What Makes a Trek Unforgettable?
The definition of ‘best hike in the world’ depends on a traveler's interests and preferences. On the other hand, some trek routes are renowned due to their distinctive characteristics and aesthetics. Factors that make a remarkable trek expedition include scenic beauty, cultural significance, accessibility, unique features, level of challenge, and diverse experiences. These factors combine to create an unforgettable trek. They enrich personal growth through interactions with nature and locals, which provide a sense of achievement.
Top Tips for Trekkers
Before packing your trekking gear, consider the infrastructure on your chosen route. Some treks require total self-sufficiency, while others have shelters and teahouses. Consider the following tips during your expeditions for an enhanced trek expedition.
- Travel Light: Carry only essentials to avoid excess weight.
- Gear up: Choose appropriate footwear for support and quick drying.
- Protect Your Knees: Use trekking poles to manage steep descents.
- Climb Slowly: Ascend gradually to avoid acute mountain sickness.
- Heed the Weather: Check forecasts and avoid trekking in poor conditions.
- Be Prepared: Train your body with gentler walks and hikes.
- Plan Ahead: Obtain necessary permits and book accommodations in advance.
Top Trek Routes in the World
Trekking offers a unique perspective and means to explore a region's distinct landscapes and natural wonders. The experience immerses you in stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, and the serenity of nature.
1. Everest Base Camp, Nepal
- Time Needed: 2 weeks
- Best Time to Go: March to May and September to November.
- Alternative routes: Gokyo Lakes Trek, Three Passes Trek
The trek to Everest Base Camp is a 130-kilometer round trip into the heart of the Khumbu region. This trek offers stunning views of the world's highest peaks and a glimpse into the lives of the Sherpa people. During the trek, you will arrive at Namche Bazaar, a busy Sherpa town, and an essential acclimatization stop. The beautiful village offers a mix of traditional and modern ambiance. Moreover, Tengboche Monastery, the largest gompa in the Khumbu region, provides spiritual insight and panoramic views of Everest, Ama Da, and other peaks. Moving ahead, you will arrive at Kala Patthar, one of the best viewpoints in the Khumbu region, which offers the best views of Mount Everest.
Due to the high altitude and length of the Everest Base Camp trek, it is challenging. Acclimatization is crucial to prevent altitude sickness. Daily hikes involving steep ascents and descents require good physical fitness and stamina. The trek is well-supported by numerous teahouses and lodges, which provide comfortable accommodations and meals. The ideal times to trek to Everest Base Camp are from March to May and September to November. These periods offer the most stable weather conditions, clear skies, and optimal trekking temperatures.
2. Annapurna Circuit, Nepal
- Time Needed: 12-22 days
- Best Time to Go: October to November and April to May
- Alternative routes: Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Mardi Himal Trek
The Annapurna Circuit is a 160-230 kilometer trek that circles the Annapurna Massif. This trail offers diverse landscapes, from subtropical forests to alpine meadows. Thorong La Pass is the highest point on the circuit, at 5,416 meters. It offers spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. En route, you will arrive at Manang village, a cultural hub where trekkers rest and acclimate. Manang also offers travelers a perfect opportunity to experience the local Tibetan-Buddhist traditions. The journey takes you to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists.
The Annapurna Circuit is moderately challenging, with significant altitude gains and varying trail conditions. The trek requires good fitness and acclimatization to cope with the high altitudes, particularly when crossing Thorong La Pass. The trail is well-supported, with numerous teahouses offering lodging and meals. The best times to trek the Annapurna Circuit are from October to November and April to May when the weather is stable and the views are clear.
3. Inca Trail, Peru
- Time Needed: 4-5 days
- Best Time to Go: May to September
- Alternative routes: Salkantay Trek, Lares Trek
The Inca Trail leads to the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu. This 42-kilometer trek presents stunning mountain scenery, cloud forests, subtropical jungle, and a mix of Inca paving stones, ruins, and tunnels. The Sun Gate (Inti Punku) offers the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu. Dead Woman's Pass is the highest point at 4,215 meters. It presents a challenging ascent but rewards trekkers with breathtaking views of the Andes. Along the trail, hikers encounter several Inca ruins, including Wiñay Wayna, featuring impressive agricultural terraces and ceremonial sites.
