Exploring the planet on foot is one of the most immersive and rewarding ways to connect with nature. From the high-altitude trails of the Himalayas to the cloud forests of the Peruvian Andes, the best treks in the world offer awe-inspiring beauty, cultural richness, and physical challenges.
Whether you’re navigating high passes, admiring glacial lakes, or gazing at snow-capped peaks, these treks are bucket-list experiences for any traveler. Join us with Machu Travel Peru to discover the routes that you can do. So grab your backpack and here we go!
Join us as we discover the best trekking routes in the world
- Everest Base Camp, Nepal
- Inca Trail, Peru
- Torres del Paine, Chile
- Annapurna Circuit, Nepal
- Camino de Santiago, Spain
- Laugavegur Trail, Iceland
- Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
- Overland Track, Australia
- Huayhuash Circuit, Peru
- GR20, Corsica, France
- The Dolomites Alta Via 1, Italy
- The Snowman Trek, Bhutan
- Druk Path Trek, Bhutan
- The John Muir Trail, United States
- Salkantay Trek, Peru
- Tour du Mont Blanc, France, Italy, Switzerland
- Hayduke Trail, Utah & Arizona, United States
- Laugavegur Trail, Iceland
- Santa Cruz Trek,Cordillera Blanca, Peru
- Bibbulmun Track Western, Australia
- Barrancas del Cobre, Mexico
1. Everest Base Camp, Nepal
Perhaps the most iconic trek on the planet, the Everest Base Camp trek is both a physical feat and a spiritual journey. This 12 to 15-day trail leads you through remote Sherpa villages, centuries-old monasteries, and dramatic Himalayan landscapes. You’ll pass glacial lakes, black ash slopes, and reach Kala Patthar for unforgettable mountain views.
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Highest Point: Kala Patthar (5,545 m)
- On route: Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche
2. Inca Trail, Peru
A legendary route to the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail is a must for history and adventure lovers. This 4-day trek climbs high-altitude passes, winds through cloud forests, and reveals awe-inspiring ruins along the way. The trail leads to the Sun Gate at sunrise for a dramatic view of Machu Picchu.
Planning a trip to Peru? Make sure your Peru packing list includes layers for varying temperatures, sturdy footwear, and rain protection.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highest Point: Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215 m)
- On route: Llactapata, Runkurakay, Phuyupatamarca
3. Torres del Paine, Chile
Located in Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park, the W Trek is a breathtaking 5 to 7-day journey. It traverses vast river valleys, turquoise glacial lakes, and snow-capped peaks. The highlight is the granite towers that give the park its name, surrounded by raw Patagonian wilderness.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highest Point: John Gardner Pass (approx. 1,200 m)
- On route: Base Torres, French Valley, Grey Glacier
4. Annapurna Circuit, Nepal
One of the most celebrated treks in the Himalayas, the Annapurna Circuit loops around the Annapurna mountain range. Over 15 days, trekkers experience everything from subtropical river valleys to high-altitude desert landscapes. Thorong La Pass, the highest point, offers panoramic mountain views.
The trail leads through Buddhist villages, pine forests, and dramatic black ash terrain.
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Highest Point: Thorong La Pass (5,416 m)
- On route: Manang, Muktinath, Jomsom
5. Camino de Santiago, Spain
More than just a trek, the Camino de Santiago is a pilgrimage rich in history and tradition. The French Way covers over 800 km, passing through medieval towns, rolling fields, and ancient churches. Although not a high altitude trek, its spiritual and cultural rewards are immense.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highest Point: O Cebreiro (1,300 m)
- Recommended Duration: 30–35 days (can be done in sections)
6. Laugavegur Trail, Iceland
This other worldly trek across Iceland’s highlands takes 4 to 6 days and includes volcanic valleys, rhyolite mountains covered in black ash, and stunning glacial lakes. Starting in Landmannalaugar and ending in Pórsmörk, it’s one of the most visually unique treks on Earth.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highest Point: Hrafntinnusker (approx. 1,100 m)
- On route: Álftavatn, Emstrur, Pórsmörk
7. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, attracts trekkers worldwide. The Machame Route is popular for its scenic diversity starting in rainforest, transitioning through alpine desert, and culminating at the snow-capped Uhuru Peak. The high altitude makes acclimatization crucial.
