In today’s fast-paced world, people are increasingly seeking ways to connect with nature and improve their well-being. Hiking has emerged as a popular activity that offers a multitude of benefits, both physical and mental. Spending time outdoors has been shown to reduce stress, improve cardiovascular health, and boost mood.
As a result, the popularity of hiking is on the rise, with people of all ages and abilities seeking out the best countries for hiking to explore breathtaking landscapes, diverse trails, and a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a beginner looking for a scenic stroll, there’s a perfect hiking destination waiting to be discovered. This guide will unveil some of the best countries for hiking in 2024, guaranteeing amazing views and unforgettable experiences.
Table of Contents
Discover the BEST Countries for Hiking
Peru
Peru, a land sculpted by nature’s grand hand, emerges as a top contender among the best countries for hiking. From the soaring peaks of the Andes to the emerald depths of the Amazon and the sun-scorched landscapes of the coast, Peru beckons hikers of all levels with a diverse tapestry of trails.
Ascend the majestic Andes on the legendary Inca Trail, a challenging yet rewarding 42km trek culminating at the iconic Machu Picchu. This best countries for hiking experience winds through valleys, traditional villages, and across rivers, culminating in a breathtaking sunrise view of the ancient city from the Sun Gate.
Embark on the Lost City of Choquequirao Trek, a 45km (28 miles) adventure through the Apurimac Valley.
This off-the-beaten-path challenge leads to an archaeological marvel, believed to be three times larger than Machu Picchu, and is a true gem for experienced hikers seeking an authentic experience.
Even amidst the desert landscapes, hiking opportunities abound. Hike the Lomas de Lúcumo, a verdant oasis just outside Lima, where a unique climate creates a haven of lush vegetation during the winter months. This family-friendly 4km trail offers stunning scenery and is perfect for a leisurely afternoon escape.
Peru, a top contender for the best countries for hiking, beckons you to explore its diverse landscapes and discover your next hiking adventure!
Chile
Chile, a land of breathtaking contrasts, is a top contender for the best countries for hiking. Imagine a country squeezing in deserts, islands, mountains, volcanoes, and glacial lakes, all within its slender borders, and you have Chile. With over 21% of its land designated as protected areas, Chile offers unforgettable hiking experiences for every level.
Hike the jagged peaks of Cerro Castillo National Park, dubbed the “next Torres del Paine” for its stunning scenery and fewer crowds. Immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Chiloé Island, with its national parks, dramatic coastlines, and ancient forests.
Discover Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park, where rugged mountains meet Alerce forests and lead to a breathtaking coastline.
For a unique experience, explore Rapa Nui (Easter Island), a volcanic island known for its Moai statues and perfectly-sized trails for exploring its fascinating history and stunning landscapes.
United States of America
The United States of America has long been celebrated as one of the premier destinations for hiking enthusiasts, earning its reputation as one of the best countries for hiking. Its vast and diverse landscape, coupled with effective marketing strategies, has solidified its gold standard status in the hiking world.
Yosemite National Park has garnered international attention, not only for its appearances in climbing documentaries like Free Solo and The Dawn Wall but also for its timeless appeal to hikers. Boasting over 800 miles of trails, Yosemite offers a range of experiences from the iconic Half Dome hike to the accessible Yosemite Falls Trail.
In the White Mountains of New Hampshire, adventurers can explore alpine summits, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls. Mount Washington, the Northeast’s highest peak, presents a formidable challenge via the Jewell Trail, rewarding hikers with awe-inspiring views.
The Franconia Ridge Loop Trail is another highlight, offering an exhilarating 8.6-mile trek across Mount Lafayette, Mount Lincoln, and Little Haystack.
Glacier National Park, dubbed the “Crown of the Continent” beckons with over 700 miles of trails meandering through alpine meadows and alongside majestic glaciers.
The Grand Canyon offers a surreal hiking experience, with trails like Bright Angel and South Kaibab showcasing dramatic vistas and demanding climbs.
Meanwhile, Rocky Mountain National Park boasts 350 miles of trails, including the scenic Emerald Lake and Sky Pond Trails. With its diverse offerings, the US remains unrivaled as one of the best countries for hiking adventures.
New Zealand
New Zealand stands out as one of the best countries for hiking offering an array of breathtaking trails across both the South and North Islands. While there are countless remarkable hikes in the country, I’ve handpicked my personal favorites to showcase the diverse beauty of New Zealand’s hiking trails.
One of the standout hikes is the Ben Lomond Track, situated in Queenstown. Offering a moderate to difficult level of challenge, this trail leads to the summit of Ben Lomond and presents stunning views across the region.
Despite its accessibility via the top of Bob’s Peak, some adventurous souls opt for the longer route from Queenstown, providing a more immersive experience in nature in one of the best countries for hiking.
Roy’s Peak Track near Wanaka emerges as another highlight.
Although challenging, it rewards hikers with unparalleled views of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains, solidifying New Zealand’s reputation as one of the best countries for hiking. While the trail demands determination and stamina, the breathtaking vistas from the summit make it a must-do for avid hikers.
