If you're the type of person who loves to explore wild places and escape into nature, then multiday treks are just for you! Whether traversing through jungles deep in the wilderness, summiting a snow-dusted peak, or sleeping under starry skies - there's something special about spending multiple days outdoors.
And while there are all sorts of extraordinary offerings around the globe, we've rounded up some of our favorite multi-day hikes and backpacking trips that will truly take your breath away! So pack your bags and come along as we journey to some of the world's best trekking experiences!
10 of the world’s most stunning places to walk in a week or more
From the mighty Himalayas to the lush Amazon, some of the world’s most spectacular scenery can be found along multi-day treks. Whether you’re looking for a challenging expedition with stunning mountain views or a relaxed walk through beautiful terrain, these 10 places offer some of the best multiday treks.
1. The Inca Trail in Peru
This famous four-day hike follows an ancient trail used by the Inca people and culminates in Machu Picchu, one of South America’s most iconic sites. You'll experience breathtaking mountain views and numerous archaeological sites along the way.
2. Patagonia in Chile/Argentina
Patagonia is renowned for its wild, untamed scenery and rugged terrain. The best way to experience it is with a multiday trek through the region’s national parks.
3. Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania
Africa’s highest mountain can be scaled in a week or more. Although challenging, the rewards are worth it: climbers will enjoy spectacular views of the African savannah, glaciers, and highlands as they ascend this iconic peak.
4. The Great Wall of China
This massive ancient monument stretches over 6,000 kilometers across northern China and offers stunning views along its entire length. The walk can take up to three weeks if you follow the entire wall from east to west.
5. The Appalachian Trail in the United States
This world-famous hiking trail follows the Appalachian mountain range from Georgia to Maine. It takes around 5 months to complete the entire route, but shorter hikes of a week or more can easily be done.
6. Nepal’s Annapurna Circuit
This 300-kilometer trek through some of the planet’s most beautiful mountains can take anywhere from 10 days to three weeks, depending on your pace and how many side trails you choose to explore.
7. Torres del Paine in Chile
One of South America’s premier national parks, this stunning destination offers a variety of walks ranging from a single-day exploration to longer treks that span multiple weeks.
8. The Cinque Terre in Italy
This five-village coastal walk along the Mediterranean Sea offers spectacular views of the Italian Riviera and plenty of opportunities for swimming, eating delicious food, and wine tasting.
9. Camino de Santiago in Spain
This centuries-old pilgrimage route winds its way across Spain’s northern coast and takes approximately one month to complete. Along the way, travelers will enjoy picturesque villages, rolling hillsides, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
10. The Kalalau Trail in Hawaii
This 11-mile hike along Kauai’s Na Pali Coast is an unforgettable experience that takes about four days to complete. Wild landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and golden beaches await the intrepid explorer.
No matter what type of adventure you’re looking for, the world’s best multiday treks can be found in some of the most beautiful places on Earth. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey!
Peaks of the special Balkans: Albania, Kosovo and the Montenegro
Days: 12
Distance: 200 km / 124 miles
The Peaks of the Balkans is among the world’s best multi-day treks. This epic journey takes you through three countries in the Balkan Peninsula – Albania, and Montenegro – all within 12 days. You’ll traverse wild landscapes, explore high-altitude passes, pass through stunning alpine meadows, navigate remote villages tucked away in valleys, and take incredible mountain views.
Lost City Trek: Sierra Nevada Best Mountains, Colombia
Days: 4 (5-6 day treks are also available)
Distance: 46 km / 28 miles
The Lost City Trek in Colombia’s Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta Mountains is among the world's best multi-day treks. This unforgettable journey offers a captivating mix of jungle exploration, challenging ascents, river crossings, and stunning viewpoints over ancient ruins.
The final destination is the magical – and often misty – Ciudad Perdida, an ancient lost city built by the indigenous Tayrona people some 650 years ago.
Heights of Alay Trek: Alay Big Mountains, Kyrgyzstan
Days: 3 nights/4 days
Distance: 48 km/30 miles
Maximum Altitude: 3,800 m/12,467 ft
The Heights of Alay trek is among the world's best multi-day treks. Located in Kyrgyzstan's rugged mountain range, this four-day trek will take up to 3,800 meters (12,467 feet). On your journey, you’ll cross alpine meadows, pass glacier-fed rivers and lakes, and discover traditional villages.
You’ll also be able to observe native birds and animals like marmots, vultures, foxes, eagles, and falcons as you walk through Kyrgyzstan's pristine highlands. The trek is challenging but manageable, with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the sights.
FAQs
What is the greatest hike in the world?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as what defines the “greatest” hike in the world depends on individual preferences.
However, some of the world's most popular multiday treks are considered to be among the greatest, including The Inca Trail in Peru, the Tour du Mont Blanc in France/Italy/Switzerland, and the Appalachian Trail in the United States.
Each trek offers unique experiences and breathtaking scenery, so it is just a matter of personal preference.
What is the longest multi-use trail?
The longest multi-use trail in the world is the Trans Canada Trail, spanning over 24,000 km from coast to coast. It passes through all 10 provinces and three territories of Canada, making it the longest recreational trail in the world. It is also open to non-motorized activities such as biking, walking, and horseback riding.
What is the best multi-use trail in the United States?
The Appalachian Trail (AT) is widely considered to be the best multi-use trail in the United States. It stretches nearly 4,000 km from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine, passing through 14 states. This trail is known for its stunning views and diverse wildlife, making it a popular destination for hikers, backpackers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
Conclusion
I hope this guide has given you an idea of some of the world's best multi-day treks. Exploring these trails is a great way to connect with nature and uncover some of the most incredible landscapes worldwide.
With careful planning, trekking can be done safely and responsibly, providing an unforgettable adventure! Whether it’s a few days or a few weeks, there’s no doubt that these trails have something to offer everyone.
