Some people travel across the world for gastronomical experiences or to soak in famous tourist sights, but one of the most underrated ways to truly experience a new country is to strap on your hiking boots and walk through it. From the famous Inca Trail to the gruelling, yet inspiring Kokoda walk, here’s all the best walks and trails around the world.
01
Kokoda Track
Difficulty: Challenging
The Kokoda Track is one of the most famous and gruelling hikes in the world. This 96 kilometre trail is steeped in history from World War II and was the site of many battles in the Pacific War. Taking anywhere between 4-12 days to complete in its entirety, the trail winds through dense jungle, mountains and villages. Physically, it’s a tough trek that is both mentally and physically challenging which also requires rigorous training and preparation.
02
Inca Trail
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
The Inca Trail is by far one of the most iconic hiking routes in the world. Though it’s shorter than some of the other famous trails on this list, it is by no means easier. The 42 kilometre trail winds you through forests and ancient Inca ruins as you make your way up one of the tallest mountains in the area. After four days of hiking, you’ll be greeted with once-in-a-lifetime views of the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu. This is a challenging walk that can also cause altitude sickness if hikers don’t properly acclimatise before the hike.
03
Camino de Santiago
Difficulty: Moderate
The Camino de Santiago, also known as the Way of Saint James, is a pilgrimage route from the Middle Ages that people still walk today. The most popular route is the Camino Francés which stretches over 800 kilometres from the French Pyrenees to the city of Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Beyond just being a challenging walk, this trek attracts thousands of walkers every year making it a very social endeavour where walkers meet others and experience local culture and food together. The entire walk takes approximately 30–35 days to complete in its entirety but many walkers opt for shorter, more palatable sections instead.
04
Milford Track
Difficulty: Moderate
There’s no better way to experience the magic of New Zealand’s tranquil natural landscape than walking the Milford Track. Located in New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park, this trail gives hikers the chance to experience some of the most pristine natural beauty on the planet. Over 50 kilometres, this trail takes you through rainforests, mountain passes, and waterfalls, with the walk finishing at the iconic Milford Sound. This trek takes 4 days and is typically guided by an experienced hiker which makes this walk accessible to a wide range of fitness levels and experiences.
05
The West Highland Way
Difficulty: Moderate
The West Highland Way is a 154 kilometre walk through some of Scotland’s most famous highlands. Starting just outside Glasgow, the trail will take you through hills, past lochs and into the town of Glencoe before finishing at the foot of Ben Nevis, which is the highest peak in all of the United Kingdom. This walk typically takes 6-8 days to finish and has a range of accommodation options along the way. So whether you enjoy rugged camping or cosy inns, it’s a great all-round adventure that you’ll never forget.
06
Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
If you’re on the Amalfi Coast and you’re looking for an easy, yet iconic walking trail you can do in a day, then look no further than the Sentiero degli Dei. The Sentiero degli Dei, or Path of the Gods, is a relatively short walk that takes you along a cliffside path that boasts panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the stunning Amalfi coastline. The trail is only eight kilometres and runs between the towns of Bomerano and Nocelle. Along the way, you’ll pass by vineyards, lemon groves and charming villages so be sure to pack your camera.