It’s not easy, but the things that are really worth it rarely are. The best and most unspoilt landscapes of the world are often to be found high up, deep within the clouds, bought to life by the freshest of air.
Nothing can compare to the feeling of accomplishment you feel having conquered something so tough and nothing comes close to the experience of taking in the view and absorbing the isolation knowing you’ve earned it with every step (and blister!).
But what are the best trekking destinations around the world? These locations are amazing…
1. The Inca Trail, Peru
An oldie but by god it’s a goodie and definitely one trip you need to do when young.
The sight of the sun rising beside Machu Picchu is one of the most impressive sights you could ever wish to see. The trek through jungles and stunning mountainscapes comes complete with phenomenal history, culture and some of the most beautiful lands in the world all thrown in to one epic trip.
A trip such as Inca Discovery is a great way of making sure that not only do you not miss one single piece of the epic scenery that makes this trek so special, but also that every single details is taken care of on your behalf leaving you to do nothing except concentrate on walking and soaking up the experience. You really won’t regret visiting Machu Picchu.
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2. The Annapurnas, Nepal
A trek along the Annapurnas is a journey across the very backbone of the world. With mountain after mountain of rocky, snow capped terrain; it’s the most exciting and all encompassing way to explore the true breadth of the Himalayas.
Expect panoramic views of some of the most impressive natural land structures the world has to offer, and, if you do the trek as part of a trip such as Annapurna Sanctuary, you can also incorporate visits to remote Sherpa villages and temples along the way. For a rewarding experience you might like to combine trekking with volunteering in Nepal.
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3. Everest Base Camp, Nepal
Mount Everest is probably the biggest challenge Mother Nature has ever provided us with, and a trek to base camp is something that is not to be taken lightly.
At well over 5,000 meters above sea level, the trek to Everest Base Camp is a tough journey into the heavens (to put that into perspective Ben Nevis the highest mountain the UK is just over 1,300 metres above sea level to the top!)
Along the way you can expect to see remote Sherpa villages, Glacial moraines and rich green forests making this not only one heck of an achievement but also a spectacular way to get a fresh perspective on life in the most remote terrain of the Himalayas.
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The Tongariro Crossing, New Zealand
There are so many reasons to visit New Zealand and the outdoor scenery is spectacular. If you are keen to see as much as possible you might like to apply to work in New Zealand, working holidays are really popular here. Now lets get onto the best trekking destination in the country…
Dramatic volcanic peaks, cascading valleys and natural sulphur pools have earned the Tongariro Crossing on New Zealand’s North Island the accolade of one of the best 1 day treks in the world.
The start is around 75k from the North Island’s adventure capital of Taupo and it will take you somewhere between 6-8hours to complete – although if you want to add the challenge of climbing the famous Mt Ngauruhoe (aka Lord of the Rings Mt Doom) you can add another 3 hours to that tie at least.
It’s the perfect day trip for those who want slightly easier introduction to trekking than the super challenges mentioned above, but don’t want to miss out on any of the stunning scenery – this trek offers panoramic views of the landscape that New Zealand is so famous for.
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5. El Camino de Santiago, Spain
Most famous as a Christian pilgrimage to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, North West Spain where the remains of the apostle Saint James are buried this epic journey will take you right across the north of Spain from a huge selection of popular starting points across Europe.
While this trek may have its roots set in religion the trek is becoming more and more popular with those who are simply excited by the route and the trek itself.
There are multiple routes that you can follow if you’re interested in doing the trek although the most popular route is The French Way (Camino Frances), which starts from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France and takes you along the Pyranese mountain range, through the cities of Pamplona, Logroño, Burgos and León and the beautiful Spanish countryside. It’s a wonderful way to come face to face with traditional Spanish culture.
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If this week’s high five has got you motivated for a taste of the high life make sure you check out our huge selection of adventures and our cheap flights so that you can get there for less.