They say that the world is small but a walker knows how vast it is. They say beauty is in our concrete palaces and digital machines, but a hiker knows true beauty. And what can it be? Well, it is Nature. For those who have chained themselves to the luxuries of their particular world, the word “nature”, which boils down to flashing an image of a small garden in their mind, would never tickle them. So, it’s time for you to put on your hiking boots and pack everything you could possibly need in your backpack, from that handy flashlight to a delicious sleeping bag. Then take that small step that will take you out of the concrete world and into the wild, where every day is a great adventure. These are some of the most beautiful trails, full of beauty and natural wonders.
1. Zion Canyon, United States
Have you ever been to the Narrows? Well, if not, imagine a 16-mile-long stretch of river, flanked on both sides by a wall of gigantic red rocks that transform it into one of the longest and most spectacular canyons the world has ever seen. Now imagine walking, knees submerged or maybe waist submerged (depending on the season), across that cold river with nothing more than a trekking pole to warn you of the depth of the water (and to give you support). . So if rocks and rivers fascinate you, get ready for a wet hike through the picturesque canyon of Zion National Park (by the way, the park accepts up to 80 hikers a day).
2. Tongariro Northern Circuit, New Zealand
Something hotter than fire (or any female aphrodisiac) lurks within Mount Ngauruhoe. Do you know what is it? Yes, lava, hot molten lava! Now, before I encourage you to embark on the Tongariro Northern Circuit, which circles this spectacular volcanic mountain, let me warn you: Mount Ngauruhoe is not inactive but an active volcanic peak, ready to pour lava on you. Still, no hiker can avoid inching up to the wondrous lava pits and craters for a closer look. Add that Emerald Lake nearby and this volcanic stretch is a wonderful scene.
Speaking of mountains, you’d be thrilled to know that Mount Kilimanjaro, despite its intimidating altitude of around 19,340 feet, requires no mountaineering experience or complex equipment to reach the top. No wonder, it is advertised as the “highest walkable mountain in the world”. Any hiker can handle it, albeit with care.
3. Annapurna Circuit Tour, Nepal
In the humble territory of Nepal -a country sandwiched between two enormous neighbors-, Everest can be seen (yes, that is the summit of the world… 8848m, to be precise), not to mention seven other noble snow-capped peaks that make it to the list of the “ten highest mountains” with its incredible altitude of more than eight thousand meters. Included among these mighty mountains is the Annapurna, and it is not only famous for its altitude 8, but rather popular for the many excellent hiking trails it offers travelers. While you can brave the beautiful trail to Annapurna Base Camp in about 13 days, we insist on the 19-day Annapurna Circuit trek. The reason is that it offers more diverse landscapes, ranging from impressive Himalayan peaks to lush forests, poignant waterfalls, scenic landscapes, holy temples, and yes, roaring rivers. In short, the Annapurna Circuit is a beautiful package, although altitude sickness can be a major hindrance.
4. Inca Trail, Peru
While the ancient Quechua tribe and their royal Inca empire may have been lost to the pages of history and myth, their mighty fortress city still stands majestically in what we now call Peru. And it is to that remote city of mystical and archaeological wonders that this Inca trail leads. The only danger here would be tripping over that uneven stone staircase, which stretches for around 15,000 careful steps or so. It will take you around four or five days to explore this Inca empire. And, while in Peru, it would also be nice to try the beautiful Santa Cruz hike, weather permitting.
5. Kalalau Trail, Hawaii
We don’t underestimate the beauty of Italy’s Cinque Terre (the pretty seaside towns are a sight to see at night) or the Tour du Mont Blanc (stretches over 100 miles and connects three countries, namely France, Italy and Switzerland) but nonetheless, we’d like to recommend Hawaii Island’s Kalalau Trail for a beautiful hike (just be sure to bring mosquito repellant or the patrolling bloodsuckers won’t leave you alone). Wherever you stop or stop along this 11-mile long hike, the lush green vegetation and that seascape will be a constant wonder. The prize for walkers, who make it to the end of this strenuous trail (the ground can be slippery, and you’ll wish you had brought a trekking pole), is magnificent Kalalau Beach, quiet, serene and far from the roaring crowds. of civilization