Broken into eight one-day stages, the beauty of this 112 km (69.5 mi) journey lies in its simplicity. The average distance between each stage is 17 km (10.5 m). This allows hikers of all ages and experience to enjoy the route. One can choose to either take on a multi-day excursion, or break the journey into individual stages.

STARTING THE TRAIL

At Dresden’s main central station, trains will take you to whichever stage of the trail you want. Our adventure starts in the small village of Pirna-Liebethal. From there the trail starts climbing into the dramatic Elbe Sandstone highlands. This area is known for tabletop hill settings, plunging ravines, giant caves, and colossal rock pillars. But don’t break out the climbing gear just yet because we’re coming up on one of this hiking routes main attractions. 

Prepare for crowds during the second stage because it is is widely considered the most popular section of The Malerweg Trail. Starting off at Stadt Wehlen, the route takes you into a land of green-carpeted rock formations. Within a few kilometers you’ll arrive at The Painters Way’s most recognized landmark, the Bastei Bridge.

Originally built in 1824, the Baseti sits at 194 m (636 ft) above the Elbe. It connects a series of rock formations overlooking the river and precedes the fortress town of Hohnstein. Descending towards the flatlands near the river and you’ll find an amphitheater carved right into the sandstone. Continue winding down through the Schwedenlöcher and a series of moss colored holes and ravines will greet you on the descent.  

It may only be a 13 km (8.1 mi), but with a total of 502 m (1,647 ft) of high ascensions, stage 2 can still take time. Approaching Hohnstein, you will see the beautiful village of Rathewalde. Then it’s a series of cave tunnels leading into the Polenztal Valley. It can be a tight squeeze, so avoid these caves if you have claustrophobia! 

©Copyright by Frank Richter, licensed under Tourismusverband Sächsische Schweiz e.V 

MIDDLE OF THE TRAIL

The highlight of stage three is an 800-step decent from the 170 m (558 ft) High Brand Viewpoint! I returned to the Malerweg Trail earlier this year with my mother, an avid hiker herself. We decided to tackle stages four and five. They are a stark contrast from the more sovereign settings of the previous stages. Starting off in the riverside town on Bad Schadau, you descend into the post-industrial Kirnitzschtal Valley.

The landscape is littered with old mills. Some are renovated while some have been left to rot. A tramway dating back to the 1890s trudges for 8 km (5 mi) alongside the valley’s central-dip. A pathway then diverts you to the Schrammsteine, a section of sandstone outcroppings that sits 400 m (1,312 ft) above sea level. Its appearance is as equally as dramatic as the views it provides and is a favorite for climbers.

©Copyright by Frank Richter, licensed under Tourismusverband Sächsische Schweiz e.V 

LAST LEG OF THE PAINTERS’ WAY

At the end of the 14 km (8.6 mi) hike, you can spot huge caves, precipices, and waterfalls. We stayed overnight at an old converted saw mill called the Buschmühle (EUR 25 each per night). We slept alongside the valley’s stream. The rustic cabins, barns, and 19^th century artefacts all reminded us of the background used in Twin Peaks.

The following day’s excursion continues to take you through a fusion of old and new eras. Timber yards are now tea-houses, water mills have been converted into breweries and mines are now coffee houses. It’s a tough climb ascending the 556 m (1,668 ft) high Großer Winterberg. Made entirely of granite, the view is usually one to behold.

Saddling the Czech border in mid-March though, our views were limited. Clouds rolled in, reflecting the colors of the gold painted leaves underneath. The aura provided us with a glowing feeling that matched the foliage. Our route finished in the tiny riverside town of Schmilka. From the boat crossing, you can see the old German-Czech border, now a relic of a long-lost time.

In addition, the final three stages take you back along the other side of the river, towards Pirna. First of all, it will join up with another hiking path, the Caspar-David-Friedrich Way. Pay close attention and you might spot the Kaiserkrone and Zirkelstein. They are some of the most noteworthy outcrops that form the setting of Friedrich’s legendary painting mentioned above. Following the Elbe back, your journey takes you across the Königstein fortress. Sitting opposite the Bastei Bridge, the 400-year-old fortification looks more like something from Game of Thrones than anything else in the region.

©Copyright by Frank Richter, licensed under Tourismusverband Sächsische Schweiz e.V

THE MALERWEG TRAIL’S HISTORY

Popularized by painters during Europe’s romantic period; Johann Carl August Richter, Johann Alexander Thiele and the aforementioned, Caspar David Friedrich, these 18^th century artists found the area’s aesthetics perfect for their work. As a result of its vivid colors and breathtaking scenery, The Malerweg Trail takes you to many of the areas used in the famous paintings from this period. 

©Copyright by Frank Richter, licensed under Tourismusverband Sächsische Schweiz e.V

TIPS

Firstly, there are some extremely sharp inclines so hiking poles should also be brought if you have difficulty going up or down steep rises. Although not as muddy as some places in the world, the rain does fall more often that it doesn’t. Always bring a waterproof jacket and rain resistant hiking boots. The underfoot can get wet so keep an eye out for patches of smooth sandstone as these can become quite slippery. 

There are few options for refreshments between each stage, therefore make sure you’re fully loaded with water, snacks, and the occasional outdoor meal. Furthermore, accommodation options are available at the end of each stage range from dormitories to full-on hotel packages. For the more glamorous hiker, you can even have your bags transferred between hotels while you hike.

Also, the Bastei Bridge is huge tourist magnet, so stage 2 can often feel overly packed at times, but the rest of the route sees much fewer hikers. I always avoid summer hiking and normally visit during spring or Autumn, where the colors really stand out.

In addition, if you’re coming from afar, best fly into Berlin and take the two-hour train journey into Dresden. Therefore if you leave early enough, you should be able to start at your desired leaving point by 10 or 11 am. And if the Malerweg Trail doesn’t satiate your wanderlust, then carry on with the train down into Prague where a whole other world awaits you.

WHAT TO BRING WITH YOU

WHAT WE LIKED THE MOST

+ Easy to moderate day hikes open to all levels of hikers.

+ Accommodations and luggage transport available along the way so you can focus more on the trail and less on your pack!

+ Step back into the 18th century with views of authentic mills and other post-industrial buildings.

+ Walk in the same footsteps of Germany’s romantic painters and authors!

WHAT WE DIDN’T LIKE THAT MUCH

– Trails can be slippery when wet!

– The Bastei Bridge can get crowded. 

– Several steep rises and descents – use hiking poles.

©Copyright by Frank Richter, licensed under Tourismusverband Sächsische Schweiz e.V

FINAL THOUGHTS

The Malerweg Trail is a lovely single/multi-day hike that is both beautiful and accommodating to its visitors. Whether you’re staying a day or two or want to tackle the whole eight-day trip, there is something on the trail for everyone to enjoy. In addition, be sure to check out the famous Bastei Bridge at the second stage! 

The post Hiking The Malerweg Trail in Germany appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

This region of the world is home to the highest mountains in the planet. So, as you can imagine, you don’t have to look far to find excellent hiking. Snowcapped peaks, glacial lakes and unique wildlife are what inspires people to travel thousands of miles across the globe to hit the trails here.

Aside from taking in the views of the biggest and baddest mountains in the world, one of the best ways to experience the culture of Asian countries is by foot. Many treks on this list take you to villages far from the reach of modern society and give you a unique look at life of the people who live there.

We’ve already told you the best hikes in Europe, South America and Central America. So now let’s talk about Asia.
 

ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT – NEPAL

The Annapurna Circuit is considered the oldest trek in the Himalayas and one of the best hiking routes in the world. It’s a long trek of 17-21 days depending on which route you take. The highlight of the hike is crossing the Thorung La Pass which is the highest point on the trail at 17,769 ft (5,416m). This circuit isn’t only about stunning landscapes but is also a journey through Nepalese culture, you’ll trek through Buddhist villages and Hindu holy sites. Despite its popularity, the Annapurna Circuit remains at the top of the list of the best treks in Asia.

MOUNT RINJANI – INDONESIA

This trek takes you to the top of Indonesia’s second largest volcano, Mount Rinjani. This adventurous hike that offers a view of the impressive volcanic peak is one of the most popular treks in Indonesia. You’ll climb to the volcano’s crater rim then down into the crater to arrive at a lake. You can also get a look at the mountain’s newest cone, Gunung Baru which only emerged a few hundred years ago.

DINGRI TO MT EVEREST – TIBET

This trek will take you to the base of the highest mountain in the world. Being in the presence of this 29,016 foot (8,844 meters) giant, a mountain that is the holy grail of mountaineers and sacred among the Tibetans and Nepalese is clearly the highlight of this trek from Dingri to Everest.

MANASLU CIRCUIT – NEPAL

Photo by Indrik myneur, licensed under CC BY

This 14 day trek circumnavigates the eighth highest peak in the world. The Manaslu Circuit offers stunning mountain landscapes and an interesting cultural experience like the Annapurna Circuit but without the crowds. This region of Nepal is in a restricted zone which requires a special permit and a guide to travel through. While this is a bit of a hassle, it’s part of the reason why the Manaslu Circuit remains off the beaten path.

MARKHA VALLEY TREK – INDIA

Photo by Devang Vira, licensed under CC BY

This popular trek follow the Markha Valley and is one of the most diverse treks in the Western Himalayas. The route will take you past Buddhist monasteries and remote mountain villages. The highlight of this trek is seeing the peak of Kangyatse. There are homestays along route which make it possible to do this route without carrying stoves, tents and sleeping bags.

THE SNOWMAN TREK – BHUTAN

Photo by Andrew Purdam, licensed under CC BY

This 24 day trek takes you through the most remote regions of Bhutan and into the heart of the Himalaya. It’s an extension of the Laya Gasa Trek and as the length can tell you, it’s only for the most hardcore trekkers. The Snowman Trek has been named as “the most difficult trek in the world” so if you’re looking for a challenge, this hike is for you.

SEORAKSAN NATIONAL PARK – SOUTH KOREA

Photo by mendhak, licensed under CC BY

Seoraksan National Park is home to the third highest mountain in South Korea, Seoraksan. There are a series of well maintained, clearly marked (in Korean & English) hiking trails that run through the park. These trails lead you through the thick forest passed odd shaped rock formations, hot springs and ancient temples.

KAMCHATKA – RUSSIA

Photo by kuhnmi, licensed under CC BY

The Kamchatka is a peninsula in the Far East of Russia that’s larger than the state of California. This is a very geologically active region of the world where fire meets ice, with a great variety of volcanoes, geysers and hot springs to see along the trails. There’s no roads connecting the peninsula with the rest of Russia so helicopter, snowmobile and 4x4s are the only means of transportation to reach the trekking routes. Aside from its volcanic landscape, people come here to see Kamchatka brown bears.

GONDOGORO LA – PAKISTAN

Photo by Stefanos Nikologianis, licensed under CC BY

The Gondogoro La Trek connects the Gondogoro glacier and Baltoro glacier to the Shigar Valley. This trail crosses the Karakorum region of Pakistan and gives you views of K-2, Broad Peak and Masherbrum to name a few. You will have to conquer one of the highest mountain passes in the world, the Gondogoro Pass. It’s best to tackle this trek early in the season (late June), when it is easiest to pass.

TAVAN BOGD – MONGOLIA

Photo by martin_vmorris, licensed under CC BY

Tavan Bogd is a mountain massif located in Mongolia that straddles the borders of China and Russia. The Altai National Park is home to some of the most remarkable landscapes in the country with it’s towering white mountains, 34 glaciers, deep lush valleys, large lakes and waterfalls. You might even cross paths with nomadic herders who are known for their eagle hunting skills and warm hospitality.

TIAN SHAN – KYRGYZSTAN

© Copyright by Journeys On Quest, licensed under CC BY

This large chain of mountain ranges in Central Asia spreads from China, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakstan and Uzbekistan. Trekking in the Tian Shan is about as tough as it gets. Plus, there are no guest houses along the way so you’ll need to carry all of your camping gear. Unlike the Himalaya, the Tian Shan is relatively unexplored due to its inaccessibility.

PAMIR MOUNTAINS – TAJIKISTAN

Photo by llee_wu, licensed under CC BY

In the Pamir range of Tajikistan, you’ll find some of the worlds highest mountains, giving this region of world the name, “the roof of the world”. This is a remote and rugged territory filled with snow capped peaks and alpine lakes. Without a doubt, the Pamirs are the least visited mountain range on this list so those who journey here will be in for a real adventure!

MT KINABALU – MALAYSIA

Photo by Darren Pearce, licensed under CC BY

If you want to enjoy the thrill of summiting a peak but have little experience, this climb to the top of Mt Kinabalu is for you. That’s because it’s one of the easiest peaks in the world to conquer and it only takes two days. Seeing the sunrise from the summit of this mountain makes the journey worthwhile.

The post Top 13 Best Hikes in Asia appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

North America offers some of the very best hiking in the world. Perhaps this is due to the many national parks and protected areas that are spread across Mexico, the USA and Canada. This region offers something for every skill level, from short day hikes to thru-hikes lasting over 20 days. 

The landscapes in North America are the real drawl for hikers. There are expansive canyons, pristine lakes, snow capped peaks, active glaciers, strange rock formations and volcanoes. 

We’ve already told you the best hikes in Europe, South America and Central America. So now let’s talk about the best hikes North America.
 

PACIFIC CREST TRAIL – USA

Photo by andy porter, licensed under CC BY

The Pacific Crest Trail (aka the PCT) is a long-distance route that spans 2,650 miles (4,265 kilometers) from Mexico to Canada. The trail cuts through the states of California, Oregon and Washington and closely follows the highest parts of the Sierra Nevada and Cascade mountain ranges. Being such a long trail, it’s extremely diverse. You’ll walk through arid deserts, glaciated valleys and thick forests as you take in the most stunning landscapes The West has to offer.

GRAND CANYON NORTH RIM – ARIZONA, USA

Photo by Bryan Ungard, licensed under CC BY

The Grand Canyon is one impressive sight to see. It’s 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide and over a mile deep. The Canyon has two rims, the North and the South. The North Rim is more remote, secluded and harder to get to than the South. Uncle Jim Point and the Widforss Trail are just a few of the day hikes you can take to get the best views of the canyon. A visit to the North Rim is also a great way to combine a trip to Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks.  

SUNSHINE TO MT ASSINIBOINE – CANADA

Photo by Jeff Wallace, licensed under CC BY

The hike from Sunshine to Mt Assiniboine is one of the best trails the Canadian Rockies have to offer. Walk the Continental Divide through huge alpine meadows dotted with colorful wild flowers. There’s a lot of wildlife to see in the area like mountain goats, elk, and bighorn sheep. The highlight of this hike is catching a view of Canada’s Matterhorn which shoots up 11,870 ft (3618m).  

