Trekking (or hiking) is a fantastic way to escape the urban jungle and experience the great outdoors. But where to go? Some like to stick to the popular trails, while others prefer a more off-the-beaten-path adventure. Treks in all seven continents offer everything from breathtaking mountain views and pristine beaches to steamy jungles and dangerous wildlife. Whether you prefer extreme adventures or a relaxing stroll, there’s a trek out there for you.
So here are the best treks in the world:
- Everest
Trekking to Everest Base Camp in Nepal can be a wonderful experience for the adventurous. While most of the trek is spent walking uphill, you gain an incredible view of the Himalayan mountains, making the time spent uphill worthwhile. This trek is made up of two trails: the first takes you from Lukla to Phakding, technically the second trail, while the second trail is from Phakding to Namche Bazaar.
- Annapurna
Annapurna is an 8,091 meters high mountain located in the Annapurna massif. It is situated in the central part of Nepal, 60 km northeast of Kathmandu. Annapurna is the 10th highest mountain in the world. It is the northernmost of the Himalayan giants in the Indian Himalaya.
- Kilimanjaro
Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain, is renowned throughout the world for its stunning beauty. And while some climbers attempt the mountain for the challenge, for others, it is the destination itself that serves as a reason to climb. And choosing Kilimanjaro means exploring Africa’s most iconic landmark.
- Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is the tallest mountain in Japan, standing at 3,776 meters. It is one of the tallest volcanic mountains in the world. Mount Fuji’s peak is often covered with snow all year, giving it the popular nickname of “Fujisan,” which means “Fuji Mountain.” Several trails lead to Mount Fuji, the most popular of which is from Yoshida Trail (500 yen), which starts at the fifth station of Yoshida trail.
Mount Fuji is part of the Japanese alps and is the tallest mountain on Honshu, the largest island in Japan. The mountain is a dormant volcano and is well-known for the snow-capped peak that looms above the surrounding forests. The volcano last erupted in 1707, but from 1882-1923, Mount Fuji was growing steadily higher and taller, making it a dangerous volcano. The peak grew to 12,388 feet in 1923, before the volcano stopped growing.
- Mt. Kailash
Mt. Kailash is located in the central part of the Himalayas and is sacred to Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bonpas. For thousands of years, pilgrims have travelled from all over the world to visit this holy mountain. The trek to Mt. Kailash is considered one of the most challenging and arduous treks in the Himalayas. However, those who make the journey are rewarded with spectacular views.
- Mt. Vinson
Mt. Vinson is the tallest mountain in Antarctica. It’s not the tallest mountain on earth, but it’s the tallest mountain above sea level and on the continent. Mt. Vinson, the fifth highest peak in the world, lies on the Antarctic continent, 80 kilometres from the Ross Ice Shelf. It is the highest point in Antarctica—and the world. Mt. Vinson lay 8,848 meters above sea level and was the highest peak to ever be climbed without the aid of a mountaineer. Today, there are 3 expeditions up Mount Vinson each year (1 on January, 1 in February, and 1 in March). An expedition typically takes around 6 months to complete, with 3 months spent training and 3 months spent on the mountain.
- Mt. Rainier
If you ever visit Seattle, Washington, you can’t miss the opportunity to visit Mt. Rainier, Washington’s tallest mountain. The snow-capped volcano rises 14,411 feet, and hikers and climbers can trek to the summit in just one day or spend weeks hiking the 40-plus miles along the mountain’s 14,410-foot base. (The mountain and surrounding area are part of the Mt. Rainier National Park.)
- Mt. Kosciusko
Mt. Kosciusko, one of the highest mountains in the U.S., is great fun year-round, but the best time to visit is during one of Kosciusko’s two main seasons. Summer is the most popular time of year for hiking Kosciusko, and the summit is open year-round. However, the weather can be hot and humid. Wintertime conditions on the mountain are brutal, with snow and ice-covered trails, but hikers who brave the cold weather will be rewarded with roaring waterfalls, brilliant colours, and a multi-hued landscape.
The Kosciuszko National Park in New South Wales, Australia, is one of the most famous and scenically breathtaking places in the world. The Kosciuszko National Park contains the highest mountains in Australia. The snow-capped mountains cast cool, crisp shadows over the grassy plains below. The slopes are blanketed in thick fir trees, while the streams and waterfalls are surrounded by dense rainforests.
Treks are a great way to explore the great outdoors and get the most from your vacation. Whether you travel solo or with friends, there’s a Trek for everyone!
