and bright blue lakes. The weather changes fast, but the beauty makes it worth it.
You can stay in huts or camp. Book early, especially during summer. The trail is popular, but not too crowded. Some hikers also do the longer “O” circuit, which takes 8–10 days.
Chile made our list of 5 countries you need to visit in South America, check it out!
10. The West Coast Trail, Canada
Quick info:
- Distance: 75 km
- Time: 5–7 days
- Best time to go: May to September
- Region: British Columbia
- Top feature: Forests, beaches, and ladders
This trail runs along Vancouver Island’s wild coast. You’ll walk through rainforest, cross rivers, and climb lots of ladders. You may even spot whales or bears from the beach.
You need a permit and must book in advance. The trail can be muddy and slippery, so good boots are a must. Only 75 hikers can start each day. It’s a great mix of ocean and forest.
11. The Snowman Trek, Bhutan
Quick info:
- Distance: 300+ km
- Time: 25–30 days
- Best time to go: September to October
- Region: Himalayas, Bhutan
- Top feature: Remote villages and high passes
This is one of the longest and most remote high-altitude hikes in the world. You’ll cross 11 mountain passes, many over 5,000 meters. You’ll pass tiny villages, yaks, and monasteries deep in the mountains.
You can only do this hike with a guide. It’s tough because of the height and length. You’ll sleep in tents and need to be very fit. Not many people try this trek, which makes it extra special.
Ready to Hit the Trail?
These hiking trails are some of the most beautiful and exciting in the world. Each one offers something different—high peaks, deep forests, wild coasts, or ancient paths. Whether you’re looking for a short adventure or a long challenge, there’s a trail here for you.
Before you go, make sure you’re prepared. Check the weather, bring the right gear, and know the rules for each hike. If you’re heading into remote or high places, it’s smart to travel with a guide or experienced group.
At Reward Land, we believe the best way to experience the world is one step at a time. So pick a trail, tie your boots, and get out there.
Happy hiking!
Croatian historian-turned-traveler with 41 countries under his belt and a passion for places most guidebooks forget. Speaks Croatian, English, Italian, and enough Latin to raise eyebrows at dinner. His role model is Herodotus, the original travel writer, and his mantra proves it: “Every place has a story. Most of them just aren’t on the signs.”