Does the idea of lying next to a pool for a week fill you with dread? Do you want to step out into the great outdoors? The world is filled with amazing walks and hikes, from the less strenuous to the mentally and physically challenging, but are more available than you think. Conquer famous peaks and discover historic beauty at every turn. So, pack those walking boots, take plenty of snacks and prepare for an adventure of a lifetime.
Everest Base Camp, Nepal
You won’t end up in the record books, but you’ll get a taste for real adventure heading to base camp of the world’s highest mountain. Conquer jagged terrain and testing weather conditions while enjoying spectacular views, unrivalled by anywhere else in the world.
Situated in Nepal deep in the Himalayas, organised trips regularly take to Everest’s steep slopes and require a good level of fitness – leaders will be there to support every step of the way and offer advice on the best routes to take, based on your ability, so you can enjoy the once in a lifetime experience to the fullest.
Difficulty: 5/5
When: Avoid monsoon season – late September-November & February-May
Fact: Everest Base Camp sits at 5,380m on the south side of the mountain
Inca Trail, Peru
One of the most challenging and rewarding treks on the planet, the Inca Trail combines rich history with intense beauty as it traces the Andes over 43km. Wind your way through the mountains, discovering ancient Inca ruins, lush green cloud forest and mysterious tunnels, while sampling local cuisine and spotting native species along the route.
Supported by guide leader and porters to help along the way, you can choose from a range of different treks that take you in different directions and distances. The most popular route is the classic trail, climbing to around 4,200m on its second day. You’ll spend some time acclimatising to the altitude before you set off on your trek, discovering the beautiful city of Cusco and its historic sites surrounding it.
Although it is one of the most popular treks to take on the planet, there are only a certain amount of permits available for the trail each day, in an effort to preserve the steps and historic ruins. Throughout February, the Inca Trail is closed. This is due to safety as it is one of the wettest months of the year. Conservation work is also carried out during this time, to restore deteriorated parts of the trail.
Difficulty: 4/5
When: Dry seasons – May-September
Need some inspiration: Pick a charity and ask your friends and family to sponsor you!
Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Conquered by everyone from experienced hikers to celebrities taking on a challenge, Kilimanjaro is the ultimate mountain to make you feel on top of the world. Kilimanjaro is the world’s highest free standing mountain and is also a dormant volcano with 3 volcanic cones – 2 of the cones are extinct while Kibo, the highest peak could erupt again.
The hike may be one of the most difficult in the world, but the rewards for reaching the summit far outweigh the challenges. Hike through stunning alpine forest spotting the mountain’s diverse wildlife, climb over jagged terrain and gaze in awe at the breath-taking views from its summer.
Difficulty: 5/5
When: January-March & June-October
Did you know: The most recent volcanic activity on Kilimanjaro occurred around 200 years ago, but its last major eruption was 360,000 years ago!
Camino de Santiago, Spain
If you’re not the most experienced trekker but want to experience an adventure on foot, walks and hikes more suitable for beginners is the best way to start. The Camino de Santiago trail, following the ancient pilgrimage to the tomb of St. James the Apostle, is less demanding than the mountain routes, but just as picturesque as you pass rustic villages and quiet countryside.
The pilgrimage trail is around 780km, so most tours focus on a smaller section to complete. One of the most popular parts to hike is the last 100km where you can complete the trail with celebratory wine and tapas after discovering the cathedral in the impressive Praza do Obradoiro square.
Difficulty: 3/5
When: May, June & September
Top tip: Enjoy every moment of your walk by practising a few weeks prior to departure.
