A World Trekking Bucket List You'd Want to Walk Once

This trek is not about climbing the world's highest peak but walking to the base camp following the Sherpa villages, monasteries, and glacier valleys. The key is to acclimatize thoroughly at Namche and Dingboche, as shorter itineraries increase the risk of altitude sickness, so extra days should be viewed as a safety measure rather than a cost.

Practical Information: Located in Nepal, with a peak elevation of approximately 5,545m (Kala Patthar). The best travel times are generally from March to May and October to November, and the typical route is 'Lukla ~ Namche ~ Dingboche ~ Gorak Shep ~ EBC'. A standard itinerary usually takes about 12 to 16 days round trip, but it's wise to allow more time depending on weather, fitness, and waiting times for transport. The perceived difficulty is difficult, and for permits and bookings, you must check the 'National Park & Local Permits and the Latest Guide Regulations'. Be particularly cautious of altitude sickness, flight delays, cold, and dehydration. Operating periods and entry regulations may change, so it's a good idea to check the linked official and public guides shortly before departure.

Starting from a deep valley, this trek takes you into a circular glacial terrain surrounded by peaks over 8,000m. It is generally designed to be shorter than the Everest region, but with repeated ascents and descents, the danger varies based on snow conditions above Deurali, so local judgment should be followed.

Practical Information: Located in Nepal, with a peak elevation of 4,130m. The best travel times are generally from March to April and October to November, and the typical route is 'Pokhara ~ Chomrong ~ Machapuchare BC ~ ABC'. A standard itinerary usually takes about 7 to 11 days, but it's advisable to allow more time depending on weather, fitness, and waiting times for transport. The perceived difficulty ranges from moderate to difficult, and for permits and bookings, check the 'Protected Area Permit and the Latest Group Regulations'. Pay attention to long stone steps, avalanche-prone areas, and monsoon landslides. Operating periods and entry regulations may change, so it’s good to check the linked official and public guides shortly before departure.

This long-distance trek connects villages and passes across three countries, providing a comprehensive experience of glaciers, pastures, and Alpine culture. While it's not technically climbing, significant elevation changes occur daily, so maintaining physical fitness for hiking and foot care is crucial, and popular mountain huts may sell out months in advance.

Practical Information: Spanning France, Italy, and Switzerland, with the highest pass at approximately 2,665m. The best travel times are generally from late June to September, and the typical route is 'departure from Les Houches, circumambulating Mont Blanc Massif'. A standard itinerary usually takes about 9 to 12 days, but it’s advisable to allow more time based on weather, fitness, and transport waiting times. The perceived difficulty is moderate to difficult, and regarding permits and bookings, verify that 'border permits are usually not required, but prior booking for huts is essential'. Pay particular attention to storms, residual snow, complete huts, and daily accumulated elevation gains. Operating periods and entry regulations may change, so you should check the linked official and public guides shortly before departure.

This iconic Patagonian route condenses granite towers, turquoise lakes, and glaciers into a short itinerary. While the geographical elevation is lower than the Himalayas, the winds and cold rain can make it quite challenging, and accommodation reservations must be interconnected to establish your itinerary.

Practical Information: Located in Chile, with a peak elevation of around 1,200m. The best travel times are generally from November to March, and the typical route includes 'Torres, French Valley, and Grey Glacier W section'. A standard itinerary usually takes about 4 to 6 days, but it's wise to allow more time based on weather, fitness, and transport waiting times. The perceived difficulty is moderate to difficult, and regarding permits and bookings, check that 'park entry tickets and reservations for designated campsites and lodges are mandatory'. Pay attention to strong winds, four seasons in a day, and the inability to stay without a reservation. Operating periods and entry regulations may change, so it’s good to check the linked official and public guides shortly before departure.

This historical trek connects the Andean passes, cloud forests, and Inca ruins, culminating in your entry to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate on the last day. Daily participant numbers are limited, and since it's not a free trek for individuals, your passport information and dates need to be finalized early.

Practical Information: Located in Peru, with a peak elevation of approximately 4,215m. The best travel times are generally from May to September, and the typical route is 'Km 82 ~ Dead Woman’s Pass ~ Sun Gate'. A standard itinerary typically spans about 4 days, but it's advisable to allow more time based on weather, fitness, and transport waiting times. The perceived difficulty is difficult, and verify that 'official permits and accompanying by a certified operator are required, with early sell-out likely'. Be particularly cautious of altitude sickness, steep stone steps, and closures or maintenance during the rainy season. Operating periods and entry regulations may change, so it's a good idea to check the linked official and public guides shortly before departure.

One of the highest independent peaks in the world, this trek can be attempted without technical climbing gear, but the notion that 'you can simply walk' is misleading. The key to increasing success is a long acclimatization schedule and slow walking pace, and on summit day, hiking during the night to tackle significant elevation gain requires special attention to strength and warmth management.

Practical Information: Located in Tanzania, with a peak elevation of 5,895m. The best travel times are generally from January to March and June to October, and typical routes include 'Machame, Lemosho, Marangu, etc.'. A standard itinerary typically extends over 6 to 9 days; however, it's wise to allow more time depending on weather, fitness, and transport waiting times. The perceived difficulty is very difficult, and regarding permits and bookings, check that 'National park permits and registered guides/support teams are mandatory'. Be particularly cautious of altitude sickness, extreme cold on summit days, and lack of sleep. Operating periods and entry regulations may change, so it’s advisable to check the linked official and public guides shortly before departure.

This trek features a huge caldera lake and volcanic cone with breathtaking sunrises. The loose volcanic ash slope at the summit means each step can be slippery, leading to considerable energy expenditure; also, check official channels for volcanic alerts and seasonal closures.

Practical Information: Located in Indonesia, with a peak elevation of 3,726m. The best travel times are generally from April to October, and the typical route is 'Sembalun ~ Crater Rim ~ Summit or Segara Anak'. A standard itinerary typically spans about 2 to 4 days but allowing for more time based on weather, fitness, and transport waiting times is recommended. The perceived difficulty is difficult, and regarding permits and bookings, confirm the 'National park reservation and registered guide policy'. Be particularly cautious of volcanic activity, dust and steep gravel, and monsoon closures. Operating periods and entry regulations may change, so it’s good to check the linked official and public guides shortly before departure.

As the highest peak in North Africa, this trail provides a relatively clear route from the Berber village of Imlil up to the refuge and summit. Due to the arid landscape, even if the weather appears mild, the 4,000m altitude and winter snow/ice are separate challenges, and depending on the season, crampons and ice axe skills may be necessary.

Practical Information: Located in Morocco, with a peak elevation of 4,167m. The best travel times are generally from April to June and September to October, and the typical route is 'Imlil ~ Toubkal Refuge ~ Summit'. A standard itinerary typically spans about 2 to 3 days, but it’s best to allow more time based on weather, strength, and waiting times for transport. The perceived difficulty is difficult, and make sure to check regulations regarding the 'mandatory local guide and checkpoint rules'. Be cautious of altitude, winter snow/ice, and significant temperature fluctuations. Operating periods and entry regulations can change, so it’s wise to check the linked official and public guides shortly before departure.

This iconic multi-day track in Australia transports you through glacial lakes, button grass plains, temperate rainforests, and rocky mountains. The elevation isn't high, but the weather can be harsh, and the availability of sleep and meals at the huts isn't guaranteed, so full camping gear and moisture management are essential.

Practical Information: Located in Australia, with a peak elevation of about 1,126m at Pelion Gap. The best travel times are generally from December to April, and the typical route is 'Cradle Valley ~ Lake St. Clair'. A standard itinerary usually lasts around 6 days, but it’s advisable to allow more time based on weather, fitness, and waiting times for transport. The perceived difficulty is moderate to difficult, and check regarding 'peak season reservations and necessary track passes'. Pay special attention to mud, hypothermia, communication blackouts, and self-reliance with camping gear. Operating periods and entry regulations may change, so it’s good to check the linked official and public guides shortly before departure.

This trail runs from the woods of Loch Lomond to Fort William below Ben Nevis, passing through Rannoch Moor and Glencoe. Although there aren't technical high-altitude sections, the need for extended daily walks and exposure to rain makes this a good course to learn pacing and equipment systems for your first long-distance trek.

Practical Information: Located in Scotland, UK, with the highest elevation being around 550m. The best travel times are generally from May to September, and the typical route is 'Milngavie ~ Fort William'. A standard itinerary typically takes about 6 to 8 days, but it’s wise to allow more time based on weather, fitness, and transport waiting times. The perceived difficulty is moderate, and check regarding 'the absence of trail permits, and it’s recommended to reserve accommodations and luggage services'. Be cautious of rain, mud, unknowns, and foot care over long distances. Operating periods and entry regulations may change, so it’s advisable to check the linked official and public guides shortly before departure.