Quick Picks – Editor’s Choices for Best Hiking Trips in the World (2026)
Best for Epic Scenery
Tour du Mont Blanc (France, Italy, Switzerland) – Sweeping glimpses of glaciers, Alpine meadows, and the legendary Mont Blanc massif. 170km, 10-12 days, challenging.
Best for Adventure Seekers
Everest Base Camp Trek (Nepal) – Extreme elevation, jaw-dropping Himalayas, and serious adventure. 130km, 12-14 days, challenging, not family-suited.
Best for Cultural Immersion
Camino de Santiago (Spain/France) – Historic pilgrim route, vibrant local traditions, and ancient architecture. 800km, 30-35 days, moderate.
Best for Families and Beginners
Queen Charlotte Track (New Zealand) – Coastal landscapes, easy access, wildlife, and friendly for all levels. 71km, 4 days, easy-moderate.
Best Eco-Friendly Trek
Laugavegur Trail (Iceland) – Volcanic terrain, strict Leave No Trace policies, and controlled hut quotas. 55km, 4-6 days, moderate-challenging.
How We Chose the Best Hiking Trips in the World for 2026
Selection Criteria and Expert Panel
We synthesized findings from multiple sources and recent adventure travel rankings, focusing on: scenery quality, adventure level, sustainability programs, accessibility, and cultural value. While public global rankings differ, key sources, such as MT Sobek, Much Better Adventures, and AllTrails, utilize expert panels and hiker reviews. Average trail length, required skill level, seasonal highlights, conservation initiatives, and family accessibility informed each selection. Data is corroborated with published booking rates, recent trail usage surveys, and success/incident statistics (e.g., Kilimanjaro summit success at 65% per 2025 guide reports).
Focus on Sustainability and Updated Travel Access
Sustainability is measured by trail maintenance, eco-tour operator certifications, permit systems limiting numbers, waste management, and local conservation funding. Top trails are those with documented eco-policies and verifiable, community-supported initiatives (Leave No Trace, protected areas, wildlife integration in park economies).
What’s New for 2026? (Climate, Permits, Accessibility)
- Permit demand spikes: Many regions (e.g. USA, Peru, Havasu Falls) have updated to digital permit systems and stricter quotas due to record demand.
- Climate impacts: 20-30% of classic long-distance trails showed adverse climate effects, like glacier retreat or storm-induced closures (Torres del Paine, Rinjani).
- Inclusive access: Expanded digital trail guides, wide path upgrades, added hut options, and increased multilingual signage reflect a global move toward trail inclusivity and resilience.
Top 15 Best Hiking Trips in the World (2026 Edition)
1. Tour du Mont Blanc, France/Italy/Switzerland – Alpine Majesty
Why It’s Special in 2026
Record snowfall and 2026’s conservation initiatives showcase the Alps at their best, with expanded eco-guided group options.
Trail Info: Length, Duration, Difficulty, Best Time
- 170km, 10–12 days, challenging (10,600m elevation gain)
- Best June–September
Sustainability & Conservation Initiatives
MT Sobek’s certified low-impact adventures; local waste reduction laws; many sections now ban non-refillable bottles.
Cultural or Local Community Experiences
Alpine village stopovers, French, Italian, and Swiss culinary blends, heritage refuges.
Logistics (Permits, Safety, Entry Restrictions 2026)
Advance booking required for high-season huts; digital trail apps recommended; increased seasonal trail crew funding.
2. Inca Trail, Peru – Ancient Footsteps
Why It’s Special in 2026
Newly improved Machu Picchu circuits maximize site preservation, with 10 designated one-way circuits.
Trail Info
- 42km, 4 days, moderate-challenging
- Best May–October; 500 permits/day, rain closures possible with short notice
Sustainability & Conservation Initiatives
Permit fees bolster Inca heritage conservation; strict entry rotation; integrated guide training for eco-best practices.
Cultural or Local Community Experiences
Quechua porters, local markets, Inca ruins immersion.
Logistics
Permit batches released late each year, require passport, operator booking highly advised for 2026.
