Some of the most beautiful places in the world can only be reached by foot. If you’re a nature lover, then the simple act of being able to lace up your hiking boots and head off to a remote trail probably sounds like a dream to you. Imagine crisp, fresh air filling your lungs as you get to fully take in the stillness of the landscape. This is something that motivates hikers from around the world to travel to distant places to tackle some of the most beautiful trails, many of which are multi-day journeys.
Aside from pure, natural beauty, some of the world’s most popular hiking trails also provide access to historical treasures. For example, in the Himalayas, ancient walking trails connect villages too. Let’s take a look at some of the world’s best, most beautiful hiking trails so that you know where to visit on your next big adventure.
The Annapurna Circuit Trail
Nepal’s Annapurna Circuit Trail is 205 kilometers long and will take approximately 17 days to complete. Hikers will journey through some of earth’s tallest peaks, beginning in a steamy jungle and ascending well above the tree line. The highest point on this trail is on the Thorung Pass, which is surrounded by an incredible panorama of mountains and measures in at 17,770 feet.
This popular hike demands a relatively high fitness level as the distances to be covered are long, and the elevation can be tough on even the most seasoned of hikers. If the option is available to you, consider hiring porters for your backpack – this can really make the trip a lot more enjoyable.
Samaria Gorge
If you’re a hiker and Greece is on your list, be sure to make the time for The Samaria Gorge. This hike is on the island of Crete and has become one of its top attractions. You’ll begin the hike in a pine forest before descending through a valley and ending at the Libyan Sea. Its entire distance is about 16 kilometers.
What makes this hike unique is that its steepest points are at the start of it. At around halfway, you’ll reach the trail’s most famous stop – a very narrow gap where the walls of the gorge are just a few meters apart but 300 meters high. The hike ends in the quaint town of Agia Roumeli, where you can enjoy some relaxation on the black sand beach or take a refreshing swim.
Kilimanjaro
Located in Tanzania, Kilimanjaro is one of Africa’s most iconic sites. Unsurprisingly, the hike to the top is on many people’s bucket list, and every year, roughly 30,000 people attempt the hike. The good news is that depending on the route you take, your chances of completing the trek are relatively good.
From the top, you can expect to see all the surrounding landscape, which is as impressive as the best sportsbet NRL betting odds, and just as rewarding to look at. It will take between five and six days to reach the top, depending on your fitness level and how well you’re able to acclimatize.