Regarding difficulty level, the Inca Trail is rated as moderate to challenging. In addition, the elevation gain during the trek can affect travelers, especially at Dead Woman's Pass. Moreover, the steep inclines and declines require good fitness. However, the trails are well-maintained for most of the trek, and with the expertise of the trained guides, the expedition will be a thrilling yet comfortable experience. The best time to hike the Inca Trail is from May to September, during the dry season when the weather and trail conditions are at their best. It is essential to book permits well in advance because the trail is limited to 500 people per day, including guides and porters.
4. Torres del Paine Circuit, Chile
- Time Needed: 9 days
- Best Time to Go: November to March
- Alternative routes: W Trek, Dientes de Navarino Trek
The Torres del Paine Circuit, or the "O" Circuit, is a 130-kilometer trek through Patagonia's stunning landscapes. The French Valley is renowned for its dramatic views of hanging glaciers and spiked peaks. This route offers vivid scenery, including glaciers, lakes, rivers, and rugged mountains. The iconic Torres del Paine towers are three granite peaks that rise sharply into the sky. They create one of Patagonia's most recognizable landmarks. Moreover, Grey Glacier is a part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, a massive ice formation that trekkers can view up close.
The Torres del Paine Circuit is moderate to challenging. The steep climbs and unpredictable weather conditions make the trek challenging. So, trekkers must be prepared for strong winds, rain, and even snowfall. You should gear up according to the season you are traveling to deal with the issues you might face. The trail facilitates several shelters along the route that provide basic accommodation and meals. The best time to trek the Torres del Paine Circuit is from November to March when the weather is milder and the days are longer.
5. Pacific Crest Trail, USA
- Time Needed: 5 months
- Best Time to Go: April to September
- Alternative routes: John Muir Trail, Continental Divide Trail
The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) stretches 4,270 kilometers from the Mexican border to the Canadian border. It presents the diverse landscapes of California, Oregon, and Washington.
The Sierra Nevada section of the PCT is renowned for its stunning alpine scenery, including Yosemite National Park and the John Muir Trail. During the trek, you can access Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States, via a side trail. Moreover, the Cascade Range in Oregon and Washington offers dense forests, volcanic mountains, and scenic views of the Pacific Northwest.
The PCT might be challenging for beginners due to its length and the varied terrain. Hiking the entire trail requires months of commitment, excellent physical fitness, and the ability to carry and manage supplies over long distances. A network of trail angels and resupply points supports the trail. The best time to hike the PCT is from April to September. Southbound hikers typically start in late April, and northbound hikers begin in late June to avoid snow in the Sierra Nevada.
6. Milford Track, New Zealand
- Time Needed: 4 days
- Best Time to Go: October to April
- Alternative routes: Routeburn Track, Kepler Track
The Milford Track is a 53-kilometer trek through Fiordland National Park. It is often called the "finest walk in the world" due to its serener walking experience through rainforests, alpine scenery, and stunning waterfalls. At 1,154 meters, Mackinnon Pass provides panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. En route, you will also walk past Sutherland Falls, one of the world's tallest waterfalls. The trek ends at Milford Sound, the place is
Milford Sound is the track's endpoint. It is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, including dolphins and seals. The Milford Track is moderate, with well-maintained trails and facilities. However, your challenges include variable weather conditions and slippery terrain in some sections. The Department of Conservation (DOC) manages the track, providing huts with basic amenities along the route. The best time of the year to hike the Milford Track is from October to April, when the weather is optimal for outdoor expeditions, and the accommodation establishments are fully serviced.
7. Tour du Mont Blanc, France/Italy/Switzerland
- Time Needed: 10-14 days
- Best Time to Go: June to September
- Alternative routes: Haute Route, Walker’s Haute Route
The Tour du Mont Blanc is a 170-kilometer trek that travels around Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Western Europe. It passes through France, Italy, and Switzerland and offers trekkers varied alpine scenery. Chamonix is the expedition's starting point, and the trail ahead passes through a famous mountaineering town with a rich history and vibrant atmosphere. Additionally, you will enjoy stunning views of Mont Blanc, known for its charming streets and delicious cuisine. The trek provides changing landscapes, from dense meadows to dramatic glaciers and rugged mountain peaks.