3. Torres del Paine W Trek, Chile – Into Patagonia
Why It’s Special in 2026
Improvements after historic wildfires; better eco-cabin options and wildfire management protocols.
Trail Info
- 70–100km, 4–5 days, moderate
- Best November–March; variable weather risk
Sustainability & Conservation Initiatives
Ban on single-use plastics, expanded eco-lodging and local ranger employment.
Cultural or Local Community Experiences
Patagonian guides, regional gastronomy, indigenous Mapuche insights.
Logistics
Mandatory park reservations online for all visitors; shuttle/transfer pre-booking required in high season.
4. Everest Base Camp Trek, Nepal – Among Giants
Why It’s Special in 2026
Climate change visible in glacier retreat; more focus on supporting local Sherpa communities and rescue preparedness.
Trail Info
- 130km, 12–14 days, challenging (max 5,364m elevation)
- Best March–May, September–November
Sustainability & Conservation Initiatives
New Sherpa-led waste removal programs, strict pack-in/pack-out rules.
Cultural or Local Community Experiences
Sherpa hospitality, Buddhist stupas, Monastery visits.
Logistics
Helicopter limits for 2026, expanded trekker insurance requirements.
5. Laugavegur Trail, Iceland – Volcanic Horizons
Why It’s Special in 2026
Bridges improved for river crossings; volcanic activity closely monitored with real-time updates.
Trail Info
- 55km, 4–6 days, moderate-challenging
- Best June–August
Sustainability & Conservation Initiatives
Strict leave-no-trace policies enforced by rangers, low-impact hut quotas.
Cultural or Local Community Experiences
Hot spring soaks along the route, Icelandic wilderness traditions.
Logistics
Mandatory pre-booking for huts; group bookings common for safety.
6. Huayhuash Circuit, Peru – Remote Andean Paradise
Why It’s Special in 2026
Improved community fee systems channel funds for route preservation.
Trail Info
- 130km, 8–12 days, very challenging
- Best May–September
Sustainability & Conservation Initiatives
Partnership with local herders; visitor trackers funded by permit fees.
Cultural or Local Community Experiences
Quechua hospitality, remote village stops.
Logistics
Permit required; personal altitude acclimatization essential.
7. Camino de Santiago, Spain/France – Pilgrim Spirit
Why It’s Special in 2026
Digital passport apps, more accessible trailways, and broader waymarking.
Trail Info
- 800km (Francés), 30–35 days, moderate
- Best April–June, September–October
Sustainability & Conservation Initiatives
Pilgrim hostels maximize recycling and water reuse.
Cultural or Local Community Experiences
Village festivals, multilingual encounters, art heritage.
Logistics
No strict entry/permit limits, but some free beds must be reserved online in advance.
8. Annapurna Circuit, Nepal – Himalayan Panorama
Why It’s Special in 2026
Expanded route preservation and focus on climate adaptation limit seasonal mudslides.
Trail Info
- 170–230km, 12–21 days, challenging
- Best March–May, September–November
Sustainability & Conservation Initiatives
Annapurna Conservation Area fees fund rescue and trail repair.
Cultural or Local Community Experiences
Tibetan Buddhist culture, homestays, and markets.
Logistics
Permits required; roads encroaching but dedicated trekker corridors maintained.
Unique Hiking Experiences: Best Hiking Trips by Adventure Style
Best Solo-Friendly Hiking Trips in the World
- Grindelwald Trails, Switzerland: Marked paths, easy transport, self-guided safety. 60% usage jump in 2026.
- Camino de Santiago: Networks, support, and village stops ideal for those hiking alone.
- Laugavegur Trail: Hut-based and manageable in sections for solo trekkers.
Best Hiking Trips for Women Travelers
- Fife Coastal Path, Scotland: Safe, community-oriented, flat to moderate terrain.
- Salkantay Trek, Peru: Alternative to Inca Trail, less crowded, guide-led support common.
- Cinque Terre, Italy: Easily accessible, safe villages throughout the route.
Ultimate Family-Friendly Trails
- Trolltunga, Norway: Manageable duration (6–8hrs), jaw-dropping photo spots, safety improvements in 2026.
- Kalalau Trail, Hawaii: Trail sections for kids, beach camping, wildlife.
- Queen Charlotte Track, NZ: Short daily sections, boating, and wildlife.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Gems for True Explorers
- Huayhuash Circuit, Peru: Remote and less trafficked, challenging multi-day.
- Ausangate Circuit, Peru: Sacred, rainbow-mountain circuit, true isolation.
- Fitz Roy, Argentina: Technical, scenic Patagonian backcountry without crowds.
Luxury and Supported Hiking Vacation Options
- Tour du Mont Blanc: Chalet stays, premium guides, legendary scenery.
- Grindelwald, Switzerland: Upscale huts, seamless transport.
- Mont Blanc Highlights: Curated comfort circuits with guided support.
Hiking Smarter in 2026: Essential Tips for Global Trailblazers
Navigating Permit Changes and Seasonal Closures
- Book permits 6–12 months out; US visitors see new digital systems. Iconic trails (Inca, Havasu) require strict compliance and sometimes last-minute monitoring.
- Fee hikes for international hikers at US parks ($250 annual pass vs $80 for residents in 2026); ID checks now mandatory at entrances.
- Real-time closure info via park apps and official websites.
Staying Safe and Responsible in Remote Destinations
- Monitor storms and seasonal hazards (glacial retreat, fire, flash floods).
- Carry GPS/satellite communicator (e.g., Garmin inReach), first-aid kit, train for elevation.
- Solo travelers: stick to major routes like Camino de Santiago or well-mapped European trails for maximal safety.
Packing & Gear Checklist for Modern Hiking Adventures
- Navigation: GPS device/app, map, compass; download offline maps and carry digital trail permits.
- Shelter/Clothing: Lightweight tent or hut booking, 3-season bag, layers for unpredictable weather.
- Essentials: Headlamp, first-aid kit, multi-tool, water filter, power bank, solar charger.
- Food: Lightweight stove, 2-day emergency rations; always pack snacks for families.
| Category | Essentials | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Backpack & Sleep | 50L pack, 20°F sleeping bag, pad | Compress for air travel |
| Clothing | Merino base, rain jacket, hat, gloves, 3 socks, camp shoes | Quick-dry; no cotton |
| Hydration/Food | 3L bladder, bottles, stove, extra rations | Bear bag for wildlife areas |
| Health/Safety | Meds, sunscreen, repellent, whistle | Permits and ID waterproofed |
| Misc | Trekking poles, trowel, repair kit, cash/cards | Screenshot digital passes |
How to Hike Sustainably in Sensitive Environments
- Follow Leave No Trace: pack out all waste, avoid wildlife disturbance, stick to official paths, and use eco-certified operators.
- Support community-run conservation, volunteer for cleanup if possible, and minimize transport emissions (favor rail or consolidated group shuttles).
- Use refillable water solutions and low-impact, reusable gear.
FAQ: Best Hiking Trips in the World for Your Style and Skill
- What is the best scenic hike for 2026? Tour du Mont Blanc is the stand-out for unmatched alpine views.
- What hike offers the best cultural immersion? Camino de Santiago provides deep historical and local engagement.
- Where should beginners or families start? Try Queen Charlotte Track (NZ) or Fife Coastal Path (Scotland).
- Which hikes are most solo-friendly? Camino de Santiago and Grindelwald Trails rank top for solo trekkers due to infrastructure and support.
- Where can I find the most sustainable trekking? Laugavegur Trail and Torres del Paine W Trek lead in eco-friendly, regulated adventure.
References and Further Reading (2026 Edition)
- Best Hiking Trails in the World 2026
- MT Sobek’s 2026 Top Trails
- Trending Hiking Destinations 2026
- Exodus Top Adventure Trips 2026
- US National Park 2026 Changes
- Climate Impact on Hiking Trails 2026
Ready to plan your next adventure? Browse top trails and book guided treks on AllTrails.