PAINT MINES – COLORADO, USA

Photo by Nate Zoch, licensed under CC BY

The Paint Mines Trail is a 3.6 miles loop that take you past a display of hoodoos, caprock canyons and brightly colored clay. Not only is this area of Colorado full of stunning scenery, there’s a lot of human history to be discovered. The mines found here are evidence of human life as far back as 9,000 years ago.

CIRQUE OF THE TOWERS – WYOMING, USA

Photo by andy porter, licensed under CC BY

The Cirque of the Towers is a series of jagged granite spires and peaks that are found deep in the Rockies of Wyoming’s Wind River Range. This is an alpine climber’s paradise but also hikers enjoy this place. A popular 2-4 day loop starts a the Big Sandy Trailhead. This route takes you past glacial lakes and high peaks. The Hiking Wyoming’s Wind River Range book is a great place to start planning your trip.

ANGELS LANDING – UTAH, USA

Photo by trevorklatko, licensed under CC BY

Angels Landing is a 1,488 ft (454 m) rock formation in Zion National Park. This 2.5 mile trail that was cut into solid rock in 1926, will take you all the way to the top of Angels Landing to give you a stunning view of Zion Canyon. The hike isn’t too difficult physically. However, the last section can push you mentally because it’s very steep and the sheer drop-offs can put your nerves on edge. This hike isn’t for people who are afraid of heights! 

COPPERS CANYON TRAIL – MEXICO

Photo by Kintala Photography, licensed under CC BY

Copper Canyon is a group of six distinct canyons in the heart of Mexico’s Tarahumara Mountains. The brightly colored copper and green canyon walls span for 37,000 miles. A hiking adventure here not only means beautiful desert landscapes but getting to understand the culture of the region. This area of Mexico is home to communities of the Raramuris or Tarahumars, the indigenous people that have lived here for centuries and intertwined their lives with the mountains.

JOHN MUIR TRAIL – CALIFORNIA, USA

© Copyright by Images by John ‘K’, licensed under CC BY

The John Muir Trail is a 210 mile (338 km) trail that cuts through the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California. It starts in Yosemite on leads to Sequoia National Park and King Canyon National Park. It’s an action packed trail of thousands of lakes, canyons and granite cliffs. The grand finale is arriving to the sight of Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the continental US.

MT HEALY OVERLOOK TREK – ALASKA, USA

Photo by Drew Stoddard, licensed under CC BY

Mount Healy is one of Alaska’s best walk-up mountains. It’s easy to hike and you don’t need much equipment or technical skill. The Overlook Trail starts out in a thick forest, then you ascend to alpine tundra, full of moss, lichen and wildflowers. The trail comes to a look out that gives you views over the valley and the ridges that surround it. Hardcore hikers can walk another 2 miles to get to the top of the mountain. 

INK POTS TRAIL – CANADA

© Copyright by Teddy Kwok, licensed under CC BY

The Ink Pots Trail starts in Johnston Canyon in Banff National Park. The highlights of this trail are the waterfalls and ink pots. The ink pots are a group of 7 crystal-clear, deep green pools of water. It’s an extremely popular trail with tourists and locals, so weekdays are your best bet for having less crowds.

MANY GLACIER AREA – MONTANA, USA

Photo by sfgamchick, licensed under CC BY

Many Glacier is the heart of Montana’s Glacier National Park. It’s huge mountains, active glaciers, colorful lakes, variety of hiking trails and abundant wildlife make this place a hiker’s dream come true. There are two popular hikes in the national park, the Grinnell Glacier trail and the Iceberg Lake trail.

SMOKYS MOUNTAINS – TENNESSE/NORTH CAROLINA, USA

Photo by Tim Lumley, licensed under CC BY

The Great Smoky mountain range (aka the Smokies) straddles the Tennessee-North Carolina border. The name comes from the natural fog that looms over the range and looks like large smoke plumes from far away. Some of the most popular hikes are Charlies Bunion, Alum Cave Bluffs and Andrew Bald. 

The post Top 12 Best Hikes in North America appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

A long list of questions fill your head: When is the best time of the year to go? What should I pack? And, what about altitude sickness? 

To answer those questions, I have put together this guide to walk you through everything you need to know to plan and prepare for the Langtang Trek, one of the best treks in Nepal. 

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE LANGTANG TREK?

The trek is situated in the Langtang Valley, nearby Kathmandu city. It is the perfect destination for someone who wishes to trek to the Himalayas but is looking for a relatively easy route with shorter walks and lower altitude.

Although it is close to the city, it is hard to tell. The rich ecosystem of the valley is well preserved. The region is a rural landscape comprising of villages, terraced farms and forests encircled with green hills with a backdrop of the white Himalayan ranges.

The route is a scenic one through dense bamboo and rose tree forests that will take you passed waterfalls and snow-capped mountain peaks. The trek is known for having one of the best views of the Annapurna Range.

The bonus that comes along with the wild scenery is the chance to get to know the unique culture of the local people. Because the region is close to the Tibetan border, their culture resembles to theirs’. As you hike through the valley, you will get a chance to learn from their practices and traditions. You will also come across several Buddhist temples and monasteries.

LANGTANG AFTER THE EARTHQUAKE

The April 2015 Nepal earthquake annihilated many homes and lives. Langtang, among all the devastated areas, was one of the most effected region. The catastrophe destroyed almost all the guesthouses and marred some parts of the trek. The region was also closed for trekking for a really long time.

The good news is that the region has been open again for trekking. Most of the guesthouses are still under reconstruction. You might have to spend your nights in tented camps if you can’t find a room in any of the few guesthouses.

The routes that were a part of the trek but were destroyed in the earthquake, have been recreated following a different path. You need not worry about the comfort. The trek is as pleasant as it always has been.

In fact, by trekking to Langtang, you will become a part of rebuilding the region. Your recreation will be a major contribution to the economical upliftment of the local residents.

BEST SEASON TO TREK TO LANGTANG VALLEY

The best seasons to trek to Langtang are autumn and spring. Autumn is from September to December and spring stretches from March to May. The weather is warm and the heat is bearable. There will be very little or no rainfall. The sky will be clear allowing you to get the best view of the mountains.

DIFFICULTY LEVEL

The trek is graded as a moderate trek. Unlike easy treks, moderate treks have longer walks and higher altitudes. The route in some places steeply ascends or descends. You will require an average level of physical fitness to enjoy the trek.

However, a moderate trek doesn’t not require as much skill, knowledge and experience as the strenuous ones. Even if it is your first trekking experience, Langtang can be a good option to start with. If you are overweight or a senior citizen, take enough rest and break up the hike into short walks.

REQUIRED PHYSICAL FITNESS

The Langtang Trek is not a strenuous trek and hence doesn’t require a high level of physical fitness. But it is advisable to be moderately fit for any kind of trek. Being fit will help you enjoy the walk without putting much stress on your body. Train your body a few weeks before the trek. Read up on how to get fit for hiking, go for a city walking tour and do some regular routine exercises.

WHERE CAN I BUY TREKKING GEAR?

You can purchase hiking equipment in your hometown or in Nepal. Nepal has several stores that sale name brand gear as well as some cheaper ones that sell trekking essentials. Most of these stores are in Thamel, which is the most popular area among travellers. You can also rent gear if you don’t want to travel with your own. 

FOOD AND ACCOMMODATION

There aren’t as many teas houses to chose from as before the earthquake but you can still find a few that serve tasty food.

The prefered meal is Dal Bhaat. The dish is filling and will fuel you up for the long walks. Rice is served with lentils, vegetable curry, salad, chutney and meat cooked in Nepali style. The best part of the meal is that you can take as many additional helping of rice and vegetables as you want without having to pay extra.

