Ten of the World's Best Places to Hike

Spending time outdoors is good for our bodies, our mental health, and provides us with a way to spend quality time with loved ones in the fresh air. During the height of the pandemic, hiking became a favourite pastime for many, and it remains an extremely popular activity in 2022.

And so, from classics to barely trodden, check out these 10 incredible hikes around the world. If the idea of venturing out on unfamiliar trails in an unfamiliar country makes you nervous, never fear: that’s what our qualified hiking guides are for!

1. Larch Valley and Sentinel Pass, Banff National Park, Canada

Greg, a member of the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides, can lead you on any number of day hikes into the Banff backcountry, where you’ll witness the majestic beauty of Canada’s oldest National Park, and likely a good smattering of wildlife. Visit Larch Valley in early autumn for a beautiful display of golden needles.

Learn more about hiking in Banff

2. Triglav National Park, Julian Alps, Slovenia

Slovenia – recently named the world’s “greenest” country – is a mecca for hikers in search of stunning alpine vistas, ridgeline walks, and quiet trails. Bonus are the historic mountain huts dotting the alps, providing hikers with welcome food and drink along the way. Local guide Gorazd will share with you some of the best trails and views on offer on a day hike in the Julian Alps.

Learn more about hiking in Slovenia

3. Path of the Gods, Amalfi Coast, Italy

On Italy’s gorgeous and refined Amalfi Coast, sipping limoncello on a patio may come to mind rather than hitting rugged trails. But missing out on the Path of the Gods – considered by many as one of the world’s most beautiful hikes - would be a travesty! The sparkling blue sea opens up far below as you walk along the cliffside trail, before making your way down ancient stone steps to the village of Positano.

Learn more about hiking along the Amalfi Coast

4. Salkantay Trek, Cusco, Peru

National Geographic recently named Peru’s Salkantay Trek "One of the 20 most extreme, hair-raising, legendary adventures on the planet." This alternate route to Machu Picchu avoids the Inca Trail in favour of a less-trafficked trail. Our local Peruvian guide/Marathon runner Juan will take care of all your needs on this 5-day Andes trek.

Learn more about hiking the Salkantay Trail

5. Mount Batur, Bali

It's worth it to get up early for this one. Rise in the wee hours of the morning and climb the flanks of a volcano, reaching the top just in time to see sunrise peak over the caldera, flooding the dramatic landscape with light. Trek around the crater rim, then return to the base with hours left in your day to explore the rest of this lush island paradise.

Learn more about hiking in Bali

6. Mt. Snowdon, Wales

As Welsh climbing guide, Jim, explains: “By the standard of any mountain range in the world, the Snowdon massif is exceptional. What this mountain lacks in height by global standards, it more than makes up for by the complexity of its architecture and natural history.” Hike the 1000 metres elevation to the top and back in a day, passing mountain lakes, waterfalls, ancient monuments, and traditional hill farming.

Learn more about hiking in Wales

7. Mt Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Crowned by an eternal snow-cap, Mt. Kilimanjaro is situated inside Kilimanjaro National Park in Tanzania; it’s the highest mountain in Africa and the tallest freestanding mountain on earth. If you’re ready to truly challenge yourself, this is the hiking adventure for you, and local guide Dunstan can help make it happen.

Learn more about hiking Mt Kilimanjaro

8. Annapurna Base Camp, Nepal

Mt Everest isn’t the only peak over 8000m high in Nepal. The breathtaking (literally!) Annapurna range boasts the staggering Annapurna Massif, whose flanks glow a rich rose-gold at sunset. A week-long trek to Annapurna Base Camp is one of the most rewarding and memorable you’ll ever take, as you hike ancient paths deep into the Himalayas. No need to carry heavy camping gear, as the route is dotted with basic accommodation and meals in mountain villages.

Learn more about hiking in Nepal

9. Table Mountain, Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is a major city, but it boasts some of the most beautiful hiking trails anywhere, with views that span dramatic mountain ranges and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean below. Hiking up two iconic peaks - Lions Head and Table Mountain - are must-dos for any avid hiker visiting the area. Local guide Ian will make sure you get up and down safely.

Learn more about hiking in Cape Town

10. Angel's Landing, Zion National Park, USA

The red rocks, canyons and deserts of southern Utah are about as other-worldly as you can get without a trip to Mars. (They even hold Mars simulation camps here, true story!) We've highlighted the spine tingling thrill of a hike up Angel's Landing in Zion as a truly unforgettable route, but five national parks – Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands and Capitol Reef – all provide unforgettable trails for every type of adventurer.

Learn more about hiking in Utah

These hikes are just a start: our guides can customize a route that suits your fitness levels and interests, and takes into account the season and weather conditions. All you need to do is send any of them a message to get the conversation started. Have fun being active on your vacation!