Countries with the Best Hiking Trails

Did you know the Pacific Crest Trail spans about 2,650 miles in the US? It usually takes five to six months to finish¹. This trail is just one example of many amazing hikes worldwide. They are perfect for adventure seekers, cultural heritage travelers, and nature lovers. You can find challenging journeys in Nepal and breathtaking scenery in Norway. These places provide deep experiences for hikers. They can discover ancient sites, local ways of life, and unique cultures²³.

Key Takeaways

Discover the world’s most incredible hiking trails, from the Appalachian Trail in the United States to the Laugavegur Trail in Iceland.
Explore diverse landscapes and immerse yourself in cultural heritage travel experiences, including historical sites, local traditions, and indigenous cultures.
Plan your next hiking adventure in top destinations like Switzerland, New Zealand, Nepal, Iceland, and Norway for stunning natural scenery and outdoor adventures.
Embark on multi-day treks that offer opportunities to connect with local communities and learn about their way of life.
Discover hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations for a truly unique and memorable hiking experience.

Switzerland – Best for Alpine Landscapes and Scenic Mountain Trails

Switzerland is a dream for hikers, with its amazing alpine views and beautiful trails. The Jungfrau mountain range is famous for its sharp peaks and pretty meadows filled with wildflowers. Hikers love three main areas: the Oberland, Valais, and Bernese Oberland.

The Oberland Region

The Oberland area is known for its gorgeous views, especially of the Jungfrau. Obersteinberg is a Gem. It’s a UNESCO site with a hike to a quiet mountain inn and farm. The walk is about 3 hours uphill, passing by mountains and waterfalls. It’s a special place because it has no electricity.

The Valais Region

The Valais is famous for its stunning scenery, filled with meadows and tall peaks. Switzerland is home to 7,000 lakes, and the Valais has favorites like Lake Thun and Lake Léman. With over 3,241 miles of railway,you can easily explore the area.

The Bernese Oberland Region

The Bernese Oberland region has lots to offer outdoor lovers. From ski resorts to the Eiger’s steep slopes, there’s something for everyone. Tours often include a stop at Obersteinberg, a quiet mountain inn. The region also boasts 300 kilometers of hiking trails and the Jungfraujoch, which sits at 3,545 meters.

If you’re looking for an easy walk in the meadows or a tough climb to peaks, Switzerland is perfect. Its train network and hiking paths make it easy to enjoy stunning nature. Whether in the Oberland, Valais, or Bernese Oberland, there’s hiking heaven to explore.

“The hike to Obersteinberg is described as one of the best in the Alps, standing out among other popular routes like those near Zermatt or Courmayeur.”⁴

New Zealand – Best for Diversity

New Zealand shines with natural beauty, from lush forests to rugged coastal tracks. It’s perfect for both tough hikes and easy walks, with its volcanic zones and beaches. So, everyone, from newbies to pros, finds their perfect adventure here⁵.

Fiordland National Park

In the South Island’s southwest, Fiordland is a hidden outdoor gem. This UNESCO site stuns with its fjords and lush forests. For a memorable activity, take the Milford Sound cruise. You’ll see amazing waterfalls and might meet seals and dolphins⁶.

Tongariro National Park

Found on the North Island, Tongariro National Park is a dream for hikers. It’s home to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a tough but rewarding hike. This volcanic area shows off majestic mountains and was the model for Mount Doom in the Lord of the Rings movies⁶.

Abel Tasman National Park

On the South Island’s tip lies Abel Tasman National Park, famous for its beaches and clear waters. It offers easy beach walks and hard forest trails. The park also works on saving local nature, like bringing back bird species⁶.

New Zealand’s mix of challenges and leisure in its natural beauty attracts many. The stunning landscapes make it a perfect place for anyone who loves the outdoors⁵⁶⁷.

Nepal – Best for Budget Travelers

If you’re looking for a thrilling hiking trip that’s not too pricey, Nepal is your go-to place. It’s known for having amazing treks that fit well with smaller budgets⁸. You can choose from famous tracks, like the Everest Base Camp, to quieter paths in Langtang Valley. Nepal’s beauty and culture draw outdoor fans from all over.

Annapurna Circuit

The Annapurna Circuit stands out with its 14-22 day trek across the Himalayas⁸. You’ll see beautiful snow peaks, vibrant forests, and Tibetan-like villages. This journey mixes amazing nature with unique culture. It takes at least 14 days to finish, but it’s perfect for those short on time, too⁸.

Everest Base Camp

Reaching Everest Base Camp is a dream for many. It usually takes 14 days, and you’ll need an extra week for the Gokyo Ri Trek⁸. These routes offer some of the best Himalayan views. You’ll see Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse, and feel the magic of the Himalayas.

Langtang Valley

If you prefer quieter treks, Langtang Valley is a perfect pick. This 7-day hike⁸ lets you soak up the local culture. You’ll see Tibetan-style villages, old monasteries, and lush woods. It’s a great budget option compared to the more popular tracks.

Nepal is rich in culture thanks to groups like the Sherpas, Gurungs, and Newars⁹. It’s a top spot for those with tight budgets. The local rides are cheap, and places to stay won’t dent your wallet. With plenty of low-cost sights, you can have a memorable journey without spending lots¹⁰.

“Nepal is renowned as one of the cheapest countries to travel in the world.”⁸

Whether you love the high mountains, dense forests, or unique cultures, Nepal is perfect for those watching their budget⁹. With a good plan and an open mind, you can explore the breathtaking beauty of this Himalayan gem without spending too much.

Iceland – Best for Stunning Landscapes and Northern Lights

Iceland is perfect for the bold traveler. It boasts stunning landscapes and beautiful scenery. This makes it a dream for hikers wanting to be amidst nature¹¹. The country is full of natural and cultural sites. It offers destinations suited to every traveler’s tastes¹¹.

Laugavegur Trail

The Laugavegur Trail is well-known for its multi-day hike. It leads through Iceland’s amazing scenes, like glaciers, hot springs, and high valleys¹¹. The trail winds through different landscapes, showing off the country’s grand beauty¹¹.

Skaftafell National Park

In Skaftafell, hikers find trails of all levels. A popular hike leads to Svartifoss waterfall, passing by waterfalls and glaciers¹¹. This park is part of Vatnajökull, or “glacier’s rivers,” National Park. It showcases a diverse range of geological wonders in Iceland¹².

Landmannalaugar

Landmannalaugar offers a hike surrounded by colorful mountains, hot springs, and glaciers¹¹. This special landscape highlights Iceland’s unique geological variety¹¹.

“Iceland is bursting with must-see attractions. It has options for self-guided drives and tours, making the most of your visit.”¹¹

For those chasing the northern lights or nature’s beauty, Iceland is full of wonders¹¹. Its wide range of landscapes includes towering glaciers and vibrant mountains. Truly, Iceland is a paradise for nature lovers¹¹¹²¹³.

Norway – Best for Stunning Landscapes and Fjords

Norway is known for its stunning fjords and majestic mountains. Hikers and nature lovers find it a perfect place to visit. This is because Norway has laws that let people hike almost everywhere. The hiking trails are also well taken care of by the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT). So, Norway is a top pick for those who love beautiful natural views.

Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock)

One of Norway’s famous hikes is to Preikestolen, also known as Pulpit Rock¹⁴. It has a great view of the Lysefjord below. The Lysefjord is long, and at some points, it’s very narrow, which makes the scenery stunning¹⁴.

Trolltunga

Trolltunga, meaning “Troll’s Tongue,” is another spot not to miss in Norway¹⁴. It’s a tough but amazing hike. It leads to a rock that looks like a tongue sticking out from a cliff¹⁴. Nearby is the Geirangerfjord. It’s known for its steep sides and waterfalls, adding to the view¹⁴.