The Tour du Mont Blanc is moderate to challenging, with demanding daily ascents and descents. Trekkers must be in good physical condition and prepared for varying weather conditions—numerous hotels along the route offer comfortable lodging and meals during the trek. The best time to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc is from June to September when the weather is more stable and the mountain passes are snow-free.
8. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
- Time Needed: 5-9 days
- Best Time to Go: June to October
- Alternative routes: Lemosho Route, Rongai Route
Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in Africa, standing at an astounding height of 5,895 meters. Climbing this iconic mountain takes you through five distinct climatic zones, from tropical rainforests to arctic summits. Uhuru Peak is the trek's highest point, which offers travelers a sense of accomplishment and stunning sunrise views. On the other hand, you will hike along the Lava Tower, a volcanic formation, which is an exciting landmark along the route. Moving ahead, you will reach the Barranco Wall, where you must climb a steep mountain. It is a challenging but rewarding experience with spectacular views and adventure.
The final stretch of the expedition includes conquering the stunning Mount Kilimanjaro. The trek is challenging due to the high altitude and strenuous ascent. You can reach the summit via multiple routes with varying difficulty levels and acclimatization schedules. The trek requires good physical fitness and preparation for high-altitude conditions. Apart from the traditional route, you can also opt for alternatives like the Machame and Marangu routes, which provide unique experiences with scenic paths and shorter, steeper climbs. The best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is from January to March and June to October. These periods offer more stable weather and better trail conditions.
9. GR20, Corsica, France
- Time Needed: 15 days
- Best Time to Go: June to September
- Alternative routes: Alta Via 1, Kungsleden
The GR20 is one of Europe's long-distance trek routes. The trail crosses the rugged mountains of Corsica over approximately 180 kilometers. The trek is known for its challenging terrain and stunning views. Along the journey, you will pass by The Bavella Needles, a series of dramatic rock formations that offer a dynamic background. Moreover, the trek features Lac de Nino, a beautiful glacial lake where you can stop and relax.
The GR20's distinct landscapes, steep climbs, and descents make it challenging for beginners. To accomplish the trek with ease and comfort, one must have excellent physical fitness, experience in mountain trekking, and the ability to navigate uneven terrain. Trekkers should be prepared for unpredictable weather and the trail's remote nature, which has fewer facilities and services. The best time to hike the GR20 is from June to September when the weather is more stable, and the mountain passes are generally snow-free.
10. Snowman Trek, Bhutan
- Time Needed: 30-35 days
- Best Time to Go: April to June and September to October
- Alternative routes: Jhomolhari Trek, Druk Path Trek
The Snowman Trek in Bhutan is considered one of the best treks in the world. The perfect landscapes and the chance to experience Bhutan's unique culture make this trek a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. It is a 25-day trek and covers a total distance of 300 kilometers. This trek takes you through remote valleys and high-altitude passes in the Bhutanese Himalayas. Thanza Village is the highlight of the expedition as it offers a glimpse into traditional Bhutanese life in one of the country's most remote areas. The trail includes several high passes over 5,000 meters, providing dramatic mountain views.
The Snowman Trek is considered to be challenging due to its length, elevation gain, and remote location. Trekkers must be well-prepared physically and mentally and have experience in high-altitude trekking. The trek includes long days of hiking under challenging conditions, with limited access to medical facilities and other services. The best times to explore the Snowman Trek are from April to June and September to October. These periods offer the best weather conditions for trekking in the high Himalayas.
Final Thoughts
These top 10 trekking routes offer a variety of experiences, from the rich cultural landscapes of Nepal to the wilderness of Patagonia and the beauty of Bhutan. Each trek presents its unique challenges and rewards. You can choose one that matches your fitness level and interests. These trails promise unforgettable adventures and lasting memories. Prepare well, respect the environment, and move on a journey that will undoubtedly enrich your life.
These trekking routes combine breathtaking scenery, cultural encounters, and physical challenges to provide the best experiences in the world. Each trail has its unique character, inviting trekkers to explore and discover the beauty and wonder of our planet.
