We're all for a relaxing holiday, but sometimes an active adventure is just what the doctor ordered. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a complete beginner, it’s no secret that immersing yourself in nature is a great way to unplug and destress, and a good long walk in a dreamy destination is certainly more appealing than a stroll around your local park. So, if you're sitting at your desk dreaming about your next trip, this roundup of the best hiking holidays is the perfect-pick-me-up to get you inspired. Read on for our shortlist of the best hiking holidays in the world, before you lace up those walking boots and hit the trails…
- Experience Zambia with a Walking Safari
- Chase Outback Adventures in Australia
- Explore Japan's Kumano Kodo Trail
- Get off-the-beaten-track in Bhutan
- Walk the Wadi Rum in Jordan
- Enjoy Family Fun in the Dolomites
- Try Hilltop Hikes in Vietnam
- Discover Captivating Corsica
- Move-it Move-it in Madagascar
1
Experience Zambia with a Walking Safari
Bored of the same old circuit around your local park? Venture to the wilds of South Luangwa National Park in eastern Zambia for an unforgettable walking safari. Spend your days immersed in the bush and marvel at wildlife big and small, from tiny ants to mighty buffalos. Come evening, cosy up in a tented camp for sundowners and storytelling around a crackling fire.
Inspired? Check out this 12-day Zambia itinerary.
Image by The Kutali Camp.
2
Chase Outback Adventures in Australia
It doesn’t get much more awesome than Australia's vast Arkaba Conservancy. This stretch of southern Outback is home to one of the 'Great Walks of Australia' (and, in our opinion, makes for one of the best walking holidays in the world). The four-night, three-day trek takes you through rocky creeks, mountain foothills and cypress pine forests. With a knowledgeable guide to accompany you and a traditional 'swag' bed under the stars, this is wilderness wandering at its finest.
Start planning your own adventure in the Outback.
Image by Kieran Stone / Getty Images.
3
Explore Japan's Kumano Kodo Trail
It’s no secret that Japan boasts picturesque landscapes and natural beauty, but did you know it also offers some of the best trekking holidays in the world? The 200-mile Kumano Kodo Trail is almost 200 miles long and comprises ancient pilgrimage routes. Wander through deliciously quiet trails and admire lush greenery and intricate shrines dedicated to the worship of the forests. If you get tired, stop at one of the teeny-tiny villages dotted along the route for a warming matcha latte and a rest at a relaxing ryokan.
Has the Kumano Kodo Trail captured your attention? Check out our suggested Japanese trekking itinerary.
Image by Peter Bohler/Reduz/Gallery Stock.
4
Get off-the-beaten-track in Bhutan
Another awe-inspiring hiking holiday to add to your bucket list is Bhutan's incredible five-day 'Dagala Thousand Lakes' trek. With a team of guides, pack ponies and trek assistants to join you on the hike, you'll be well looked after as you tackle the stunning (yet steep) mountain passes and spend the night in a cosy lakeside camp.
Like the sound of this expedition? Visit our blog for our selection of the best hikes in Bhutan.
Image by Adwo / stock.adobe/com.
5
Walk the Wadi Rum in Jordan
Set in the Wadi Rum desert, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site in southern Jordan, the Wadi Rum Trail spans 75 miles and allows hikers to experience historic Hajj trade and travel routes. If you’re a trekking aficionado, you’re in luck: the walks through the pristine desert trails are interspersed with mountainous scrambling and rock climbing. If you prefer an amble to a challenging climb, don’t fret. You can simply experience the dazzling desert landscapes from the alternative walking routes.
Fancy a wander through Wadi Rum? Check out our Jordan itineraries.
Image by Ivor Prickett/PANOS-REA.
6
Enjoy Family Fun in the Dolomites
Italy’s dramatic Dolomites make for one of the best hiking holidays for the whole family to enjoy. Visit these picturesque mountains in the summertime for adventures in the lush hills and ambles through fantastic forests. Enjoy activities tailored just to you, whether you're after a selection of child-friendly day walks or more exhilarating climbs along the region's historic via ferratas – routes equipped with steel cables, ladders and walkways. This thrilling trip is guaranteed to impress even the most troublesome teens.
Interested in Italy? Read our article on The Best Hikes in the Dolomites.
Image by Pexels Dajana Reci.
7
Try Hilltop Hikes in Vietnam
If you prefer your hiking holidays with a side of culture, head to the beautiful valleys and mountains surrounding Sapa, in northwestern Vietnam. Terraced rice fields form a beautiful backdrop for a walk through the hills to the remote village of Nam Cang. Here you can meet the locals, refuel with a hearty lunch and even cool off with a refreshing dip in the river.
For more holiday inspiration in Vietnam, check out our itineraries.
Image by SolStock / Getty Images.
8
Discover Captivating Corsica
If you fancy yourself a hardcore hiker, then Corsica is the place for you. This mountainous Mediterranean island is home to Europe's toughest trek, the GR20, which takes walkers across the entire length of the island in just two weeks. If lung-busting inclines and rustic mountain huts aren't your cup of tea, don’t worry – there are plenty of other hikes to choose from, all of which boast postcard-perfect views over the region's magnificent mountains and sparkling coastline.
Inspired? Have a look at our selection of Corsica itineraries.
Image by Julia Nimke.
9
Move-it Move-it in Madagascar
Look, there might not be talking lions and undercover penguins, but Madagascar has a lot to offer in the hiking department. Boasting lush rainforests, white-sand beaches and dramatic landscapes, Madagascar has scores of natural wonders that make for a fantastic hiking holiday. Trek through the breathtaking rock formations of Tsingy Reserve, listening out for the calls of over 100 different bird species that live within the trees, or head to Mantadia National Park for the chance to spot a real-life lemur.
For more on Madagascar, explore our Madagascan Wildlife Adventure.
Image by Paul Souders / Getty Images.
Written by Emma Begley. Header image by Brian Lackey/Gallery Stock.
