5 of the Best Hikes Around the World

Nikole Stewart |

Updated: Mar 17, 2025

Best Hikes Around the World Unsplash — Credit: Unsplash

If you’re looking for a trip guaranteed to challenge you and reward you with breathtaking, once-in-a-lifetime views, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re seeking personal achievement or love the outdoors, these five hikes around the globe are well worth the adventure.

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1. Kilimanjaro

image of hikers camping in tents at the base of Kilimanjaro, one of the best places in the world to camp. — Credit: Getty Images for Unsplash+

Africa is for much more than wildlife safaris (though those should be on your bucket list, too). Located in Tanzania, Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa and the highest free-standing mountain in the world.

One of the seven summits, Kilimanjaro, welcomes approximately 25,000 people yearly to attempt the 19,341-foot climb. Hikers can choose one of the seven major routes, the most popular being the 7-day Machame, 8-day Lemosho, and 9-day Northern Circuit routes.

Regardless of your path, you’ll pass five distinct climate zones on your way to the “Roof of Africa.” It’s important to do your research before heading to Kilimanjaro if it’s on your bucket list. Is your trekking company associated with Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP)? KPAP is a non-profit that monitors the ethical treatment of guide teams on Kilimanjaro.

This non-profit ensures proper treatment of the crew, which includes minimum wages for the guides, crew, and cooks. It also ensures three meals a day for the entire team, proper gear, appropriate sleeping and space accommodations, and more.

2. Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Image of the Inca Trail in Machu Pichu, which is one of the best places to hike in the entire world. — Credit: Unsplash

There are different ways to get to the iconic UNESCO World Heritage site, but nothing beats the experience of hiking the historic Inca Trail. Trekking through 15 different eco-systems, exploring small villages that appear almost frozen in time while traversing a mountain pass at 15,000 feet, the unique opportunity to experience this Land of the Incas will be challenging and enlightening.

Thinking of traveling to the crown jewel of the Inca Empire? Entrance into Machu Picchu is only available to those with an officially registered tour guide. With a capacity of 2,500 visitors per day, pre-booking well in advance is essential.

3. Dolomites

Image of hiker sitting on the grass looking over a view of the Dolomites, the best place to hike in Italy and the world. — Credit: Unsplash+

Another one of the best hikes around the world is located in northern Italy. The Dolomites are a longtime favorite, and for a good reason. And with several options for every type of outdoor enthusiast, from short, flat hikes to challenging trekking with significant elevation changes, travelers can choose between day hikes and multi-day excursions.

Although, need a break from walking? Riding a gondola part of the way is a popular option. There are even rifugios (huts for overnight hikers) accessible via gondola. However, whatever option you choose, don’t forget to take in the views. The trails boast dramatic mountain peaks, wild alpine meadows, and scenic valleys. A multi-cultural region, it’s common to encounter different languages and cuisines, predominantly Italian, Austrian, and Ladin.

4. Mount Gimie in Saint Lucia

Image of a beach with Mount Gimie in St. Lucia in the the background, which makes for a great place to hike. — Credit: Unsplash

But one of the truly unique island experiences hiking enthusiasts can arrange is a guided day hike up Mount Gimie, Saint Lucia’s tallest mountain.

Volcanic in origin and covered in lush tropical rainforest, the mountain’s peak reaches 3,117 feet. Completion of the trek takes between 5 to 9 hours, depending on the hiker’s speed. Trekking through two valleys, along a creek, and up and down on a barely visible trail, the steep terrain requires proper hiking gear and steady footing. Reward your hard work at the spa of one of Saint Lucia’s luxury resorts.

5. Trek in Patagonia

Image of two people hiking in Patagonia, Chile. You'll find stunning scenery and viewpoints and it's one of the best places to hike in the world. — Credit: Unsplash

Chilean Patagonia is home to the stunningly breathtaking Torres del Paine National Park. Best experienced on foot, the remote region is home to the famous W Trek hiking route. Typically done in less than a week, with options to camp at designated campsites or book a bunk bed at a refugio.

The highlights of the national park are Valle Francés, the Base of the Torres del Paine Towers, and Glacier Grey. Particularly busy in December and January, those looking for solitude on the trails should try earlier in the season.

Though hiking is arguably the most popular activity, there is also kayaking (later in the season), horseback riding, and mountain biking activities available in designated areas of the park. Need a pro tip for your Patagonia adventure? Invest in a durable windbreaker. Patagonia typically has between 10 to 13 miles per hour of wind throughout the year.