There’s something about walking on holiday that really allows you to get a feel for a place. Whether you enjoy hiking or a simply wander through a city, not only will you keep fit if you’re walking, but you’ll get to stop and “smell the roses” along the way.
Here are some of the best walking destinations for holidays:
The Inca Trail
One of the most famous walks of them all, the Inca Trail isn’t for the faint-hearted but with a bit of training you shouldn’t find it too hard. You’ll need to hire a guide, and be sure to take your camera so you can see the fascinating ruins along the way. Only 500 people are allowed on the trail per day (this includes guides and porters) so book in advance and if you don’t quite get on the list try the hike from Choquequirao.
The Silver Trail
At 160km long, you should be pretty fit before attempting the Silver Trail. The trail is located in Carachic-Batopilas, Copper Canyon in Mexico, and is moderate to-tough. The Spanish originally forged this trail in the 18th century in order to access the silvern mines which are located in the Batopilas Canyon. Along the way, you’ll meet Tarahumara farmers and see caves and cool pools.
Tsitsikamma Trail
You’ll find this trail on the Eastern Cape in South Africa, and it’s not too tough. Hikers can do this one independently, although the huts along the way need to be pre-booked. This is the first official hiking trail in South Africa, and the route goes through fynbos, gorges and the Tsitsikamma mountains. Use the porterage service if you want to lighten your load and have some company, and enjoy nights in full equipped huts after a long day of walking.
Kilimanjaro
Kilimanjaro. The name simply evokes feelings of anticipation in experienced hikers, and if you count yourself as one of them, then this could be the challenge for you. This is tough, especially due to the high altitude and you’ll be camping most of the time. Guides are compulsory on this one, and as the highest peak in Africa, you’ll have some incredible photos to show your friends.
Tour du Mont Blanc
This is a 9-12 day hike and you’ll be wandering for 170km. Several points have access to villages so you can grab supplies, and the trail is dotted with refuges which can give you nice home-cooked meals along the way. Be prepared for some stiff climbs and know that snow is a possibility, however the many options for accommodation means you can go at your own pace.
West Highland Way
Visiting Scotland? If you’ve got a week you can try the West Highland Way which goes from just outside Glasgow to the highest peak in the UK. You’ll cross pastoral lowlands, head past Loch Lomond, and negotiate the gorgeous Rannoch more before you finish beneath Ben Nevis.
Need some good shoes for all this walking? Head to Brantano for affordable and supportive walking shoes.