Norway’s fjords and tracks have become very popular, but many hidden gems are still around¹⁵. The Hjørundfjord area, for instance, is known for its hard but rewarding paths. It’s great for those who love a challenge¹⁴. The Romsdalsfjord is quite long and diverse, with unique points like Trollstigen road and Trollveggen¹⁴. In summer, the Trollfjord is a top pick, even for cruise ships, due to its narrow and steep beauty¹⁴.

“Norway’s access-to-wilderness laws and excellent hiking infrastructure, maintained by the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT), make it one of the best countries in the world for hiking.”

For anyone looking for a great adventure, Norway’s varied landscapes and excellent trails offer endless chances to get out and explore¹⁶.

Cultural Heritage Travel

Hiking isn’t just about nature. It’s also a way to connect with cultural heritage travel. The best trails take you through places rich in history and local life. You get to join cultural festivals, see historical sites, and learn from artisans¹⁷. This type of travel makes hiking even more special. It helps you understand and love the places you explore.

Heritage tourism is booming, with people spending $171 billion each year¹⁷. It’s great for meeting others and having unique experiences, with small groups of up to 25. To join, you need to be healthy enough to walk a couple of miles on uneven ground and climb stairs¹⁷. It’s also perfect for those traveling alone, as group meals are set up for everyone to chat and feel included¹⁷.

Research shows that many U.S. travelers love cultural and heritage trips. In fact, 81% of recent adult travelers enjoyed such experiences¹⁸. They spend more money, stay in hotels more, and travel longer than others¹⁸.

Around the globe, there are countless places for incredible cultural heritage travel. Let’s mention a few¹⁹,

Turkey boasts exceptional architectural masterpieces like Göbekli Tepe, Ephesus, and the Blue Mosque.
India offers iconic sites such as the Taj Mahal, Harmandir Sahib, and Ajanta and Ellora Caves.
Vietnam features rich cultural values and heritage sites like Hue, Hoi An Ancient Town, and the Mekong Delta.
China showcases landmarks like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and the Potala Palace.
Egypt provides heritage travel with the Great Pyramid of Giza, Luxor and Karnak temples, and traditional music and folklore performances.
UAE offers heritage exploration with sites like Al Ain Oasis, Fujairah Fort, and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
Japan presents heritage travel with its castles, temples, Mount Fuji, and the ancient Kumano Kodo route.
Greece stands out for heritage tourism with the Parthenon temple, Agora of Athens, and traditional art forms like bouzouki music and sirtaki dance.
Israel serves as an exceptional destination for Jewish heritage travel with sites like the Old City, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and Temple Mount.

Adding cultural heritage travel to hikes makes your journey incredible. You learn and respect the places you visit more. Cultural heritage tourism is growing fast. It lets you really connect with the living heritage you come across¹⁸.

Rakiura Track, New Zealand

In a hidden part of New Zealand, you can find the Rakiura Track on Stewart Island. This journey takes three days and you’ll see the country’s beauty. It covers a 32km path starting and ending in Oban²⁰.

This trip leads you through a rich podocarp forest filled with native bird life²¹. You’ll also see open beaches, wooded hills, and peaceful shores. Each step offers a new view to enjoy²¹.

During your hike, you can stay in North Arm and Port William Huts. Each spot has room for 24 people, so you’ll find a comfy place to sleep²⁰.

The Rakiura Track is open all year, unlike most in New Zealand. But, it’s best from November to April, when days are long and weather’s warm²⁰.

To get there, fly 20 minutes from Invercargill or take a 1-hour ferry from Bluff²⁰²¹. Once on the island, you can start walking from Oban or use a shuttle. There are also water taxis to take you to the huts²¹.

Remember, the weather can change quickly, so prepare well. Know the tides for safety getting to North Arm Hut. Use the Plan My Walk app and follow the Land Safety Code for a great time²¹²².

The Rakiura Track is perfect for a calm or challenging hike. It lets you dive into New Zealand’s stunning landscapes. With its varied scenery, warm huts, and wildlife, this trail is for anyone who loves the outdoors.