There are a variety of other dishes. For breakfast, the tea houses serve pancakes, eggs, cereal and porridge. For lunch and dinner, you can also ask for noodles, pasta, momos and various other dishes.

Since most of the guest houses were destroyed during the earthquake, only a few of them are in good condition to accommodate trekkers. You will be either sleeping in tented camps or tea houses depending upon the availability of the rooms.

Do not expect luxurious home stays. The tea houses are simple, comfortable and cozy. In some, you might have to share the restroom which have a squat toilet.

HEALTH CONCERNS

Before trekking, it is always advisable to consult a doctor to check if you are physically healthy enough for high altitudes. But, despite of how fit you may be, there is no guarantee that you won’t fall victim of altitude sickness. There are many symptoms of altitude sickness. Some of them are below:

If you notice any of the symptoms, do not take it for granted. Take necessary precautionary and treatment measures. Some such precautions are:

If you don’t feel better but notice you are feeling worse, you will have to be immediately evacuated in a helicopter. So, make sure you purchase your insurance before you trek. The insurance will cover your health costs such as minor & major injuries and emergency helicopter rescue.

There are a couple of local clinics you can consult for minor injuries. Be sure to read up on how to train for high altitude hiking to avoid getting sick.

HIRING A GUIDE AND A PORTER

While you can hike the Langtang on your own, hiring a guide and a porter is highly advisable. A guide will help you navigate through the mountains and will be there in case of an emergency. An added bonus is he will know the best places to eat and stop for the night. When you go to hire a guide, make sure that he or she is licensed to lead tours.

A porter will carry your baggage for you. This will allow you to enjoy long walks without feeling too tired. Even if you have experience carrying heavy backpacks, breathing the thin air of high altitude makes it much more difficult. 

A tip of 15% of what you pay to hire the guide & porter is recommended.

WHAT TO PACK

It is very important to have the right kind of equipment to enjoy any trek. Below is a generous list of the things you need to pack. Depending on your needs, you could pack more or less.

• Heavyweight gloves or mittens with a waterproof shell outer

• Down vest and/or jacket (optional)

• Fleece or wool pants

• Hiking boots with spare laces

• Thick Wool Hiking Socks

• Footwear For Around Camp (running shoes and/or sandals)

• Gaiters (optional)

• Thermal Base Layers

• Fleece Jacket

• Wind Breaker Jacket (optional)

• Waterproof Shell Jacket

• Thermal Gloves

• Underwear

• Shorts

• Hiking Pants

• Thermal Bottoms

• Sun hat

• T-shirts

• Sunglasses with UV protection (opt to but this at your home country)

• Sleeping bag rated to 0 degrees (3/4 season)

• Head Lamp, spare bulbs & batteries

• Small padlock to lock trek bag

• Plastic bags

• Daypack (35-40 litres/2500-3000 cubic inches)

• Sleeping Pad

• Water bottles

• Small Towel

• Waterproof Pants (preferably breathable fabric)

• Toiletries

• Basic first aid kit

ELECTRONIC DEVICES

It is safe to carry your electronic devices with you. But make sure to purchase a cover to insulate your devices from extreme temperatures. Nepal has acute electricity shortage so pack a lot of spare batteries just in case. In higher altitudes, the tea houses will charge you extra for charging your devices.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Langtang trek is one of the best ways to experience the Himalayas. It has its own special characteristics that make it worth experiencing. It may not be as famous as the Annapurna Base Camp or the Everest Base Camp, but the experience cannot be compared. I hope you have found this guide useful and enjoy your adventure!

The post Hiking The Langtang Trek in Nepal appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

Taking in the dramatic ocean landscapes, going for a refreshing afternoon swim and having lunch in a secluded cove are what drawls hikers to the coast. From New Zealand to South Africa, there’s a walk on this list anyone can enjoy. 

We’ve already told you the best hikes in Europe, South America and Central America. So now let’s talk about the best coastal hikes out there.

GR34 – FRANCE

Photo by Mathieu Brient, licensed under CC BY

The GR34 (aka The Brittany Coastal Path) takes you from Vitré (Ille-et-Vilaine) to Tour-du-Parc (Morbihan). Catching views of the archipelago of Les Sept-Iles (the Seven Islands) and walking the remarkable naturally formed twisting granite labyrinth are some of the highlights. The trail follows the coast the whole time so it’s a very easy walk. 

LYCIAN WAY COASTAL WALK – TURKEY

© Copyright by Warren Talbot, licensed under CC BY

The Lycian Way is a 540 km long footpath that takes you around the coast of ancient Lycia. The mountains rise steeply from the rocky coast, giving beautiful views and varied walking. On this walk you’ll take in the stunning views over the coast from above Kas and Kalkan. You’ll feel as though you’re walk through history as you hike on the Roman roads, old footpaths and mule trails that cuts through this part of southern Turkey. 

KALALAU TRAIL – HAWAII, USA

Photo by Brian, licensed under CC BY

The Kalalau Trail is an 11 mile hike that leads from Ke’e Beach to Kalalau Beach along the Na Pali Coast on the island of Kauai in Hawaii. It’s the only land access to this rugged coast, so if you want to explore it by foot, this is the way to go. While you’re tackling the challenging trails, just remember that you’re headed to one of the most beautiful and remote beaches on the island.

WILD COAST HIKING TRAIL – SOUTH AFRICA

Photo by Davy Demaline, licensed under CC BY

The Wild Coast Trail (aka Transkei) is one of South Africa’s most remote and inaccessible stretches of seashore. On this hike you’ll stroll along empty white-sand beaches and walk up rolling green hills alongside dramatic cliffs. While the name Wild Coast might lead you to think it’s a remote place, there are actually Xhosa villages that can be found all along the coast. It earned its name rather from the many ships and lives that have been claimed along this dangerous coastline.

ANGLESEY COASTAL PATH – UNITED KINGDOM

Photo by Kris Williams, licensed under CC BY

The Anglesey Coastal Path is a 124 mile (200 km) footpath that takes you around the island of Anglesey and gives you some of the best coastal scenery in all of Wales. You’ll walk on wide sandy beaches, through small coves and see dramatic cliffs, sand dunes and forests. Holyhead Mountain, South Stack lighthouse and the sea arches at Bwa Gwyn are some of the highlights of this impressive coastal trail. 

HANA WAIANAPANAPA COASTAL TRAIL – HAWAII, USA

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The Hana Waianapanapa Coastal Trail begins in Kainalimu Bay and follows the rugged lava coastline along the Hawaiian “King’s Highway.” The trail follows the jagged, coastal cliffs, crossing lava flows above caves and underground tunnels. Here, where black rock meets the deep blue ocean, you’ll see blowholes, sea arches, tide pools and an ancient Hawaiian temple site.

BARBUDA WEST COAST BEACH – ANTIGUA & BARBUDA

You will need a minimum of 2 days to explore the whole Barbuda West Coast Beach. Flanked by a inner lagoon the only access to this coast is by walking all the way from the south end. You will enjoy the solitude of a deserted and beautiful endless caribbean beach. During the summer months, keep an eye for leatherback turtles at night. 

OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK – WASHINGTON, USA

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The Olympic National Forest offers excellent year around backpacking. There are a lot 250 miles of trails to choose from in the area so take your pick of seven unique beaches, meandering creeks and ancient forests to explore. Hurricane Hill, Lake Quinault and Lake Crescent are popular trails.

ABEL TASMAN TRACK – NEW ZEALAND

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The Abel Tasman Track takes you along the beautiful golden sand beaches of very top New Zealand’s South Island. It’s one of the country’s Great Walks, which means the condition of the trail and huts along the way are top notch. The track stretches 31 miles (51km) and can be completed in anywhere from 3 to 5 days, depending on your motivation and level of fitness.

