The 10 Best Countries for Trekking

Looking for outdoor adventures? Trekking is one of the best ways to connect with nature while staying active. In this article, you’ll discover the 10 best countries for trekking in the world, with spectacular routes for all experience levels.

Why is trekking such a popular activity?

Trekking combines physical exercise, adventure, and the opportunity to contemplate incredible landscapes. It’s an activity that can be practiced at any age and offers benefits for both physical and mental health.

The 10 best trekking destinations in the world

1. Nepal: The Himalayan paradise

Nepal is the ultimate destination for trekking enthusiasts. The Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp are two of the most famous routes in the world.

Best time to visit: October-November and March-April Difficulty level: Moderate to very difficult Featured route: Annapurna Circuit (approximately 200 km)

2. New Zealand: Movie-worthy landscapes

New Zealand offers some of the best-maintained trails in the world, with landscapes ranging from glaciers to subtropical forests.

Best time to visit: November-April Difficulty level: Easy to moderate Featured route: Milford Track (54 km)

3. Peru: Trekking among Incan ruins

Peru combines majestic mountains with a rich cultural history, making each route a unique experience.

Best time to visit: May-September Difficulty level: Moderate Featured route: Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (43 km)

4. Chile and Argentina: The wild Patagonia

Patagonia offers some of the most dramatic landscapes on the planet, with rugged mountains, glaciers, and intensely blue lakes.

Best time to visit: December-February Difficulty level: Moderate to difficult Featured route: W Circuit in Torres del Paine (80 km)

5. Switzerland: Trekking in the Alps

The Swiss Alps have impeccable infrastructure for hiking and incredible panoramic views.

Best time to visit: June-September Difficulty level: Easy to moderate Featured route: Haute Route (180 km)

6. United States: Unparalleled natural diversity

From deserts to forests and mountains, the United States offers a variety of ecosystems to explore.

Best time to visit: May-September (varies by region) Difficulty level: Easy to very difficult Featured route: Pacific Crest Trail (4,270 km)

7. Iceland: Unique volcanic landscapes

Iceland is a paradise for nature lovers, with lunar landscapes, geysers, waterfalls, and glaciers.

Best time to visit: June-August Difficulty level: Easy to moderate Featured route: Laugavegur (55 km)

8. Japan: Ancient trails

Japan offers trekking routes that combine natural beauty with history and spirituality.

Best time to visit: April-May and September-October Difficulty level: Easy to moderate Featured route: Kumano Kodo (70 km)

9. Canada: North American wilderness

With vast national parks and low population density, Canada is perfect for those seeking solitude in nature.

Best time to visit: June-September Difficulty level: Easy to difficult Featured route: West Coast Trail (75 km)

10. Tanzania: African adventure

Tanzania offers the unique opportunity to combine trekking with safari, including the possibility of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

Best time to visit: January-March and June-October Difficulty level: Difficult Featured route: Kilimanjaro ascent via the Machame route (62 km)

Tips to prepare for international trekking

Essential equipment

• Quality, well-worn trekking boots
• Appropriate layered clothing
• Comfortable backpack
• Reusable water bottle
• First aid kit
• Sunscreen and insect repellent

Physical preparation

It’s important to prepare physically before undertaking a trek, especially if you’re planning multi-day routes or high-altitude treks. Start with short hikes and gradually increase the distance and elevation gain.

Respect for the environment

Always remember to follow leave-no-trace principles:

• Take all your trash with you
• Stay on marked trails
• Respect local wildlife and flora
• Don’t make campfires in non-designated areas