Some of our favorite memories from our travels have been made on incredible hikes around the world – some so challenging they nearly pushed us to our limits. But it’s true what they say: the best views are always found after the hardest climbs.
We started as casual hikers, just dipping our toes into the world of trekking, but soon, our adventures took on a new direction. Now, as we plan our journeys around the globe, we’re always searching for the most unique and best hikes in the world.
We hope to inspire you to take on some of the amazing trails we’ve encountered during our full-time travels and see for yourself what makes hiking such a life-changing experience.
Ready to experience the world’s most breathtaking views? Here are our 10 best hikes in the world that you may not have even heard of.
We’ll start our list of the world’s greatest hikes with a relatively moderate one to ease you in!
1. Mount Bromo Sunrise at King Kong Hill – Indonesia
Located on the island of Java, Mount Bromo is one of Indonesia’s most iconic volcanoes.
The hike to the top of King Kong Hill for a sunrise view of Mount Bromo is one of the best hikes in the world for those who crave a truly surreal experience.
Starting from the town of Cemoro Lawang, the hike to King Kong Hill is approximately 2.5 km (1.5 miles) and typically takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach the top, depending on your pace.
King Kong Hill hike may be short but as the first light of day illuminates the surrounding volcanic landscape, the panoramic view of the Bromo Caldera, with its smoking crater and the Tengger Sand Sea, is like a scene out of another world.
Witnessing the Mount Bromo sunrise from King Kong Hill was hands-down one of the best things to do in East Java.
2. Fann Mountains: Hike to Kulikolong Lake – Tajikistan
The Fann Mountains in Tajikistan offer one of the most unique multi-day hikes in the world.
Starting from Artuch Base Camp in the Fann Mountains, the hike to Kulikolong Lake typically takes 2-3 days. The round-trip distance is 20-25 km (12-16 miles), depending on the route and stops along the way.
The trek involves a significant ascent, with Kulikolong Lake situated at an altitude of about 2,800 meters (9,186 feet) and takes you through lush valleys, rocky terrain, and pristine alpine lakes, all surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks.
The Fann Mountains offer a variety of breathtaking hikes, including the Iskanderkul Lake Trek, Alouddin Lakes Trek, Seven Lakes Trek, Pamir-Alai Traverse, and Nurobod Pass and Lake Trek, with treks ranging from 1-7 days.
If you’re searching for one of the best hikes in the world offering unparalleled beauty of untouched nature, hiking the Fann Mountains should definitely be on your list.
Add a Fann Mountains multi-day trek to your perfect 4-week Central Asia itinerary.
3. Annapurna Base Camp Trek – Nepal
For those who seek the ultimate Himalayan adventure, the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek in Nepal is among the best hikes in the world.
This multi-day trek takes you deep into the heart of the Annapurna region, passing through rhododendron forests, high-altitude villages, and pristine glaciers.
Starting from the village of Samrung, the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek, situated at an altitude of 4,130 meters (13,550 feet), usually takes 5-7 days, depending on your pace and acclimatization. The round-trip distance from Samrung to ABC is approximately 90-100 km (56-62 miles).
You can watch exactly how we got on during our 6-day Annapurna Base Camp hike in the video below:
Along the way, you’ll encounter stunning views of towering peaks, including Annapurna I, Machapuchare, and Dhaulagiri.
This popular Nepal hike ranges from moderate to difficult, with altitudes that can be challenging. However, the beauty and sense of accomplishment at Annapurna Base Camp make every step worth it. Hiking the Annapurna region was undoubtedly our best hike in Nepal.
Experience the beauty of the Annapurna Basecamp Trek with a 5-day guided trek from Pokhara. Explore stunning mountain scenery, witness traditional Nepalese culture, and unwind in natural hot springs.
4. Mount Longonot – Kenya
Mount Longonot in Kenya offers a unique hiking experience in the Great Rift Valley.