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Highest Point: Uhuru Peak (5,895 m)
- Duration: 7–9 days
- On route: Shira Plateau, Barranco Wall, Stella Point
8. Overland Track, Australia
Spanning 65 km through Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, the Overland Track is a remote and pristine experience. You’ll pass through ancient cloud forests, rugged peaks, and alpine glacial lakes. Wildlife sightings include wombats, wallabies, and even echidnas.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highest Point: Mount Ossa (1,617 m)
- On route: Barn Bluff, Lake Windermere, Pelion Plains
9. Huayhuash Circuit, Peru
One of the most remote and jaw-dropping treks in the world, the Huayhuash Circuit in Peru offers alpine drama on a grand scale. Over 10 to 15 days, the trail leads through high passes and turquoise glacial lakes surrounded by peaks towering over 6,000 meters. The isolation and difficulty make this a serious adventure.
For anyone planning a trip to Peru, this trek is a must-consider, but don’t forget your Peru packing list should include cold weather gear and altitude medication.
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Highest Point: San Antonio Pass (5,020 m)
- On route: Carhuacocha, Huayhuash, Jahuacocha
10. GR20, Corsica, France
Known as one of Europe’s toughest treks, the GR20 traverses Corsica’s jagged mountains from Northwest to Southeast. Expect rocky ridges, deep forests, mountain views, and demanding terrain. It takes 12 to 15 days to complete, with challenging climbs and basic refuges.
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Highest Point: Monte Cinto (2,706 m)
- On route: Calenzana, Vizzavona, Conca
11. The Dolomites Alta Via 1, Italy
The Alta Via 1 is a classic trek through the breathtaking Dolomites mountain range in northern Italy. Spanning about 120 kilometers over 10-12 days, this trek combines striking jagged peaks, alpine meadows, and charming rifugios. The trail leads through diverse terrain, offering constant mountain views and the chance to savor Italian hospitality en route.
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Highest Point: Lagazuoi (2,752 m)
- On route: Lago di Braies, Rifugio Lagazuoi, Passo Giau
12. The Snowman Trek, Bhutan
The Snowman Trek in Bhutan is one of the hardest and most remote hikes in the world. It goes through the high Himalayas near the border with Tibet. Taking 25 to 30 days, this high altitude expedition crosses multiple passes above 5,000 meters. With stunning views of snow-capped peaks, secluded villages, and ancient monasteries, it’s a true test of endurance.
- Difficulty: Extremely challenging
- Highest Point: Rinchenzoe La (5,320 m).
- On route: Laya, Lunana, Gangkar Puensum views
13. Druk Path Trek, Bhutan
A shorter and more accessible Bhutanese trek, the Druk Path Trek takes about 5 to 6 days and connects Paro and Thimphu. Hikers walk through beautiful rhododendron forests, past alpine lakes, and along ridges offering spectacular views of the eastern Himalayas and snow-capped peaks. Though not as extreme as the Snowman Trek, it’s a cultural and scenic gem.
- Difficulty: level Moderate
- Highest Point: Labana Pass (4,230 m)
- On route: Jele Dzong, Jimilang Tsho, Simkotra Tsho
14. The John Muir Trail, United States
Named after the legendary naturalist, the John Muir Trail spans 340 km through California’s Sierra Nevada. It passes through Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Parks, offering epic mountain views, glacial lakes, and pristine alpine meadows. The trail ends with a summit of Mount Whitney, the highest point in the continental U.S.
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Highest Point: Mount Whitney (4,421 m)
- On route: Yosemite Valley, Evolution Basin, Rae Lakes
15. Salkantay Trek, Peru
As a stunning alternative to the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek offers a remote path to Machu Picchu. Spanning 5 days, it traverses glacial lakes, high passes, and lush cloud forests. The highlight is the breathtaking view of the snow-capped Salkantay mountain, followed by descent into warmer jungle climates.
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Highest Point: Salkantay Pass (4,650 m)
- On route: Humantay Lake, Colpapampa, Lucmabamba
16. Tour du Mont Blanc, France, Italy, Switzerland
The Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) is one of the world’s classic long-distance hiking routes, encircling the Mont Blanc massif. The route goes through France, Italy, and Switzerland for about 170 km. It shows beautiful alpine views, lovely villages, and rich culture.
Trekkers enjoy amazing views of glaciers, snowy peaks, and high mountain passes. They also get to rest in well-equipped mountain shelters. The trail is typically completed in 8-11 days and is accessible from several starting points.