Hut/Campsite	Capacity	Cost per Night
North Arm Hut	24 bunks	NZD 24 (peak season) NZD 22 (off-peak)
Port William Hut	24 bunks	NZD 24 (peak season) NZD 22 (off-peak)
Campsites	–	NZD 6 per person

For the best hike, plan for two nights along the Rakiura Track. Start in Oban, walk through Maori Beach, and end at Port William²². If you’re looking to save money, camping costs NZD 6 per person, each night, any time of the year²².

“Exploring the Rakiura Track on Stewart Island is a truly unique and unforgettable experience. From the towering rimu forests to the serene coastal vistas, this hike offers a glimpse into the heart of New Zealand’s natural wonder.”

Ready for a memorable trek? Add the Rakiura Track to your must-hike list. It shows the best of New Zealand’s beauty in every step²⁰²¹²².

Greater Patagonian Trail, Chile and Argentina

Take on the wilds of Patagonia with the Greater Patagonian Trail. This modern adventure tests hikers. They must find their way using old paths, vast unknowns, and local customs. The trail spans both Chile and Argentina, promising real exploration through different, often tough, landscapes²³.

The Greater Patagonian Trail (GPT) is an amazing 20,000 km route through these countries. It has about 2,250 km of paths that connect. This means hikers can shape their own journey. Plus, hikers help by sharing their stories to make more trails and encourage eco-friendly tourism²⁴.

Many love Patagonia for its natural beauty and adventures²⁵. It has 19 different routes, ranging from famous spots like Torres del Paine to hidden gems. This allows hikers to see a great variety of wildlife. Think penguins, foxes, mountain lions, and condors²⁵.

The Greater Patagonian Trail throws challenges like crossing private land and experiencing local life. It’s a journey through various terrains and weathers. Here, hikers face tests of their tenacity and flexibility. But, they also find the thrill of exploring and coming closer to Patagonia’s untouched spirit²³²⁴.

“The Greater Patagonian Trail is a unique and captivating hiking experience that questions and expands the philosophical underpinnings of hiking.”

Are you ready for the Greater Patagonian Trail? It’s for those who want something beyond the usual trail experience, blending adventure and exploration deep in Patagonia²⁵²³²⁴.

Ocean to Lake Trail, Florida

Step into Florida’s varied landscapes with the captivating Ocean to Lake Trail. It’s a 61-mile part of the famous Florida Trail, showcasing the state’s natural beauty. You can explore serene swamps, find golden sand, and view tall cypresses and lush pines²⁶.

This trail is easier to access and has more facilities than the full Florida Trail. You’ll find many campsites, and it’s close to restaurants, with good cell service. This makes it great for hikers who want Florida’s wild side but not a lengthy hike²⁷.

Walking the trail, you’ll see various ecosystems It includes pine forests, wet prairies, cypress strands, and lush savannas. The scenery is a feast for the eyes²⁶. You’ll find plenty of plants like bromeliads, saw palmettos, and cabbage palms, along with bright wildflowers. There’s also a chance to spot alligators, panthers, and many birds²⁸.

Trail Highlights	Details
Length	61 miles linear²⁶
Fees	$3 per person, $6 per vehicle to park in Corbett WMA; no fee for Ocean to Lake hikers backpacking through the preserve²⁶
Contact	Phone number for land manager, Florida Fish & Wildlife: 561-624-6989²⁶
Access	The western end of the trail, Little Gopher Campsite, can be accessed from DuPuis Reserve or the Corbett trailhead for Hungryland Boardwalk²⁶
Directions	From Interstate 95, Northlake Blvd west for 12 miles to its end; from the Florida Turnpike, Okeechobee Blvd west 1 mile to Jog Rd, then drive north to the Beeline Hwy, turn left and follow SR 710 for 1.2 miles to where it meets Northlake Blvd, turn left and drive 8.9 miles to the end of the road, then follow specific directions towards Corbett WMA²⁶
Restrictions	Dogs are welcome on leashes; trail open 24 hours²⁶

The Ocean to Lake Trail lets you enjoy the diverse landscapes of the Florida Trail easily. It’s perfect for both experienced hikers and nature lovers. Here, you can enjoy the beauty of swamps, sand, cypresses, and pines²⁶.