The Mount Longonot hike is one of the best hikes in the world for those looking for a hiking adventure in Africa.
The hike to the summit of this dormant volcano is 7.2 km (4.5 miles) round-trip and typically takes 4-5 hours, depending on your pace. The trail is moderately challenging, with a steep ascent to the crater rim.
Once at the top of Mount Longonot, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the crater floor and surrounding landscapes, including Lake Naivasha and the Great Rift Valley.
A highlight of the Mount Longonot hike in Kenya is spotting wild African animals like zebras and giraffes along the way. Don’t worry, though – there are no predators in Mount Longonot National Park!
If you choose to hike around Mount Longonot crater rim, it adds another 7 km (4.3 miles), making the total distance for the full adventure around 14.2 km (8.8 miles). It’s a tough climb, but the view of the crater and surrounding plains is worth every step. Go on you’ve already made it this far!
Add this Mount Longonot hike to your epic Africa itinerary where we bring you on the ultimate Africa adventure to experience it all.
5. Mount Ijen – Java, Indonesia
We are back to Indonesia for a truly surreal and unique hiking experience.
Mount Ijen in East Java, Indonesia, stands out as one of the best hikes in the world and is famous for its stunning blue fire phenomenon and beautiful crater lake.
This volcanic trek typically takes around 2-3 hours one way, covering a 3-4 km (1.9-2.5 miles) distance with a steep ascent.
Prepare for an early morning start from Banyuwangi, beginning your hike at 2 am to witness Mount Ijen’s famous blue flames in all their glory.
The trail is rocky and steep, and the air is thick with sulfur fumes, but the reward of witnessing the famous Ijen blue flames is one of the most unique sights on the planet.
As a bonus for your early rising, you will get to witness the sun illuminate the world’s largest acid lake – now that’s one impressive hiking tour!
Without a doubt, Mount Ijen is a popular hike for those seeking a unique natural spectacle.
Combine a Mount Bromo hike with your Mount Ijen trek for an ultimate 2-week Indonesia itinerary.
6. Carnarvon Gorge Hike – Queensland, Australia
For those seeking a less challenging but equally breathtaking experience, the Carnarvon Gorge hike in Queensland, Australia, offers one of the best hikes in the world in terms of natural beauty and serenity.
Carnarvon Gorge in Queensland, Australia, offers a variety of stunning hikes through its dramatic landscape, including the popular Carnarvon Gorge Walk, which takes you through towering cliffs, Aboriginal rock art sites, swimming holes, and lush vegetation over a 9 km (5.6 miles), 4-6 hours round-trip trail.
Other highlights include the shorter Nature Trail, perfect for a quick 30 minute walk, and the 3.7 km (2.3 miles) Whirlpool Gorge & Moss Garden trail, which leads to serene moss-covered waterfalls.
With its rich history, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking scenery, Carnarvon Gorge was our favorite hike in Australia.
For the ultimate Australian adventure, be sure to rent a campervan, giving you the freedom to explore and experience what is arguably the most beautiful continent on Earth.
7. Drakensberg Hike – South Africa
The Drakensberg Mountains in South Africa are a hiker’s paradise, making it the perfect location for many of the best hikes in the world, offering both challenging climbs and scenic beauty.
The landscape is diverse and dramatic, with jagged cliffs, deep ravines, and expansive grasslands. The Drakensberg Mountains offers various hiking options, from easier day hikes to strenuous multi-day treks. Along the way, you can see ancient San rock art, adding a cultural dimension to the hikes.
The Drakensberg Mountains offer incredible hikes, including the Amphitheatre Hike, boasting breathtaking views of the world’s highest waterfall, Tugela Falls. This thrilling trail features the iconic double chain ladders, surrounded by dramatic cliffs.
Another popular Drakensberg hike is to Cathedral Peak, and the much easier Tugela Gorge hike. For those seeking a multi-day adventure, the Giant’s Cup Trail winds through picturesque valleys and ridges, providing a scenic route over several days.
Whether you’re seeking a casual hike or something more challenging, the Drakensberg Mountains are certain to offer some of the best hiking experiences in the world.
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8. Lion’s Head Hike – Cape Town, South Africa
We are sticking with South Africa for our next hike recommendation.
The Lion’s Head hike might surprise you as one of the best hikes in the world, especially since Table Mountain is the most popular hike in Cape Town. But we like to do things differently!
For one of the best urban hikes in the world, the Lion’s Head hike in Cape Town is perfect for those who want a short yet rewarding hike with stunning views.
This lesser-known hike in Cape Town typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to complete, depending on your fitness level and pace. It’s about a 5 km (3.1 miles) round-trip hike, with an ascent of roughly 669 meters (2,195 feet).
Hiking Lion’s Head is relatively easy but steep and provides sweeping views of the city, Table Mountain, and the Atlantic Ocean. A hike offering views OF South Africa’s world wonder seems a lot more appealing to us!
The summit, which is shaped like a lion’s mane, is a fantastic spot to catch a sunset or sunrise. With its combination of urban life and natural beauty, Lion’s Head hike is one of the best urban hikes in the world.
9. Coumshingaun Loop Hike – Waterford, Ireland
We cannot have a list of the best hikes in the world without mentioning our home, the beautiful island of Ireland.
If you’re in search of a peaceful escape in the stunning Irish countryside, the Coumshingaun Loop hike in Waterford offers one of the best hikes in the world for scenic tranquility.
This popular Irish hike is a stunning 6.5 km (4 miles) loop trail and takes you around a pristine glacial lake, with views of the dramatic Comeragh Mountains surrounding you.
Coumshingaun Loop hike takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to complete, depending on your pace and the weather conditions. The terrain is rugged and challenging in parts, but the stunning scenery makes it all worthwhile.
Coumshingaun Loop Hike offers a peaceful retreat from the stresses of life and tops our list as the best hike in Ireland.
Find your ultimate tour of Ireland with various itineraries and budgets to suit all needs. You can even create your own Ireland itinerary – Start planning your Ireland trip today!
10. Nam Xay Hike – Vang Vien, Laos
Last but not least, Nam Xay in Vang Vien, Laos, is one of the most adventurous and unique hikes in the world.
Known for its steep climbs and limestone karst formations, this short but intense hike offers some of the best panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, with rice paddies, rivers, and jagged mountains.
The Nam Xay Hike is 1.5 to 2 km (1 mile) each way and typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours to complete, depending on your pace.
The trail involves a steep climb, and there is a section near the summit where you may need to scramble or use a rope to assist in reaching the top. Once you reach the summit, you are rewarded with stunning 360-degree views of the Nam Xay mountain range and the surrounding countryside.
To add a bit of fun, hop onto one of the motorbikes amazingly placed at Nam Xay summit for the perfect photo opportunity!
While not too long, the Nam Xay hike is physically demanding due to the steepness, but it’s considered one of the most scenic hikes in Laos, especially at sunrise or sunset. Make sure to bring sturdy footwear and plenty of water for the hike!
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path hike that offers incredible views, Nam Xay is definitely one of the best hikes in the world to consider.
Enjoy the Best Hikes in the World!
From remote mountain peaks to serene lakes and volcanic craters, the best hikes in the world offer something for everyone – whether you’re looking for a multi-day trek, a dangerous adventure, or a unique cultural experience.
Each of these unique hikes presents its own challenges and rewards, taking you to some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on Earth.
So, whether you’re crossing snow-capped peaks in Nepal or exploring tropical jungles in Southeast Asia, the world’s greatest hiking trails are waiting to be discovered.
Lace up your boots, and set out to explore the world’s best hikes – just like us, you’ll soon begin to crave these incredible trekking adventures!
If you have any questions please leave us a comment below, and don’t forget to check out our socials for our latest adventures!
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