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Highest Point: 2,665 m (Col des Fours)
- On Route: Mont Blanc, Chamonix, Courmayeur, Col de la Seigne, Lac Blanc, Col des Fours, Val Ferret, Glacier du Miage, Swiss Alps
17. Hayduke Trail,Utah & Arizona, United States
The Hayduke Trail is a remote and challenging hiking path. It goes through the most dramatic and rugged areas of the American Southwest. It stretches across more than 1,300 km through six national parks and countless canyons, mesas, and deserts.
It’s not a marked trail but rather a general route requiring strong navigation and survival skills. The landscapes range from red rock cliffs to slot canyons and endless desert expanses. It’s a true test of wilderness endurance.
- Difficulty: Very Challenging
- Highest Point: 2,743 m (Abajo Mountains)
- On Route: Arches National Park, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon, Zion National Park, Escalante River, Paria Canyon
18. Laugavegur Trail, Iceland
The Laugavegur Trail is Iceland’s most famous hiking route, spanning about 55 km from Landmannalaugar to Pórsmörk. It showcases Iceland’s surreal and diverse landscapes in a short but intense trek.
Hikers traverse steaming geothermal areas, black volcanic deserts, colorful rhyolite mountains, icy rivers, and moss-covered valleys. The ever-changing scenery is a dream for photographers and nature lovers. It’s typically done in 4-5 days and serviced by huts during summer.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highest Point: 1,100 m (near Hrafntinnusker)
- On Route: Landmannalaugar, Hrafntinnusker, Álftavatn Lake, Emstrur, Pórsmörk, glacier views
19. Santa Cruz Trek,Cordillera Blanca, Peru
The Santa Cruz Trek is a classic Andean hike through Peru’s spectacular Cordillera Blanca. Over 4-5 days and 50 km, hikers pass glacial lakes, massive peaks, and high mountain passes. The trail crosses the Punta Unión pass at 4,750 m and provides close views of peaks like Taulliraju and Alpamayo. It’s a favorite among those looking for a high-altitude trek with epic scenery and rich biodiversity.
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Highest Point: 4,750 m (Punta Unión Pass)
- On Route: Huascarán National Park, Alpamayo, Taulliraju, Punta Unión Pass, Llanganuco Valley, Arhuaycocha Lake, turquoise glacial lakes, Queñual forests
20. Bibbulmun Track Western, Australia
The Bibbulmun Track is a 1,000+ km trail stretching from Kalamunda near Perth to Albany on the south coast. The trail passes through diverse ecosystems from eucalyptus forests and granite hills to beaches and coastal heath. It’s well-marked and supported by shelters spaced every 10-25 km.
Hikers can complete it in sections or as a thru-hike over 6-8 weeks. The peacefulness and variety make it a unique wilderness experience in Australia.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highest Point: 582 m (Mount Cooke)
- On Route: Darling Range, Karri forests, Tingle trees, Walpole wilderness, South Coast beaches, Torndirrup National Park, Valley of the Giants
21. Barrancas del Cobre, Mexico
The Barrancas del Cobre, also known as Copper Canyon, is a big system of six connected canyons. It is located in the Sierra Tarahumara in northern Mexico. It is home to the Raramuri people and features remote trails, waterfalls, deep ravines, and dramatic cliffs.
Popular routes include hikes from Divisadero to Urique or Batopilas. Trekkers enjoy sweeping canyon views and cultural encounters in isolated villages, making this an unforgettable adventure in Mexican wilderness.
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Highest Point: 2,400 m (varies by route)
- On Route: Urique Canyon, Batopilas Canyon, Divisadero, Rarámuri communities, Piedra Volada waterfall, Copper Canyon Railway (El Chepe), Basaseachic Falls
“True life is lived when small changes happen”
From the Himalayas to the Andes and beyond, these trails represent the best treks in the world. Climbing high passes in Peru, hiking in cloud forests in Bhutan, or watching the sunrise over snowy peaks can change you. If you are planning a trip to Peru, remember to check your packing list. Get ready for unforgettable adventures on the trail.
Peru has so much to offer, it can be hard to know where to start. With many years of experience in the tourism sector, Machu Travel Peru is happy to help with anything regarding your trip to Machu Picchu and any tours around it. Make your Machu Picchu experience an unforgettable one! Contact Us today to plan your dream adventure!