“The Ocean to Lake Hike is a significant tradition for the Florida Trail Association, emphasizing the importance of the trail to the local communities.”²⁷

Route K, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia is known worldwide. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Every summer, over a million people come to see its beauty²⁹. The park covers a huge area of 73,000 acres. It’s home to 16 lakes that shift in color from deep blue to emerald green. These lakes are connected by waterfalls, making it a must-see²⁹. Route K is the park’s longest trail at 18.6 km. It’s a full-day hike that takes you through the whole park²⁹.

Visitors walk on boardwalks. These offer amazing views of forests, farms, and waterfalls. The park is popular but still has many wild animals like wolves and black bears. This adds to the thrill of exploring³⁰.

How long it takes to drive from big cities in Croatia to Plitvice Lakes: Zagreb is 135 km away (2 hours and 15 minutes). Zadar is 136 km (2 hours). Split is 260 km (3 hours). Dubrovnik is 450 km (5 hours). Staying overnight is smart to start your visit early and miss the big crowds²⁹.

It’s suggested to take certain paths for the best visit. Combining Program C and Program H is great. It lets you see the lower and upper lakes²⁹. Start from Entrance 1 in the early morning. This way, you catch the best views of the waterfalls at the lower lakes²⁹.

At Plitvice, there are seven paths to choose from. Each one is different in how long it takes, how far you walk, and how hard it is²⁹. For example, Program A takes 2-3 hours and covers 3.5 km. Program B takes 3-4 hours and covers 4 km. On the other hand, Programs E and F start from Entrance 2. They are 2-3 hours and 5.1 km, and 3-4 hours and 4.6 km, respectively²⁹.

Route K is a full-day trail. It goes around the lower and upper lakes. It also shows the Jezero Kozjak. This hike is a deep dive into the park’s natural wonders and wildlife³⁰²⁹³¹.

Backbone Trail, California

Located in the Santa Monica Mountains, the Backbone Trail is a haven for hikers. It gives a chance to see a rare Mediterranean environment. And you can see beautiful ocean views from high up, several thousand feet above Los Angeles³². Many come here to hike or run because it stretches 67 miles through the mountains³². You will journey through different terrains, such as chaparral and oak woodlands, immersing yourself in nature fully³³³⁴.

Campsites are scarce along this trail, but you can get help. Ask a friend to pick you up. Or, hire a guide through the Santa Monica Mountains Trails Council. This way you can find a place to stay, though it might cost more³². To do the whole Backbone Trail non-stop is a big challenge. People compare it to well-known trails like the Appalachian and the John Muir Trail³².

There are 12 official access points on the Backbone Trail, making it great for day hikes³². Many choose to hike it in four days, doing up to 20 miles each day. Others prefer to explore smaller parts, enjoying the various landscapes at their own pace.

This trail is rich in history because it passes through the lands of the Tongva and Chumash people³³. Long ago, Chinese officials found peace in these mountains, practicing something called “jing.”³³ Today, the Backbone Trail shows a mix of challenge and peace. It lets you feel one with nature and old traditions³³.

If you love hiking, running, or just want to be close to nature, the Backbone Trail in the Santa Monica Mountains is a great choice. This place guarantees an amazing and life-changing experience³²³³³⁴.,,

Chilkoot Trail, Alaska

Tucked in Alaska’s wilds, the Chilkoot Trail weaves a tale for nature buffs and thrill-seekers. It began as a crucial path for the Tlingit people and later drew gold hunters in the Klondike rush³⁵. Nowadays, it invites everyone to explore relics from the gold rush era along its path.

This 33-mile path starts in Dyea, a ghost town in Alaska. It peaks at the Canadian border’s Chilkoot Pass then drops to Bennett Lake³⁶. Hiking it lets you see three different zones, from rainforests to open views, putting your stamina to the test.