For those seeking a less crowded alternative, Isthmus Peak offers a comparable experience to Roy’s Peak but with fewer crowds, further showcasing why New Zealand is one of the best countries for hiking. Located near Wanaka, this trail provides equally mesmerizing views without the hustle and bustle of its popular counterpart.
Lastly, the Liverpool Track in Mount Aspiring National Park offers a challenging yet rewarding trek through diverse terrain.
With the option to stay overnight at Liverpool Hut, hikers can immerse themselves fully in the park’s pristine wilderness, further highlighting why New Zealand is one of the best countries for hiking.
Argentina
Argentina’s Patagonia, a land of soaring mountains, majestic glaciers, and pristine lakes, is a top contender for the best countries for hiking. With its diverse landscapes and abundance of trails, Patagonia attracts adventurers of all levels, from casual day-trippers to seasoned backpackers seeking multi-day challenges.
Nestled within Los Glaciares National Park, El Chaltén is a charming village and the undisputed hiking capital of Argentina. This vibrant hub offers easy access to iconic trails like the Fitz Roy trek, Laguna Torre, and Laguna de los Tres, all offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
The Refugio Frey hike, starting from Bariloche, is a popular day hike renowned for its breathtaking views and relatively easy terrain.
This 12-kilometer trail meanders through lush forests and trickling streams, offering a serene and peaceful hiking experience amidst the rugged beauty of the Cerro Catedral.
Mount Tronador, aptly named the “thundering mountain,” offers an exhilarating hike to the Alerce Glacier, showcasing its eight magnificent glaciers and panoramic vistas. While relatively easy, this hike rewards adventurers with mesmerizing views and the opportunity to stay at the Refugio Otto Meiling or camp under the starlit sky.
Iguazu Falls National Park, while not solely dedicated to hiking, features an intricate network of trails offering captivating views of the awe-inspiring waterfalls.
The Lower Circuit provides a quick yet rewarding experience, while the Upper Circuit grants panoramic vistas, culminating in the breathtaking Devil’s Throat. For a truly unique experience, consider the Paso de las Nubes, a two-day trek through the scenic Lake District, taking you through forests and offering stunning views of Mount Tronador.
Finally, the Perito Moreno Glacier hike offers a unique experience of walking on ice and witnessing the glacier’s majestic beauty up close. As one of Argentina’s most famous natural wonders, this hike is a bucket-list-worthy adventure in one of the best countries for hiking.
Iceland
Walking and hiking in Iceland offer an unparalleled way to immerse yourself in the island’s unique natural beauty, especially during the long daylight hours of summer. As a top contender for the best countries for hiking, Iceland boasts an extensive network of trails spanning both lowland and highland areas.
Iceland’s hiking terrain surprises many, given its lush greenery for most of the year. Despite glaciers covering 11% of the country, the landscape is surprisingly verdant compared to its name origin. The island’s rich volcanic origins provide a fascinating backdrop for exploration, making it a truly unique hiking destination.
The shorter Fimmvörduháls Trek offers equally breathtaking scenery, including the iconic Skógafoss waterfall and volcanic craters created in the 2010 eruption. Both trails are accessible from late June to early September, providing ample time for exploration during the summer season.
For those seeking a truly remote adventure, the Hornstrandir Trek offers a rugged and isolated experience in Europe’s last true wilderness area. With its challenging terrain and lack of facilities, this trek provides a truly immersive encounter with nature, solidifying Iceland’s position as one of the best countries for hiking.
Alternatively, shorter hikes like the Brennisteinsalda-Bláhnúkur loop offer panoramic views and vibrant landscapes without the time commitment of longer trails. For the ultimate challenge, summiting Hvannadalshnúkur, Iceland’s highest peak, presents a demanding mountaineering adventure.
With its diverse hiking opportunities, from breathtaking trails to remote wilderness experiences, Iceland truly deserves its place among the best countries for hiking.
Nepal
Nepal is renowned as one of the best countries for hiking enthusiasts, offering some of the most spectacular treks in the world.
When planning a trekking adventure in Nepal, it’s crucial to consider which trail aligns best with your preferences and capabilities. The Everest Three Passes Trek stands out as a challenging yet rewarding journey, traversing over three passes exceeding 5,000 meters in elevation.
This approximately 18-day trek offers unparalleled views of the majestic Himalayan peaks, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an immersive experience in one of the best countries for hiking.
For a captivating adventure, the Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. Lasting around 13 days, this trek showcases lush valleys, towering peaks, and a high-altitude pass crossing while retaining a sense of remoteness and authenticity, showcasing Nepal’s position as a top destination for hiking.
The Langtang Trek, lasting about 7 days, presents a heartfelt experience through lush forests and alpine meadows, culminating at Kyangjin Gompa. This revitalized trek, once affected by natural disasters, now welcomes trekkers to explore its scenic wonders in one of the best countries for hiking.
Another notable option is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, spanning approximately 12 days. This trek leads you deep into the Annapurna Massif, offering a unique perspective with its vertical vistas and close-up views of towering peaks, showcasing why Nepal is considered one of the best countries for hiking.
