15 Most Unique Hiking Destinations Around the World
A hike around the world isn’t just about ticking off trails—it’s about feeling alive in places that take your breath away. From cloud forests in Peru to glaciers in Patagonia, every step pulls you deeper into nature and local culture. Whether you’re after snow-capped peaks, jungle paths, or desert landscapes, these iconic hikes show off the world’s most incredible scenery—and give you a real sense of adventure.
1) The Inca Trail, Peru
You’re literally walking in the footsteps of the ancient Incas when you hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This four-day trek takes you through cloud forests, mountain passes, and hidden ruins—culminating in that once-in-a-lifetime sunrise over Machu Picchu.
Reasons You Will Love It
Surrounded by the Andes, you’ll pass stunning archaeological sites like Dead Woman’s Pass and Wiñay Wayna.
How to Get There
From international airports like Miami, New York, or London, fly to Cusco, Peru. Your tour operator will transport you to the trailhead at KM 82 from Cusco. Due to limited availability, it’s best to reserve your Inca Trail permit months in advance.
2) Everest Base Camp, Nepal
If reaching the foot of the highest mountain in the world excites you, the Everest Base Camp trek is the ultimate challenge.
Reasons You Will Love It
You’ll visit historic monasteries, experience Sherpa culture firsthand, and take in breathtaking views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Everest.
How to Get There
Take a short domestic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla, the starting point of your journey. Since the trip spans 12–14 days, plan extra time for acclimatization and exploration.
3) Torres del Paine, Chile
Located in the heart of Patagonia, Torres del Paine National Park is famous for its glaciers, turquoise lakes, and dramatic granite towers.
Reasons You Will Love It
Choose between the 5-day W Trek or the longer 8–10 day O Circuit—both offer stunning views of peaks and Patagonian wildlife.
How to Get There
Fly into Punta Arenas via Santiago, then take a bus to Puerto Natales. From there, daily shuttles will take you to the park entrance.
4) The Dolomites, Italy
For hikers who love a mix of alpine beauty and local charm, the Dolomites are pure heaven.
Reasons You Will Love It
The Alta Via 1 is a scenic multi-day route connecting mountain huts and ridges. You’ll pass peaceful alpine lakes like Lago di Braies and enjoy delicious Italian meals along the way.
How to Get There
After landing in Venice, Verona, or Innsbruck, drive or take a train to Cortina d’Ampezzo or Bolzano—your base for adventure.
If you intend to travel outside of the Dolomites, verify whether you require an Italy tourist visa in advance of your trip.
5) Milford Track, New Zealand
The Milford Track in Fiordland National Park is often called the best walk in the world.
Reasons You Will Love It
You’ll cross swing bridges, walk through lush rainforests, and see waterfalls like the incredible Sutherland Falls before reaching the breathtaking Milford Sound.
How to Get There
Fly to Queenstown, then take a bus or boat to Te Anau Downs, where the trail starts. Because the trail is strictly limited to protect its environment, book huts and permits early.
6) Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
If scaling Africa’s tallest mountain is on your bucket list, this is your sign.
Reasons You Will Love It
You’ll pass through five different climate zones before reaching the 5,895-meter summit known as the Roof of Africa.
How to Get There
Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), between Moshi and Arusha. Local guides will take you to routes such as Machame, Marangu, or Lemosho. Prepare for altitude and always go with a certified operator.
7) The Appalachian Trail, USA
If long-distance hiking calls your name, the Appalachian Trail might be the one. Stretching over 3,500 kilometers from Georgia to Maine, it’s the world’s longest hiking-only trail.
Reasons You Will Love It
Every section offers something different—from misty forests to panoramic peaks.
How to Get There
Start at either Springer Mountain, Georgia, or Mount Katahdin, Maine. Fly into Atlanta or Bangor for access.
Before traveling, check if you need a US tourist visa.
8) Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia
Mount Kinabalu in Sabah, Borneo, is one of the most accessible and exciting climbs in Asia.
Reasons You Will Love It
This trek combines adventure and biodiversity—lush rainforest trails, exotic orchids, and incredible sunrise views from the summit.
How to Get There
Fly into Kota Kinabalu International Airport. From there, it’s about two hours to Kinabalu Park Headquarters. All climbs require a licensed guide and permit arranged through the park office.
Secure your Malaysia tourist visa in advance if needed.
9) The Haute Route, France to Switzerland
This 12-day trek links two iconic alpine destinations: Chamonix in France and Zermatt in Switzerland.
Reasons You Will Love It
You’ll cross glaciers, mountain passes, and valleys with sweeping views of Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn.
How to Get There
Fly to Geneva and take a bus or train to Chamonix. When you finish in Zermatt, take the train back to Geneva.
10) The Laugavegur Trail, Iceland
One of Iceland’s most spectacular hikes, this trail delivers surreal landscapes at every turn.
Reasons You Will Love It
You’ll walk through black sand deserts, colorful rhyolite mountains, and geothermal valleys before reaching Thorsmork.
How to Get There
Fly into Reykjavik and take a bus to Landmannalaugar, where the trail begins. Weather can change quickly, so come prepared.
11) The Camino de Santiago, Spain
For a journey that’s as spiritual as it is physical, the Camino de Santiago is the perfect choice.
Reasons You Will Love It
This historic pilgrimage takes you through vineyards, villages, and rolling hills as you make your way to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.
How to Get There
Fly into Madrid or Barcelona, then continue to Pamplona or Saint Jean Pied de Port—two common starting points.
12) The Pacific Crest Trail, USA
Spanning 4,265 kilometers from Mexico to Canada, the Pacific Crest Trail is a true endurance test and a dream for wilderness lovers.
Reasons You Will Love It
You’ll experience everything from arid deserts to alpine peaks in the Sierra Nevada and Cascade ranges.
How to Get There
Start at Campo, California, near the Mexican border. To reach the southern trailhead, fly into Los Angeles or San Diego.
13) Annapurna Circuit, Nepal
One of the most diverse and scenic treks in the Himalayas, the Annapurna Circuit offers everything from rice terraces to high-altitude passes.
Reasons You Will Love It
You’ll travel through local villages and farmlands before crossing the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, surrounded by towering peaks.
How to Get There
Fly into Kathmandu and take a bus to Besisahar, the trailhead. Both an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and a TIMS card are required.
14) The Drakensberg Mountains, South Africa
The Drakensberg Mountains combine dramatic landscapes with ancient history and culture.
Reasons You Will Love It
Expect sheer cliffs, dramatic peaks like Cathedral Peak and Amphitheatre, and centuries-old San rock art.
How to Get There
Fly into Durban or Johannesburg, then drive to one of the national parks in the area such as Royal Natal or Giant’s Castle.
15) Banff and Jasper National Parks, Canada
If you’re after picture-perfect mountain scenery, Banff and Jasper have it all.
Reasons You Will Love It
Hike to turquoise lakes, through forests and glaciers, or try routes like Johnston Canyon and the Skyline Trail.
How to Get There
Fly into Calgary International Airport, then drive about 1.5 hours to Banff or five hours to Jasper. The scenic Icefields Parkway connects the two parks.
Tips for Planning Your Hiking Adventure
- Find out the best time of year for each destination to avoid bad weather.
- Obtain permits early—popular trails and accommodations sell out months ahead.
- Pack smart: sturdy footwear, layered clothing, a first aid kit, and enough water and food.
- Follow the Leave No Trace principles to protect nature and wildlife.
- Get travel insurance that covers trekking and emergency evacuation.
- Allow time to acclimate to high altitudes, especially for hikes like Everest Base Camp or Kilimanjaro.