Hikers must get a permit from Parks Canada due to the border’s current closure, set to reopen in August 2023³⁵. For the Canadian stretch, permits run from June 1 to September 13 in 2024³⁵. Over on the U.S. side, plan for a 7-hour day trip³⁵ and know there are nine campsites for overnight stays³⁵.

To get ready for the trail, a 30-minute orientation is a must in Skagway³⁵. For 2024, booking starts on April 25³⁵. The best times to hike are from June to early September³⁵.

For a different adventure, check out the artists-in-residence scheme on the Chilkoot Trail. It runs for 2 weeks and has unique rules for dog hikers³⁵.

The Chilkoot Trail blends a remarkable history, amazing scenery, and tough paths for those who love the outdoors. It’s perfect for anyone looking to dive into the Klondike gold rush story or simply wanting a life-changing hike in Alaska’s wilderness.

“The Chilkoot Trail was a major path for gold miners during the Klondike Gold Rush of 1898.”³⁶

Chilkoot Trail Statistics	Details
Trail Length	53-km (33-miles)³⁶
Elevation Gain	1000m (3500 ft)³⁶
Crossing the Border	The trail crosses the border between the United States and Canada at Chilkoot Pass³⁶.
Permit System	The U.S. National Park Service and Parks Canada allow a maximum of 50 backpackers to start the trail each day through a permit system³⁶.
Hiking Season	The hiking season usually starts in late May and ends in early September, with peak demand from June to August³⁶.
Fastest Known Time	The fastest known time for running the Chilkoot Trail is 5 hours and 27 minutes, achieved by ultramarathoner Geoff Roes³⁶.
Climatic Zones	The trail is divided into three climatic zones: coastal rainforest, high alpine, and boreal forest³⁶.
Archeological Surveys	Archeologists began surveying ice patches on the Chilkoot Trail in 2016 to determine if they contained archeological materials and to document and preserve any cultural resources that emerged³⁷.

³⁵³⁶³⁷

Trans-Bhutan Trail, Bhutan

The Trans-Bhutan Trail cuts through stunning Bhutan, showing off its wild land and deep culture³⁸. It’s 403km long, from Haa in the west to Trashigang in the east. Along the way, you’ll see 27 Gewogs, 4 Dzongs, and much more³⁸.

Passing through beautiful scenes like rice fields, hidden villages, and busy towns, it’s a trip through Bhutanese culture³⁸. Thanks to a big 2018 project, the trail got a lot better. They fixed 18 bridges and made sure it’s good for hikers³⁸.

It goes up to altitudes of 3,900 – 4,000 meters but also has lower parts³⁸. You can pick from easy to hard paths. There’s even a 36-day option for those wanting to see it all³⁸.

“I hadn’t seen a tourist on the Trans Bhutan Trail in three years,” remarked a local woman, highlighting the trail’s remote and untouched nature³⁹.

Building up the trail was tough work. The crew had to make new bridges and clear paths³⁹. Titu kept everyone fed. The journey was hard, with rains that made the trail slippery³⁹. Thankfully, Sonam was there to warn about bears, making the hike safe³⁹.

The Trans-Bhutan Trail lets you see stunning Himalayan views and the famous Paro Taktsang monastery. Whether you take on the long or short route, it’s a special journey. It will show you Bhutan’s natural beauty and its unique way of life⁴⁰.

Day	Distance (km/miles)	Elevation (m/ft)	Duration (hours)
1	14.3 / 8.9	–	6-7
4	14.92 / 9.27	–	7-8
5	12.81 / 7.96	–	7-8
6	17.53 / 10.89	–	7-8
3	–	2,772 / 9,095 – 2,375 / 7,792 (max 3,684 / 12,087)	–
7	–	–	–

You’ll reach 3,994 meters high at its peak. Then, on Day 7, you go down to the Debsi Valley and see Simtokha Dzong, a beautiful old place from 1629⁴⁰.

The Trans-Bhutan Trail is your chance to explore Himalayan beauty and Bhutanese life. Offering both tough and easy journeys, it’s a unique way to experience Bhutan. This adventure is sure to leave a lasting memory³⁸³⁹⁴⁰.

