Some tourist destinations, like Koh Phangan in Thailand or many other beach locations, are ideal for just lazing around and chilling out. Others, however, are best enjoyed with a little more exertion.
So, if you like hiking, trekking or camping (or just generally having an adventure), then why not consider adding one of these three iconic walking routes to your bucket list?
- The Inca Trail, Peru
Inca Trail, Peru How many trails can boast an ending as magnificent as the mythical ancient city of Machu Picchu? This 26-mile (43km) trail through the Peruvian Andes will take four or five days, with the best time to go being May to September. En-route you will see rivers, mountains, and various other ruins before ending at the legendary 700-year-old Incan city. Known for its sophisticated drystone walls, astronomically aligned buildings and world-class views, the city was actually lost for many years before being rediscovered in 1911. Seriously, could there be a better reward for all that walking?
- Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim Hike
Grand Canyon, USA The fact that this hike is 48 miles (77km) long and takes from one to three days really highlights the phenomenal vastness of the Grand Canyon. Carved out by the Colorado River in Arizona, this official Wonder of the World is 5 to 6 million years old, 277 miles (446km) long and up to 18 miles (29km) wide. In other words, a genuine phenomenon. Its striking red rocks look gorgeous at both sunrise and sunset, meaning that you will be rewarded with some amazing views. The recommended route is from the North Rim to the South Rim via the North Kaibab Trail. There is an Indiana Jones feel to this hike, as you will descend into the actual canyon itself, cross the Colorado River, before climbing back up again. The best time to do it is either May to June or September to October (avoid this trek during the super hot July or August months).
- Laugavegur Trek, Iceland
Laugavegur Trek, Iceland According to research by the UN, Iceland is one of the nations with the most rapid amount of tourism growth. No wonder, when it has exceptional walking routes like the Laugavegur Trek. Named as one of the world’s best hiking trails by no less than National Geographic, this 34-mile (55km) long adventure takes two to four days. Over that time, you will experience a landscape like no other — the breathtaking Icelandic wilderness. Glaciers, gorges, lava fields, hot springs, rainbow rhyolite mountains — it really has to be seen to be believed. So why not see it for yourself?
Don’t forget that if you are going on a walking holiday, then make sure to plan everything carefully in advance. Pack all of the right equipment and carefully research all of the safety guidelines for that particular hike. Also, double-check that you have the right insurance coverage.
When it comes to truly experiencing the scenery and atmosphere of a beautiful landscape, nothing beats a trekking holiday. I hope that this list has given you a little bit of inspiration to plan one. Happy hiking!