PEMBROKESHIRE COASTAL PATH – WALES, UK

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Pembrokeshire Coastal Path passes through some of Britain’s most spectacular and varied scenery. You’ll walk by rugged and steep limestone cliffs, volcanic headlands to sheltered coves, going through glacial valleys, winding estuaries and wide-open beaches. This path is considered one of the best coastal trails in the world. 

TULUM TO PUNTA ALLEN – MEXICO

You won’t find the walk from Tulum to Punta Allen in many of the guides books. But, if you want to really get off the beaten path and enjoy the seculed beaches this region of Mexico has to offer, load up your pack and hit the beach. This walk takes you along the pristine coastline of Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. Don’t forget to pack your machete to enjoy some fresh coconuts along the way. 

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TOUR DU MONT BLANC – FRANCE, ITALY & SWITZERLAND

Photo by Didier Weemaels, licensed under CC BY

Usually referred as the TMB, the Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the best hiking trails in Europe. It traverses 170km (110 mi) passing through the countries of France, Italy and Switzerland to circumnavigate the entire Mount Blanc Massif in the Western Alps. The classic route is normally walked anti-clockwise over 11 days. An extraordinary journey for anyone wanting to explore one of the best hiking areas in Europe. If you want to get started thru-hiking, check out these tips.  

ALTA VIA 1 – ITALY

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Connecting the towns of Dobbiaco in the North and Belluno in the South, the Alta Via Uno is an incredible hiking journey through the Eastern Dolomites of Italy. It covers 120 km (75 mi) and it reaches its highest point at 2,752 mt (9,029ft). Hikers normally take around 10 days to complete the entire route where they can contemplate the beauty of many famous peaks such as the Tofana, Lagazuoi, Pelmo and of course the mighty Civetta.

THE KINGS TRAIL – SWEDEN

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Kungsleden (aka The Kings Trail) is a 440 km (270 mi) route that passes through the Vindelfjällens Nature Reserve in Sweden, one of the biggest protected areas in Europe. Most of the walkers only do a section of it. The journey is a hiking trail in summer and a ski trail in winter, and there are many mountain huts along the way to break your journey at. 

GR20 – CORSICA

Photo by Jean-Baptiste Bellet, licensed under CC BY

The GR20 crosses Corsica diagonally from north to south in 180 km (111 mi). It’s considered the most difficult of all the GR routes and, by many, as one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Europe. It can be walked in 15 days and although no climbing equipment is needed, a good level of fitness is a must. 

HOT SPRING ROUTE – ICELAND

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The variety of landscapes you can enjoy in just 55 km (34mi) is what makes the Laugavegur (aka Hot Springs Route) one of the most popular hikes in Iceland. The trail is normally completed in 2-4 days and links the hot springs area of Landmannalaugar with the glacier valley of Pórsmörk. If you’re looking for a longer route, it’s possible to combine this trek with the Fimmvörðuháls trail for an additional 2 days of walking. 

SLOVENIAN MOUNTAIN TRAIL – SLOVENIA

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The Slovenian Mountain Trail (SPP) covers all the Alpine ranges in Slovenia (Kamnik Alps, Karavanke and Julian Alps), starting with a hike across Pohorje, over the Dinaric ridges and crossing the magnificent Karst Edge to end up right on the coast at Ankaran. It covers 500 km (310 mi) and it takes around 30 days to complete. If that isn’t enough, the highest point on the way is none other than Slovenia’s highest peak, Triglav. 

HAUTE ROUTE – SWITZERLAND

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Located in a world of glaciers, towering snow-capped peaks, green alpine valleys and picturesque villages, the Houte Route is a trek of contrasts. It’s also a demanding summer hike that takes around 10 to 12 days to complete the 180 km (111.8 mi) between the towns of Chamonix (France) and Zermatt (Switzerland). It’s easy to understand why many hikers consider the Haute Route as one of the best treks in Europe. 

CINQUE TERRE COASTAL TRAIL – ITALY

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The five picturesque Italian towns of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso (all considered part of the UNESCO world heritage list) are linked by a 11 km (6.8 mi) long coastal route. The whole trail can easily be walked in 6 hours but most of the walkers do it in 2 days, so you can enjoy longer times at the towns enjoying the beautiful architecture, the views over the Mediterranean Sea and sampling some delicious Italian food. 

EAGLES WALK – AUSTRIA

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Whether you plan to do a day trip or a multi-day hiking route, the Eagles Trail offers endless opportunities for all levels of hikers. Covering a total of 412 km (256 mi) crossing the entire Austria from East to West, the trail is broken into 33 stages allowing you to choose a specific section according to your preferences. Best of all, the route can easily be accessed from several regions across Tirol. 

CAMINO DE SANTIAGO – SPAIN

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A spiritual path for some and a hiking adventure for others, El Camino is any pilgrimage route to the shrine of the apostle St James in the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Northern Spain. There are many different routes, starting points and distances to choose from, being the most popular the French Way starting in Roncesvalles (Spain) or in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port (France). 

WESTWEG TRAIL – GERMANY

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As part of the European Long Distance Trail E1, the Westweg crosses the Black Forest in South-West Germany linking the towns of Basel and Pforzheim. The trail is around 285 km (177 mi) and passes many small villages on its way, making it easy to find accommodation and food while on route. There are also services available that will transport your luggage to the next accommodation available, leaving you with just a day pack to hike with. 

WEST HIGHLAND WAY – SCOTLAND

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The 154km (96 mi) that connect the towns of Milngavie and Fort William is what is called the West Highland Way, the most popular hiking route in Scotland. This long distance hike can be completed in 6-8 days and offers a tremendous variety of sceneries ranging from pastoral landscapes to the more rugged Highlands. 

CENTRAL PICOS CIRCUIT – SPAIN

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The Picos de Europa mountain range offers all kinds of walks ranging from day hikes to multi-days routes from hut to hut. The Central Picos Circuit combines the Central Picos Transverse with the Cares George and the Jermoso Transverse to make a 5-6 trek through the most impressive areas of Northern Spain. 

RETEZAT MOUNTAINS – ROMANIA

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A very little known mountain range in Europe is the Retezat Mountains in Romania. They are part of the Southern Carpathians and the possibilities for hiking adventures are endless. From day trips to multi-day hiking routes, there are two main areas to explore. The Limestone Retezat with lower altitudes and plenty of caves and gorges, and the Central Retezat, with higher peaks, valleys and glacier lakes. A fantastic option if you’re looking to experience some of the best hiking in Europe without the crowds.

HARDANGERVIDDA TRANSVERSE – NORWAY

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Crossing the Hardangervidda Plateau is a tough and challenging adventure only suited for the fit and experienced hiker. It takes between 7 and 12 days to do the whole transverse depending on your route choice. While you might see other people near the main huts, you will spend the majority of your time enjoying the untouched corners of this region of Norway in solitude. If you’re not up for the full-on adventure, there are shorter and easier options for less experienced hikers. 

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Hiking isn’t the main attraction for travelers coming to Africa but, it’s still one of the best ways to experience the beauty of the landscapes, animals and people of this continent. While Mount Kilimanjaro steals the fame for trekking in Africa, there are so many more adventure junkie worthy trails to be explored.

One of our goals here at The Adventure Junkies is to inspire you to go on more adventures. That’s why we’ve created this list, to get you dreaming about hitting the trails. We’ve already talked about the best hikes in Asia, South America and Europe, so now lets see what are the best hikes in Africa that are worth your time and energy.

