Top Five Hiking Destinations in the World

If you have been cooped up in an office or a city too long, it is time to escape the concrete jungle and head to nature for some recreational hiking. Hiking is a great way to exercise the body while taking in some breathtaking views. You might also want to consider a camping trip with no light pollution to hamper viewing the bright night sky full of stars. There are a ton of meteor showers that will light up the sky all year round and the best place to see nature’s fireworks is to hike out and stake your place in a deserted location free from cities. 

Hiking is also a great opportunity for you to practice photography skills and to explore the world. Save money on hotels and really use your legs to see nature’s breathtaking sights. No matter if you are studying abroad, interning abroad, volunteering, or just traveling for other reasons, hiking is something you can do solo or with a group of your new friends. Hiking is great for bonding as well as team building. Do not just go visit the same touristy areas as everyone else. Get off the grid! If you are ready to take a nature break, here are the top five hiking destinations across the globe. 

1. Cinque Terre, Italy

If you are transitioning from the city to the hiking life, Cinque Terre is a great start. This coastal walk hits up five villages along a scenic cliff route that overlooks the Italian Riviera. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

2. Te Araroa Trail, New Zealand

This 3000 km walk has everything from sections that only take 1-2 hours all the way to treks that last over a week. To go the whole length would take three to six months, so this could be an option for an ambitious digital nomad. Along the way you will be able to see volcanoes, rivers, and lakes. 

3. Mount Fuji, Japan

Climbing Mount Fuji is a cultural heritage that many Japanese continue to this day. This is a challenging hike for locals and foreigners so make sure that you do your research beforehand. There are four routes: the Yoshida Trail (recommended for first-timers), the Subashiri Trail, the Gotemba Trail, and the Fujinomiya Trail. 

4. The Monte Fitz Roy Trail, Patagonia, border between Argentina and Chile 

If you are into picturesque mountain hikes, you might want to give the Monte Fitz Roy Trail a try. It is located in Parque Nacional Los Glaciers and offers a lot of different trails and routes that take two days and up.

5. Torres del Paine, Chile

The Torres del Paine National Park has mountains, glaciers, and lakes-a-plenty. While there are lots of activities offered here including horseback riding and climbing, hiking is a must. This park offers a variety of trails and each has stunning views that will leave you wanting more. 

Some other possibilities for hiking trips include: El Choro Inca Trail, Bolivia; Inca Trail, Peru; Tour du Mont Blanc, Switzerland, Italy, and France; Cloud Forests, Costa Rica; and Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania.