The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu stands as one of the top five trekking routes in the world. Over the millennia, mankind has experienced the transition from a nomadic to a sedentary life, settling in places we call home and only leaving them when the routine becomes monotonous. Nevertheless, that inherent urge to be nomadic persists in our species, driving us to explore new horizons. As the world has been discovered and mapped, the question arises as to whether there is anything left truly unexplored.
In this context, expert travelers, hikers, adventurers and those who simply seek to tour the world's most impressive destinations reveal that there are still places we should not overlook in our lives. Among them are magnificent trails that allow us to marvel at the majesty of nature and, in some cases, explore the constructions of ancient cultures. Here are the "5 best hiking trails on the planet", routes that attract people from all corners of the world willing to travel hundreds of kilometers, or even halfway around the world, in search of these unique experiences.
The Inca Trail in Peru possibly stands out as one of the most exceptional treks in the world, and although there is no formal survey to confirm this, one need only explore the many online testimonials to understand its renown. When we refer to the Inca Trail, we do not limit ourselves to mentioning a simple trail in the middle of nature; we immerse ourselves in a path traced more than 500 years ago by the Incas, which merges in perfect harmony with the natural environment that shelters it.
Along its 39 kilometers, the Inca Trail unfolds a panoramic view that crosses majestic mountain passes in the Andes Mountains until reaching a cloud forest in the Amazon jungle. Beyond offering breathtaking views of towering mountains, shimmering turquoise lagoons, stunning cliff-edge trails and rushing rivers, this hiking route reveals some of the most extraordinary constructions of the Inca and pre-Inca cultures.
As you progress, eventual fatigue is rewarded when you reach the Puerta del Sol, where the first glimpse of the city sacred to the Incas unfolds. However, the real climax is saved in Machu Picchu, an emblematic destination worldwide. However, it is worth mentioning that the experience begins much earlier: from arriving in the city of Cusco to traveling through the beautiful Sacred Valley of the Incas to finally enter the beginning of the Inca Trail.
Everest Base Camp in Nepal is not a journey for every spirit, but those who dare and overcome the challenge of ascending to 5,545 meters, can be proud to share their feat at the highest base camp in the world, Kala Pattar, capturing it in their social networks. However, this route, considered among the best, also stands out for being one of the most demanding, taking the adventurer through difficult and risky terrain between majestic snowy valleys.
Throughout more than 20 days of Everest trekking, you are likely to come across a caravan of Sherpas, members of the ethnic group that inhabits the Solu and Khumbu regions. These skilled guides and porters make the Everest trekking experience possible, playing a crucial role in the safety and logistics of the journey. The trek not only involves a connection with extreme nature, but also with the local culture embodied by the Sherpas, who facilitate the realization of this unique adventure.
The Dogon Country in Mali represents an African jewel, home to the Dogon, one of the most fascinating ethnic groups on the continent. Here, the worldview of this people is vibrantly manifested through their masks, dances, totemic wooden sculptures and extraordinary architecture that can only be fully appreciated when standing in front of it. The Dogon have uniquely integrated their lives into the imposing cliffs of Bandiagara, creating a landscape that captivates and arouses curiosity.
Exploring these lands requires a good physical condition, since, in order to immerse yourself in the essence of the Dogon, it is necessary to climb certain places. Adrenaline flows when facing this challenge, making the climb an unforgettable experience. For those who prefer a more gradual exploration, there are short 2-day treks, although the most complete option to fully immerse yourself in the essence of the land of the Dogon and the Dogon Country is the extended 10-day trek. On this trip, a full panorama of the culture, history and natural beauty of this fascinating African region unfolds before adventurers.
The GR20, located in Corsica, France, stands as one of the most exciting and challenging hiking trails in the world. This world-renowned trail offers breathtaking views of the island and the Mediterranean Sea, making it an unforgettable experience for nature and adventure lovers. With an extension of more than 160 kilometers, traversing this trail requires about 15 days, during which you will explore lush forests, crystalline lakes and amazing geological formations.
The unique geography of the GR20 will give you some of the most evocative and almost "lunar" landscapes to be found anywhere in the world. Make no mistake, however, this trip is not for the faint of heart; you will face challenges that include rocky areas and steep inclines on various sections of the route. Each elevation overcome will be a reward for your senses, offering some of the most stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and Corsica's rugged coastline. All in all, the GR20 promises a unique and exhilarating adventure for those willing to conquer its challenges.
The Himalayas, dubbed the "roof of the world," are home to a unique collection of 14 sky-defying, 8,000-meter-high mountains, ten of which are part of the majestic mountain system known as the Himalayas. This mountain range, which holds the title of the highest on the planet, stands as one of the most captivating destinations for adventurers from all over the world, especially for those who feel capable of undertaking the journey through one of the most amazing mountain ranges in existence.
The ideal route, known as Himachai Pradesh, begins in Spiti and culminates in Ladakh, extending over 24 days. This itinerary follows ancient trade routes that were essential to the communities that populated this region throughout history. The journey through the Himalayas promises a unique experience, dazzling adventurers with unparalleled scenery and a deep connection to the history and culture of the region.
Not surprisingly, individuals from all corners of the globe are obsessed with these towering mountains. The admiration is easy to understand; one need only look at a few images to immerse oneself in the magnificence and grandeur that characterize this iconic place. The Himalayas not only represent a physical challenge, but also an opportunity for exploration and amazement in front of one of the most extraordinary natural wonders of our planet.
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