1. MT KENYA SUMMIT, KENYA

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Mount Kenya is the highest mountain in Kenya and the second highest in all of Africa. Getting to the summit will require technical climbing through a variety of rock or ice route. If you’re not an experienced climber you can enjoy the hike to Point Lenana, a side peak of Mt. Kenya. From this point you get impressive views of the rock towers of Batian and Nelion, as well as glacial lakes and the expansive landscape of Mt. Kenya National Park.

2. BLYDE RIVER CANYON, SOUTH AFRICA

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There are dozens of hiking trails winding along the river, each offering a unique view of the Blyde region. One the best day hikes is the Leopard Trail which takes you to the Three Rondavels. These are massive, round rocks, thought to be reminiscent of the huts of the indigenous people.

3. DANAKIL DEPRESSION, ETHIOPIA

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The Danakil Depression is one of the most inhospitable regions in the world. It’s in a remote corner of Ethiopia and will require a guide to get there. While most of this trip is in a 4×4, there are hiking sections, like the walk to Erta Ale Volcano. The summit caldera of this volcano is famous for its active lava lakes, some of the few permanent ones in the world. A night trek is the best way to see the lava boil and glow.

4. FISH RIVER CANYON, NAMIBIA

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This 52 mile (85 km), 4 day trail will take you into the second largest canyon in the world, the Fish River Canyon. It’s considered one of Africa’s toughest hikes, so be ready for a challenge. More than will, you’ll need fitness and strength because once you start, there’s no way out! If you’re up for it, you’ll have the chance to hike through 5 billion years of geological history.

5. MOUNT MULANJE – MALAWI

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If you ever find yourself in Malawi, find a way to get to Mount Mulanje. This massif of twisted granite that rises from the surrounding plains is considered one of the country’s most beautiful mountain areas. There’s a system on 8 mountain huts and large network of trails that link them together. Mulanje also has some of the largest granite inselbergs and the best granite climbing around.

6. ATLAS MOUNTAINS – MOROCCO

Photo by Juan Fco. Marrero, licensed under CC BY

The High Atlas is North Africa’s greatest mountain range and is one of the most spectacular areas of Morocco. One of the best places for hiking is in the Toubkal National Park. Aside from the impressive views, a visit to this region of Morrocco is a step back in time, where you can visit villages and meet the Berber people who survive in these high mountains the same way they have for centuries.

7. MT KILIMANJARO SUMMIT – TANZANIA

Photo by Sam Hawley, licensed under CC BY

If you want to feel on top of the world (or at least Africa), this trek to the summit of Kilimanjaro is for you. But, be prepared, you’re in for a real challenge. This dormant volcano in Tanzania rises 19,308 ft (5,885 m) from the ground, while it’s not technically challenging be prepared to feel the altitude.

8. RWENZORI MOUNTAINS – D.R.CONGO/UGANDA

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The Rwenzori Mountains (aka Mountains of the Moon) straddle the border of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda. This World Heritage Site offers a chance to see nature at its best. You’ll trek passed high glaciers, a sweeping valley with nine lakes, with rocky cliffs and snow capped peaks lining the background.

9. MURCHISON FALLS – UGANDA

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The raging Murchison Falls and possible wild animal encounters make Murchison Falls National Park one of Uganda’s very best national parks. While Murchison is no competitor to the Serengenti, there are still possibilities to spot the 76 species of mammals that live within the forest reserve. Nile crocodiles, buffalos, lions and elephants are all animals you might cross paths with here.

10. SIMIEN MOUNTAINS – ETHIOPIA

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The Simien trek is one of the best cliff walks around that will get you up close to baboons and ibex. There’s also a chance to see the rare Ethiopian wolf. The Simien National Park is sometimes called the Grand Canyon of Africa for its deep valleys. There’s one to twelve day treks available through this special corner of Ethiopia.

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So don’t expect this list to be just another “copy and paste” list from the internet. You won’t find any of the famous hiking trails here unless we truly believe they’re unique and worth your time. Most of the time those famous routes are packed with people and the scenery is just OK if you compare them to some of the lesser known trails. So, having that in mind it can be controversial leaving some of the “lonely planet hikes” out but these are in our opinion the best treks in South America. Enjoy! 
 

HUAYHUASH CIRCUIT – PERU

A 8 to 12 days hike, depending of your route choice, the Huayhuash Circuit is probably the best hike in South America. It’s a one tough route with 7 passes over 4,500 meters (2-3 or them over 5k!). You will be camping by the huge and mighty peaks of Siula Grande, Jirishanca and Yerupaja in a high altitude environment located in the heart of the Peruvian Andes. And, the best thing is you won’t see many other hikers around.

KAIETEUR FALLS TREK – GUYANA

Photo by Tim Snell, licensed under CC BY

A combination of 4×4, canoe, and trekking adventure will bring you to the Kaieteur Falls, the highest single-drop waterfall in the world. The route is located deep in the Amazon rainforest and encounters with diverse wildlife are not rare. Aside from the impressive beauty of the falls, this hiking route is worth the effort just on its own. 

CERRO CASTILLO – CHILE

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During the 34 miles (and 7,200 feet of vertical ascent) that covers the whole Cerro Castillo circuit you will find a bit of everything: a nice and smooth singletrack, thick forest with Patagonian fauna and two mountain passes. A very little known hike in Chile where you can enjoy nature and solitude without the crowds of the other popular hiking trails in Patagonia. 

AUSANGATE TREK – PERU

The colorful mountain is, without any doubt, one of the most unique places on the planet. Located in Southern Peru, the Ausangate Trek is a 5-day hiking adventure that takes you around the sacred Apu Ausangate to end up at this colorful mountain. Here red meets green and yellow to create a spectacular photo opportunity.

EL ALTAR TREK – ECUADOR

Although it’s very weather dependent, the Altar Trek is a fantastic option to hike off the beaten path in the Ecuadorian Andes. Located in the Sangay National Park, this 3-day hike (longer options are possible) will take you all the way up to the “altar”, where a yellow lagoon is surrounded by snow-capped peaks facing an imposing valley.  

RORAIMA TREK – VENEZUELA

Photo by Luis Castro, licensed under CC BY

Located in the Pakaraima chain of tepui platues, Mount Roraima is the highest of them all. It takes around 6 days to complete this very diverse hike that crosses savannah, thick cloud forest and rivers on its way to the mighty mountain. Bizarre stone formations and unique plants are seen almost every day and shape the landscape of this region.  

ACONCAGUA BASE CAMP – ARGENTINA

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You don’t need to be a mountaineer and climb the highest peak of the continent to enjoy the surroundings of Aconcagua. There are different options available for multi-days hiking excursions. The most popular spots are Plaza Francia and Plaza de Mulas, from where you can enjoy different walls of this South American giant.

CONDORIRI TREK – BOLIVIA

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The Condoriri Trek is just one of the many incredible hiking opportunities in the Cordillera Real, in Northern Bolivia. This 3-day hike offers spectacular views overlooking the immense Condoriri Massif, 13 snow packed peaks ranging from 5,100 – 5,648m, many glaciated peaks and distant views of Lake Titicaca. It’s also a great place for spotting condors.

LOST CITY TREK – COLOMBIA

Located deep in the jungle in the Sierra Nevada of Santa Marta, the Lost City of the Tayrona had been forgotten for centuries. It wasn’t until 1972 that it was rediscovered by a group of guaqueros (tomb robbers) and, after decades of guerrilla and paramilitary groups activity in the area, the Ciudad Perdida trek is finally safe for travelers. The hike to the Ciudad Perdida takes 4-6 days to complete and it’s not possible to do it independently. 