USA – Best for Diverse Landscapes

The USA is a top pick for those who love hiking⁴¹. It’s packed with 24 UNESCO sites, offering unmatched natural beauty. You can walk through places like the Great Plains, the Grand Canyon, and more. Each trail is ready for anyone interested, no matter their level⁴¹.

If you’re after true wilderness, look no further. Here, you’ll find three famous long-distance trails. These include the Pacific Crest Trail, the Appalachian Trail, and the Continental Divide Trail. They let you see the country’s wild sides, from Redwood Forests to Alaska’s vast lands. Don’t miss the chance to see Denali, the highest U.S. peak⁴¹.

Looking for something off the beaten path? The USA has plenty. Hawaii, for example, is a hiker’s dream. You’ll find waterfalls, volcanoes, and unique plants and animals. It’s a must-see for nature lovers⁴¹.

UNESCO World Heritage Site	Highlights
Mesa Verde National Park	More than 4,000 discovered archaeological sites including 600 cliff dwellings⁴¹
Poverty Point	Man-made structures made 3,700-3,100 years ago⁴¹
Mission Concepcion	Part of a stretch of 12-kilometers with five mission complexes⁴¹
Statue of Liberty	Gifted to the USA by the French in 1876⁴¹
Taos Pueblo	Established in the late 13th to early 14th century, representing the culture of Pueblo Indians⁴¹
Fallingwater	One of eight Frank Lloyd Wright buildings recognized by UNESCO in 2019⁴¹

⁴² The U.S. has nine UNESCO cultural sites. They show the country’s rich history and diverse culture. From Cahokia Mounds in Illinois to Taos Pueblo’s architecture in Arizona, it’s full of awe-inspiring places⁴².

⁴² Also, don’t miss the Chaco Culture park in New Mexico. It has amazing “greathouses” and the Poverty Point Earthworks in Louisiana. They are from 3,500 years back. Both are important to the U.S.’s history⁴².

⁴³ The U.S. may not be top for cultural travel, but it’s not to be missed. Try Paisa cuisine in Colombia or see Cuba’s vintage cars. In these places, you’ll see the U.S.’s blend of cultures and resilient spirit⁴³.

“The USA is a land of endless possibilities, where nature’s grandeur and human innovation collide to create an unparalleled canvas for the intrepid explorer.”

Chile – Patagonia and the Andes

Chile is top for those who love to hike, especially in Patagonia and the Andes. The Chile trip noted here is a 12-day adventure. It blends Easter Island explorations, a Patagonia adventure, and visits to Valparaiso and the wine country⁴⁴. You get a 10% discount at the Explora properties in Patagonia. It’s suggested to spend at least 4 days on Easter Island to see all the sights⁴⁴.

Torres del Paine National Park is iconic. It’s been named one of the most beautiful places by National Geographic. The park has amazing trails by glaciers, lakes, and the famous granite towers⁴⁵. Both Torres del Paine and Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina see many visitors each year⁴⁵.

Chile has more than Patagonia to offer. There’s the Atacama Desert, Cochamó Valley’s rainforests, and the large Lake District. These places offer different experiences for hikers⁴⁴. Knowmad Adventures creates special trips to Easter Island, Patagonia, and more in Chile⁴⁴.

The Chile trip features private winery tours. Guests get to do special barrel tastings in Casablanca Valley. There are guided tours of Santiago, Easter Island, and Valparaiso⁴⁴. For trip prices and details, contact a Knowmad Trip Specialist by calling 612-315-2894 or emailing [email protected]⁴⁴.

In Patagonia, you can see a lot of wildlife, including the Big Five. This includes pumas, guanacos, and more⁴⁵. The Chile & Argentina Ultimate Patagonia Hiking tour lasts 13 days and costs $8,995. It’s rated as Level 4 in terms of activity⁴⁶. It’s available in several months and includes stays in comfortable hotels and rustic lodges⁴⁶.

