If the thought of braving a treacherous path, irrespective of blistering sun or bone-chilling cold, gives you an adrenaline surge like no other, then this article is for you. From the iconic Everest base camp tucked in the Himalayan ranges to Africa’s towering Kilimanjaro, to Europe’s majestic Mont Blanc, and the formidable trails of Nepal’s Annapurna, we have rounded up eight of the most epic hikes on the planet.
Each trek promises a unique mix of beautiful scenery, physical challenge, and soul-stirring accomplishment, which will leave you breathless, of course, in the best way possible.
Mount Everest Base Camp, Nepal
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Reaching the pinnacle of Earth’s highest mountain, Mount Everest, is the ultimate dream for seasoned mountaineers. However, standing at its foot is an equally powerful experience, minus the life-threatening risks and year-long preparations. Situated in Nepal, the Everest Base Camp trek, though challenging, is a far more achievable feat, offering all the thrill and chill of the majestic Himalayas. Starting in Lukla, the route climbs to an altitude of around 5,364 meters and offers some of the most awe-inspiring views on the planet. The trek takes about 13-15 days, and the biggest test is the high altitude and the rugged terrain; hence, excellent fitness is essential.
Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Towering at 5,895 meters, Mount Kilimanjaro is the world’s highest free-standing mountain and arguably the most accessible of the Seven Summits. Formed after volcanic eruptions millions of years ago, this African jewel is famed for its five distinct ecological zones ranging from lush, humid rainforests to alpine deserts and, eventually, the famous snow-capped summit, which is known as the Uhuru Peak. While altitude remains the main challenge of this 7-day hike, the climb demands no technical expertise, just dedication, willpower, and an adventurous spirit.
Mont Blanc, France/Italy
Mont Blanc, literally meaning the ‘white mountain’, is the largest peak in Western Europe. Rising at about 4,805.6 meters, Mont Blanc offers a tantalizing mix of alpine charm, dramatic ridgelines, and thrilling adventure. The trek, also known as Tour du Mont Blanc, is one of the most iconic multi-day alpine treks in the world, covering 170 kilometers, climbing more than 10,000 meters, and weaving through three Alpine regions in France, Italy, and Switzerland. The 7-day trek is both demanding and deeply rewarding.
Annapurna, Nepal
Nepal’s Annapurna circuit features in the world’s top ten legendary treks, and it is obvious why. Annapurna is a massif of mountains in Nepal, with Annapurna I being its highest peak at 8,091 meters. Moving through subtropical forests, icy mountain passes, remote Nepalese hamlets, and Buddhist monasteries, the trail mesmerizes at every turn. Known for its demanding terrain and unpredictable conditions, the Annapurna Circuit typically takes 12 to 22 days to complete.
Mount Logan, Canada
Majestic, remote, and almost surreal, Mount Logan, the highest mountain in Canada, is a hiker’s paradise. Rising to 5,959 meters, Mount Logan is not only famed for its height but also for its sheer girth, which makes it the most massive mountain in the world. What’s more interesting: it is still getting taller, as the tectonic plates beneath it continue to shift and expand. The 21-day trek to Mount Logan is not just a climb; it is a rigorous test of endurance, skill, and determination, but once you make it, the reward is unmatched, with 360-degree views of endless mountain ranges and frozen landscapes that feel otherworldly.
Cordillera Huayhuash, Peru
The Cordillera Huayhuash is a remote, rugged, and scenic high-altitude trek, which is considered one of the ten best hiking circuits in the world. The Huayhuash range boasts seven peaks soaring above 6,000 meters. Among them, Yerupajá rises to 6,617 meters, making it Peru’s second-highest mountain. Another peak, Siula at 6,344 meters, gained worldwide fame through the harrowing story told in Touching the Void. This 15-day trek is not for the faint-hearted and is perfect for hikers seeking an off-grid adventure.
Matterhorn, Switzerland
Sitting tall at 4,478 meters, with a near-perfect pyramidal shape, the mighty Matterhorn is the symbol of the Alps, drawing trekkers from across the world. The full circuit around the Matterhorn can be done in around 7–10 days, and is a picturesque trail traversing high valleys, panoramic ridgelines, and the quintessential alpine villages of the Zermatt region. It is one of the most exhilarating trekking experiences in the Alps and Europe.
Pouākai Circuit, New Zealand
The Pouākai Circuit on Taranaki’s slopes is one of the most spectacular trekking loops in New Zealand, which takes you through rainforests, tussock highlands, alpine swamps, and volcanic landforms. The circuit is approximately 29 km long with significant elevation changes and takes over 2-3 days to complete. The track is moderately challenging but rewards trekkers with iconic reflections of Mount Taranaki and some of the most beautiful areas of Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki, formerly known as Egmont National Park.
