Best Countries for Trekking: 6 Trail-Rich Destinations
Hiking and trekking have a significant impact on both your body and mind, which cannot be underestimated. Apart from improving your overall fitness, these activities also help relieve stress, socialize with other people, and even develop your soft skills, such as organizing and time management.
And to enhance your trekking experience even more, you can add increased cultural understating to this list. However, in order to experience it to the fullest, you will need to get out of your comfort zone and see the world’s most stunning trails in person.
Below, you will find a list of the six best countries for trekking from all over the world, ranging from Nepal and the United States to New Zealand and Argentina, among others. Read on and take your trekking to a whole new level!
Nepal
Located in South Asia, Nepal is another top destination for trekking enthusiasts. This country boasts some of the most spectacular high-altitude treks that will make you feel like you’re on top of the world. If you’re a fan of hiking with a twist, Nepal is the place to go. In addition to the challenging hikes, you can also explore Nepal’s rich heritage, which includes magnificent Buddhist and Hindu temples.
Mt. Everest Base Camp is perhaps one of the most popular treks in Nepal, so if you’ve always wanted to see the “roof of the world” in person, this is the perfect place to do it. However, you can find the best treks in Nepal alongside plenty of guided tours that you can choose from with different starting points and destinations.
However, if you prefer to take a break from organized tours, you should get up close and personal with the stunning Himalayas by joining expeditions with local guides. Some of the most popular treks in Nepal include Annapurna Circuit, Everest Base Camp, and the Langtang Valley Trek.
New Zealand
Arguably one of the most popular destinations for trekking in the world, New Zealand’s picturesque landscapes and diverse wildlife offer the best of what nature has to offer. From the majestic snow-capped mountains to the lush rainforests, you can see almost every type of landscape here. The country is home to endless trails and mountain ranges, so you will indeed have a fantastic time hiking here.
There are many guided tours that you can join, but you should opt for backpacking on your own if you prefer more freedom and flexibility. The popular Routeburn, Milford, and Kepler tracks are great options for beginners as they are relatively easy to hike.
However, if you’re looking for more challenges, you should check out the Fiordland National Park, which is located on the South Island of New Zealand. This incredible region boasts lots of steep hills and valleys, which make it perfect for adrenaline junkies.
If you’re looking for an incredible hiking experience, then you should visit New Zealand. This country boasts some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world, and you can either choose from one of the many adventure tours or take a more relaxed hike through the countryside. Apart from Milford and Routeburn tracks, some of the most popular regions for hiking in New Zealand include Tongariro Alpine Crossing and Abel Tasman Coast Track.
Norway
Located on the North Atlantic Ocean coast, Norway’s breathtaking landscapes are a sight to behold with its stunning fjords and glaciers. This Scandinavian country offers some of the most spectacular hikes in Europe. It is home to the stunning West Norgeian Fjords - Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord - which make up part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The mountainous region features steep hills and valleys with tons of small streams and waterfalls on each side. The area also boasts some of Europe’s highest peaks, like Galdhøpiggen at 2469 meters. You can hike from one side of the fjord to the other without even crossing a single road! If you prefer more challenging hikes, you should get up close and personal with some glaciers in the Jotunheimen region.
There are plenty of guided tours that you can join, but if you prefer more freedom and flexibility, then you should go with backpacking instead. Some of the most popular treks in Norway include Hardangerfjord, Romsdalseggen Ridge, and Jotunheimen National Park.
United States
With its remote wilderness and excellent terrain for hiking, the United States is another superb destination for trekking enthusiasts. There are plenty of national parks spread across this vast country, so it shouldn’t be hard to find an adventure to suit your taste.
From the Rocky Mountains to the Sierra Nevada, there are plenty of mountains to climb and trails to follow. Some of the most popular national parks for trekking include Yosemite, Sequoia National Park, and Yellowstone. The Grand Canyon National Park is also another popular hiking destination in America’s Southwest region. Here, you can either hike or take a mule down into the canyon itself.
Perhaps one of the most famous trails in the United States is the Appalachian Trail, which stretches from north to south and passes through 14 states.
Argentina
Located in South America, Argentina is yet another top destination for hiking enthusiasts. It boasts some stunning landscapes with sprawling grasslands and beautiful lakes at its feet. The region of Patagonia in Argentina boasts some of the most stunning landscapes in the world. In addition to its picturesque mountains, the area also features expansive grasslands with spectacular views.
For example, if you want to see the breathtaking Iguazu Falls from above, then you have to hike along a trail that goes all around them. Just make sure that you bring a waterproof jacket or poncho with you as it might rain at any time.
If you’re looking for more challenging hikes, you should visit the Andes Mountains. Here, you can find lots of steep hills and rocky trails that are perfect for trekking. Some of the most popular treks in Argentina include Lake District, Iguazu Falls, and El Chalten.
South Africa
Known for its natural beauty and excellent wildlife, South Africa is another excellent destination for hiking enthusiasts. The country boasts rolling grasslands and stunning mountains, so there are plenty of options to choose from.
If you want to test your limits, then you should visit the Drakensberg Mountain Range. This part of the country boasts steep hills and valleys that will undoubtedly give you a good workout. The highest peak in South Africa is located here, too, so you will indeed have an amazing time climbing up to the top. Other popular destinations for hiking in South Africa include Cape Town and Lesotho.
Conclusion
Hiking is a great way to explore the world’s most beautiful landscapes in person, especially if you enjoy staying active and want to experience the best that nature has to offer. And if you’re planning to take a hiking trip, it would be wise to plan ahead and get the right gear before you go.
This way, you can prepare for all sorts of weather conditions and have the best time of your life on the trail!