Croatia
Croatia offers a diverse range of hiking opportunities, making it an excellent destination for hikers of all levels seeking both challenge and panoramic views. The country boasts a variety of routes suitable for different age groups and skill levels, with few natural hazards to be wary of, provided hikers come prepared. Croatia stands out as one of the best countries for hiking, offering diverse landscapes and trails suitable for hikers of all levels.
Marjan, overlooking Split, presents an ideal option for a short yet enjoyable hike lasting under three hours. The approximately eight-kilometer route features some steep sections but remains accessible for most hikers. Starting near Trumbićeva obala, the trail includes around 300 steps known as Marjanske skale, offering an observation point and a local restaurant with a panoramic terrace at the top.
Plitvice, Croatia’s renowned national park, offers more than just cascading waterfalls, with numerous hiking trails winding through forests, cliffs, and canyons.
Visitors can explore the park’s diverse landscapes from either Entrance 1 or 2, with boats and shuttles facilitating access to various routes. Planning ahead is advisable to make the most of the park’s offerings, which are accessible year-round and less crowded during the winter months. Croatia stands out as one of the best countries for hiking, offering diverse landscapes and trails suitable for hikers of all levels.
Velebit, considered Croatia’s most scenic hike, boasts the Premužić Trail, a 58-kilometer route named after its creator.
This multi-day trek offers breathtaking views and the opportunity to stay at mountain huts like Zavižan, providing hot meals and accommodation. While camping is not permitted, hikers can immerse themselves in the beauty of Velebit, protected as both a national park and a nature park. Croatia’s hiking trails in places like Plitvice and Velebit make it one of the best countries for hiking, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from around the world.
South Africa
Hikes not only showcase the country’s diverse scenery but also offer unique opportunities to explore hidden gems that might otherwise go unnoticed. South Africa is a strong contender for one of the best countries for hiking destinations in the world, with its diverse landscapes ranging from mountains and forests to coastlines and deserts.
Nestled within the Golden Gate Highlands National Park, the Rhebok Trail spans 31 kilometers and typically takes about two days to complete.
While moderately challenging, it rewards hikers with awe-inspiring vistas of mountain peaks and deep ravines. Along the way, you’ll encounter tranquil rock pools, perfect for a refreshing break or a leisurely snack. Families with children over 10 years old can also enjoy this scenic trek together.
For those seeking an exhilarating challenge, the guided five-day Amphitheatre Heritage Hike leads adventurers to the summit of Tugela Falls, the world’s second-highest waterfall.
This demanding trail requires good physical fitness and proper equipment due to its rugged terrain. The highlight of the hike is reaching the Roof of the World, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Lesotho. While camping areas and lodges are available, some hikers may opt for a more rustic experience by sleeping in caves along the route.
Ideal for thrill-seekers, the Sentinel Peak Hiking Trail presents a more challenging ascent. Spanning 6 kilometers, this trek leads adventurers to the summit of Drakensberg’s highest free-standing mountain.
Along the way, hikers navigate rocky terrain and ascend ladders built into the rock face, adding an adrenaline-fueled element to the experience. The trail promises stunning panoramic views and a sense of accomplishment for those who conquer its heights. As one of the best countries for hiking, South Africa invites visitors to explore its breathtaking landscapes and discover the wonders of its wilderness firsthand.
Norway
For those seeking adventure, Norway stands out as one of the best countries for hiking, boasting a multitude of scenic trails and picturesque destinations. One of the most iconic hikes in Norway is the Preikestolen (The Pulpit Rock) Hike, located in Western Norway’s Rogaland county. Rising 1,981 feet (604 meters) above the Lysefjord, Preikestolen offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The hike, which begins at the Preikestolen Mountain Lodge, takes approximately 5 hours to complete and covers a distance of 2.4 miles (3.8 km).
Another must-visit destination for hiking enthusiasts is Trolltunga (Troll’s Tongue), a unique rock formation that attracts adventurers from around the world. This challenging hike, starting from Skjeggedal, spans 17.3 miles (28 kilometers) round-trip and includes steep ascents of up to 2,624 feet (800 meters). Guided hikes are recommended, especially during the colder months when conditions can be harsh.
In the picturesque Lofoten Islands, hikers can conquer the Reinebringen Hike, offering panoramic views of the surrounding coastal villages and rugged landscapes. While relatively short at 1,469 feet (448 meters) high, the hike features a stairway of 1,560 steps, leading to the summit. It’s best to start early to avoid crowds and be cautious of rockfall incidents.
For a more immersive hiking experience, consider the Besseggen Ridge Hike in the Jotunheimen mountains.
This 9.6-mile (14-kilometer) trail traverses both land and water, offering breathtaking views of the Bessvatnet and Gjende lakes. The highlight of the hike is the Besseggen ridge, approximately 1 kilometer long and situated at an elevation of 820 feet (250 meters). Hikers should plan for a 7-9 hour journey and monitor the weather forecast for optimal conditions.