FITZ ROY – ARGENTINA

The Mount Fitz Roy is one of the most technically challenging summits for mountaineers on Earth. That difficulty can be paired to its beauty of almost vertical walls that makes it one of the iconic peaks in Patagonia. If you aren’t into conquering mountains, there are plenty of hiking opportunities here. It’s possible to easily explore the area by doing day-hikes from El Chaltén or by different combinations of overnight routes ranging from 2 to 5 days.  

SIERRA NEVADA DEL COCUY – COLOMBIA

Photo by Santiago Duarte, licensed under CC BY

The Sierra Nevada del Cocuy is a little known mountain range of high snow capped peaks located in Northern Colombia. National Geographic calls El Cocuy “a heaven for mountaineers and rock climbers, with glaciated peaks over 17,000 feet and tons of rarely explored alpine terrain”. It’s a true hiker’s dream. Here it is possible to spot animals such as the spectacled bear, tapirs, eagles, Andean condors and deers.

CHAPADA DIAMANTINA – BRAZIL

Photo by Andrea Moroni, licensed under CC BY

The 5-days Chapada Diamantina Circuit will take you to a Hidden World in the remote Chapada Diamantina National Park of Brazil. You will hike past towering waterfalls (including Cachoeira da Fumaça, the highest in Brazil), underground rivers and camp by crystal clear water pools in hidden caves. You’ll walk up and over dramatic table-top mountain plateaus and down to lush plains. A real adventure junkies’ paradise! 

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Hikers will love Central America for its diversity and uncrowded trails. While its neighbour South America steals the fame for epic treks, Central America offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature and soak in landscapes. There’s tropical rainforest filled with hundreds of species of wildlife. There’s lakes and volcanoes. You can even climb a volcano that’s in the middle of a lake!

Here’s 10 of the best hiking in Central America that will give you a unique perspective of this region of the world.

VOLCANO RINCÓN DE LA VIEJA SUMMIT, COSTA RICA

Photo by Patrick Nouhailler, licensed under CC BY

Rincon de la Vieja is a huge active volcano with 9 craters. It’s located in a national park in the Guanacaste region of Costa Rica. As you walk through lust tropical forests you’ll come across hot springs, mud pots, waterfalls and steam vents. There’s also a huge variety of plant and wildlife to be seen along this trail. Capuchin, howler, and spider monkeys along with armadillo and peccary are often seen. The 10 miles (16 km) return crater trail takes you to the summit of the volcano where you can soak in the panoramic view. On a very clear day there are chances of seeing both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. For the best views, go between December and April.

COCKSCOMB BASIN, BELIZE

In Belize, you have the opportunity to hike in the world’s only jaguar reserve, The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. There are several trails around the reserve where you have chances of spotting wildlife. If the idea of coming face to face with a feline predator in the wild makes you sweat, don’t worry, jaguars are a bunch scaredy cats! So what can you see? There are other possible cat sightings such as Puma, Ocelot, Jaguarundi and Margay. Other jungle animals living in the basin are Peccary, Paca, Brocket Deer, Tayra and Otter. Birdwatchers will be in paradise with over 300 species to try to spot.

TELICA VOLCANO, NICARAGUA

If you want to look into the core of the Earth, this trek is for you. This trail takes you the edge of the Telica Volcano – literally. There’s no guard rail here, so get as close as you dare to the crater of one of Nicaragua’s most active volcanoes. You can even camp out at the base. This option lets you see the crater at night, which is the most impressive time to see the red hot lava glow as it spews out of the earth. You’ll also snap one cool picture in the morning of your tent with a giant steaming volcano in the background!

CERRO CHIRRIPÓ, COSTA RICA

Photo by Bolívar Rojas-Vargas, licensed under CC BY

This is a challenging 2 day hike that reaches the summit of Cerro Chirripó, Costa Rica’s highest point at 12,532 ft (3,820 m). Hiking this trail is one of the best ways to take in the beauty of this country. Colorful flowers dot the landscape, monkeys roam the jungle and the terrain is varied. It’s a strenuous and steep hike to the top. The best way to get the most out of your efforts is to wake up early to enjoy the sunrise. On a very clear day, you’ll feel on top of Costa Rica with wide stretched views of both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea. An added bonus is there’s hot springs to nearby to relax in after this tough hike.

VOLCANO CONCEPCIÓN – NICARAGUA

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Nicaragua is known as the land of lakes and volcanos. Here, on the island of Ometepe you can even hike to the top of an active volcano that’s in the middle of a lake! To reach the summit of Volcano Concepción and scramble back down to the base you’ll be in for a 10 hour grueling hike. The reward is once you reach the top you’ll be able to look into the volcano’s crater and see hot air burst out. This is one of the most difficult hikes on Ometepe but the view makes it worth it.

ACATENANGO VOLCANO HIKE – GUATEMALA

Acatenango is Guatemala’s third highest volcano. It last erupted in 1972 and has been dormant ever since. The climb to the top offers one of the most impressive views in the whole country.  Unlike some of the other volcano summits on this list, you’ll go through many diverse ecosystems. The trail starts with a climb alongside corn fields that cling to the steep slopes, then on through a cloud forest until you arrive to the volcanic zone, where the ground is black silt and there are no trees in sight. From the top you’ll get views of Lake Atitlan, and Acatenango’s neighbor Fuego, the worlds most consitantly erupting volcano. 

DARIEN NATIONAL PARK- PANAMA

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The Darien Jungle which connects Colombia to Panama is infamous for being a drug smuggling corridor. As you can image, it’s the least visited destination of this list. While attempting to cross the gap isn’t recommended, there are many hiking opportunities on the Panamanian side of this jungle in the Darien National Park. Due to it’s remoteness and the fact it is relatively untouched from the outside world, the Darien region of Panama remains one of the most bio diverse places in the country. It’s home to indigenous Kuna people, hundreds of species of wildlife and plenty of poisonous insects and frogs. If you want a real off the beaten path adventure, the Darien is the place for you.  

MONTE VERDE CLOUD FOREST RESERVE – COSTA RICA

Photo by Bernard DUPONT, licensed under CC BY

Monte Verde is one of the most visited places in Costa Rica but that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth a visit. The cloud forest is home to the world’s largest orchid collection, thousands of species of plants, insects, birds and mammals. It’s easy to feel close to nature as you’ll be surrounded by a world of green on this hike. The circuit trail is 14 miles (23 km) long and takes 1-2 days to complete. 

SAN PEDRO VOLCANO – GUATEMALA

Lake Atitlan, located in the highlands of Guatemala is an enormous lake surrounded by volcanos. There are a few hikes to choose from but the San Pedro Volcano hike is one of the most popular. After 3-4 hours of hiking you reach the top where you can get an impressive view of Lake Atitlan and the surrounding volcanoes. 

CORCOVADO – COSTA RICA

Photo by Peter Nijenhuis, licensed under CC BY

If you want to spot wildlife, Corcovado National Park is the hiking destination for you. The trails will take you along deserted beaches and into the lush tropical rainforest. Here monkeys jump from branch to branch, anteaters roam the jungle floor, sloths lazily cling to the trees and scarlet macaws fly over head. This national park truly is a nature lovers paradise.

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We had just come from the Cordillera Blanca in the center of the country where we hiked the Huayhuash Circuit and the Santa Cruz trek. We were eager to see what hiking opportunities the Cusco region had in store.