The tour’s plan includes hikes of various lengths and difficulties. For example, Day 2 has a 2.5 hour hike with 565 feet of elevation change. Day 3 is a bit harder, with a 4-hour hike and a catamaran ride⁴⁶.

“Patagonia offers a unique blend of rugged landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural heritage that make it a premier hiking destination for adventurous travelers.”

Whether you want to see the grand sights of Torres del Paine or visit the Atacama Desert, Chile is perfect for hiking. Set off on a path of discovery and enjoy the wild beauty and adventure that this exceptional region offers.⁴⁴⁴⁵⁴⁶

Conclusion

You’ve journeyed across top hiking trails, from Switzerland and Nepal’s peaks to New Zealand and the U.S.’s diverse sceneries. There are many chances to experience cultural heritage travel⁴⁷. By diving into local customs, visiting historical spots, and meeting indigenous people, you grow to love and understand the places you visit⁴⁸. These paths offer great chances to see stunning nature, learn about cultures, and experience the cultural history of places.

Take Córdoba’s⁴⁹ Citadel of the Catholic King as an example. It drew over 615,000 visitors in 2019 and has seen a 10.69% growth over the last decade. The U.S. also boasts numerous must-see historical and cultural sites. Cultural travel is swiftly becoming a popular choice in tourism⁴⁹. People who visit these places often end up loving them and telling others to visit too, increasing their value⁴⁹.

Whether you love hiking or are new to it, seize the chance to experience amazing cultural and historical sites on these trails. Each place you visit offers unique stories, customs, and wisdom passed down through generations. These experiences will stay with you forever⁴⁸. There’s endless potential for cultural travel, so set off on your next journey ready to soak in all it offers.

FAQ

What are some of the best countries for hiking around the world?

Switzerland, New Zealand, Nepal, Iceland, Norway, the United States, and Chile are top picks for hikers. They boast incredible scenery and rich cultural experiences. Each country offers a unique adventure for those who love to hike.

What makes Switzerland a great destination for hiking?

Switzerland is famous for its beautiful landscapes. It has high mountains, green meadows, and scenic alpine views. The country has various places like the Oberland, Valais, and Bernese regions. Hikers of all levels can find trails that fit their skills.

What are some of the top hiking destinations in New Zealand?

New Zealand’s natural beauty is its main draw. Hiking spots like Fiordland, Tongariro, and Abel Tasman are amazing. They offer diverse environments including forests, mountains, and coastlines. Hikers will find stunning views wherever they go.

Why is Nepal a great destination for budget-conscious hikers?

Nepal has some of the best and most affordable hiking routes. The Annapurna Circuit, Everest Base Camp, and Langtang Valley are popular treks. They allow you to explore the Himalayas and experience local cultures without breaking the bank.

What makes Iceland unique for hiking?

Iceland stands out for its unique scenery. It has glaciers, volcanoes, and hot springs. The Laugavegur Trail, Skaftafell, and Landmannalaugar are popular spots. They let you see Iceland’s natural wonders up close.

What makes Norway a great destination for hiking?

Norway is a hiker’s dream with its vast mountains and deep fjords. The country is very hiker-friendly thanks to the DNT and access laws. It’s a great place to explore the wilderness on foot.

How can hiking provide cultural heritage travel experiences?

Hiking often leads through areas with a rich history and culture. You can join local events, visit ancient sites, and meet artisans. This gives you a chance to learn about the area’s past and current traditions.

What is the Rakiura Track in New Zealand?

The Rakiura Track is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. It offers a three-day, leisurely walk. At night, you can see kiwi birds feeding. The track has huts and camps, making it an easy and fun hike.

What is the Greater Patagonian Trail?

The Greater Patagonian Trail is not a conventional trail. It’s a mix of paths, roads, and wild areas. Hikers must find their way. This experience tests your skills and immerses you in local life and nature.

What is the Ocean to Lake Trail in Florida?

The Ocean to Lake Trail in Florida covers 61 miles. It’s part of the longer Florida Trail. This path showcases Florida’s varied nature. It’s well-serviced with camps, food spots, and cell coverage for an easy exploration.