SETTING OFF ON THE CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK

We arrived at Capuliyoc, the start of the Choquequirao Trek with our guide Arturo, Chef Mauro and Laurence, a fellow hiker. Beltran, the muleteer was already at the trailhead with his team of horses and mules. Our goal was to make it to the ancient metropolis of Choquequirao and end in Vilcabamba, home of ruins of Vitcos, the last refuge of the Incas. 

The mid morning sun peaked through the clouds as we began on our descent into the Apurimac Canyon. From cactus covered cliffs we caught glimpses of the snowcapped peaks of Padrayoc and Wayna Cachora mountains. The contrast of landscapes was dramatic.

The next day, at the break of dawn we set off from the rivers edge to face a wall of zigzags that carved the mountain. Our pace was quick for two reasons. Number one, we were racing the sun, higher elevation means cooler temperatures. Number two, the army of tiny sandflies that were enjoying a feast on our skin was driving us mad. We could only hope that higher in the mountains would we escape these flying vampires.

A CITY HIDDEN IN THE RAINFOREST

The steep zigzagging trail had lead us high into the mountains where we began to see thick vegetation, the start of the rainforest. Through the trees we spotted terraces that were carved out on the steep mountain slope, our first view of the ancient city of Choquequirao.

The trail lead us further into the forest. We came to a high stone wall and followed it until it led us to the edge of the mountain. From both sides there were temples and the houses of the royal family. Straight ahead the sun cut through the horizon, painting shadows on the mountain ridges. The Apurimac River glisend in the evening light creating a golden line that cut through the valley floor.

The first thought that came to my mind was these Incas sure did have an eye for incredible real estate.

Arturo began to explain what laid before us. We soon found out it wasn’t the Incas who had built this city. Archeologists had found bones and artifacts which dated much earlier which led them to the conclusion that the city had been the work of a Pre-Inca civilization which was later taken over by the Incas.

He did his best to tell us what he knew about the site but the truth was very little is known about Choquequirao. There had been written documentation of the site but when the Spanish conquistadors took power, all of this was destroyed. Leaving little to no historical records.

Arturo had been around when archeologist began excavations and research so most of his knowledge had come from asking them questions and jotting down their answers in a notebook.

There were no other people at the ruins, something very different from the nearby famous Machu Picchu. Why is that? Accessibility. Choquequirao is at over 2,900 meters and takes a minimum of two days of challenging hiking to reach.

“It’s like Machu Picchu in the 1940s,” says Gary Ziegler, an American archaeologist who has written a book on Choquequirao.

The solitude gave us the chance to take in beauty of the city and ponder the mystery that surrounds it.
 

MACHU PICCHU’S SISTER

While Choquequirao has been referred to as “the other Machu Picchu” it should be seen as it’s sister instead. In fact there are other cities linked by Inca Trails that can be seen as a connected city system rather than individual sites. All these cities have many things in common, the sites were meticulously planned and designed in accordance with astronomical alignments, and were precisely built in relationship to sacred rivers, mountains, and celestial phenomena.

There are two hypothosises as to why the city was built. One is that before the Spanish conquistadors arrived, the Incas had dreams of expanding their empire into the Amazon. It’s believed Choquequirao was used along with Machu Picchu and other cities to slowly take control of the jungle. The second hypothesis is that as the Spanish began to take control, the Incas moved into the mountains to take refuge. This is where the name cradle of gold comes from, that they used the city to stash gold and hide it from the conquistadors.

One thing is clear: a visit to these ruins will only leave you with more questions than answers.

LLAMA TERRACES

From the main plaza we made are way down a trail that lead us to a series of terraces. They appeared to be quite ordinary until we walked along them and found enlaid llama figures made of white stones. By the time we reached the lookout we could see hundreds of feet of lined terraces that came down the mountain.

MIST AND MYSTERY

The next morning we woke from our camp at the base of the ruins to a valley covered in thick mist. We packed our bags and made another trip to explore the city.

LOOK UP!

Two days before we had left Choquequirao, making a descent back to the river and were faced with an uphill climb the next day. This is the nature of the hike, steep up & downs.

We arrived to a 4,100 meter mountain pass that we reached by walking up the killer switchbacks all morning long. We put down our packs to take in the view. Vibrant green mountains touched the sky, their ridges plummet into the valley below. Clouds formed sheets around the peaks and traveled through space in waves as if in a time lapse film.

Through the clouds, a condor appeared and flew right before our lookout. Then another flew in and they began to soar between the peaks. Arturo told us that’s not something you see everyday, judging by the smile on his face, it was clear he wasn’t lying.

CAMPING IN THE CLOUDS

From the pass we made our way down to the village of Yanama. Camp was set up in front of Beltran’s, the muleteers house. While his home was modest, the view was worth a million bucks.

FOLLOWING THE INCA TRAIL

The majority of the trail has been constructed by trail builders to make a safe route for pack mules however, the last section of the trek we followed a recently uncovered Inca Trail.

THE LAST REFUGE OF THE INCAS

We had cut through valleys and climbed another pass to reach the town of Huancacalle, in the Vilcabamba region, the home of the ruins of Vitcos. While Machu Picchu takes the fame when it comes to Incan ruins, Vitcos is considered to be the most important site because it was the last refuge of the Incas. Once the Spanish took control Manco Inca fled to Choquequirao and later to Vitcos, where he maintained control until he was murdered. 

WHERE TO STAY IN CUSCO

THE GRASSHOPPER HOSTEL – BUDGET

The staff at the Grasshopper Hostel are among the best you can find in Peru. Rooms are clean, new and very spacious (no bunk beds here!). The Wi-Fi connection is pretty decent and breakfast includes coffee, tea, bread, cereal and yogurt. A fantastic place for those on a budget.

LA CASONA LES PLEIADES – MID RANGE

Located in the heart of the San Blas neighbourhood, La Casona Les Pleiades is a charming boutique hotel. Rooms are comfortable and clean, the staff is super friendly and the Wi-Fi is lightning fast. A gourmet breakfast of fresh juice, eggs made to order and toasts is included.

ILLA HOTEL – HIGH END

The Illa Hotel is the best option for those looking for a high end hotel, centrally located and with high standards. Built around a wonderful old colonial court, the place has been recently renovated and includes a few nice touches like bottled water, heater and free hot drinks. 
 

WHAT WE LIKED THE MOST

+ The ecosystems are always changing allowing you to see a variety of landscapes. You go through canyons, deserts, rainforest and passed glacier peaks. 

+ The Choquequirao ruins have an interesting history.  

+ We saw no other people at the ruins, this sense of solitude was a special feeling. 

+ Watching the sunset cast a golden glow on the llama terraces. 

+ Seeing condors fly close by.

WHAT WE DIDN’T LIKE THAT MUCH

– It’s a very challenging hike with lots of up & downs, leaving us dreaming of a zipline to connect the mountains.

– Lots of sand flies at the lower camps.

– Dusty trails and heat during dry season.

WHAT TO TAKE WITH YOU

For the Choquequirao Trek with Apus Peru, mules carry your duffel bag and they provide tents. During the day you only need to take a small day pack to carry your personal items (rain jacket, sunblock, snacks, water, etc…). You’ll also need to bring your own sleeping bag or rent one. A bag with a rating of at least -10°C is recommended. Here’s our complete checklist for multi-day hiking trips.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The Choquequirao Trek is a challenging hike that takes you to some of the most important archeological sites in Peru. It’s a memorable adventure for history enthusiasts and experienced hikers. Due to the remoteness and inaccessibility of the Choquequirao ruins, hikers will enjoy solitude and no crowds while exploring the site.

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