Boots Are Made For Walking
Walking holidays are one of the purest and most exciting ways to travel and explore the world, and there are some fantastic walks in every corner of the world just waiting to be tackled. Some are more difficult than others, but they are similar in that they have some of the most incredible sights known to mankind available on the walks. Below is a list of the top walks on each continent. Why not take on the challenge of visiting each walk? You won’t be disappointed!
Asia
One of the most instantly recognisable man-made structures, The Great Wall of China is visited by millions of tourists every year, and is an extremely popular destination for a walking holiday. Stretching out over 21,000km from Shanhaiguan in the east, to Lop Lake in the west, and even touches upon Inner Mongolia, there is something for all walkers, from nine day adventure hikes to leisurely strolls to admire the views over China’s beautiful and vast countryside.
Africa
A superb walking destination is Tsavo in Kenya. Most people dream of an African safari, and Tsavo caters for these dreams with treks across the wilderness, with plenty of chances to witness some of the most beautiful creatures on Earth, including lions, tigers and elephants. The Great Walk in Tsavo is a walking safari that covers 153km over 11 days, including the Tsavo and Galana rivers and the East and West National Parks. The walking is considered easy, but the African heat can take its toll. But when you rest up and catch the sight of an African sunset from your camp, it’ll all be worth it.
North America
There is some fantastic mountain terrain across North America, and The Rockies in Canada are no exception. There are a range of options depending on how wild you want your experience to be! The peaks of Alaska are for people who want to explore the highest and wildest parts of the Rockies, but you don’t have to climb a mountain to enjoy some superb walking trails with the rewards of stunning lake and mountain scenery across Provincial and National Parks.
South America
Whether you’re an experienced explorer or a first-time backpacker, the Inca Trail is one of the most popular treks in Peru and South America. The trail starts from Chillca, and follows over Machu Picchu, covering between 27-35 miles of natural beauty including high-mountain deserts, jungles and cloud forests. There are heights of nearly 14,000 feet on the trail, so it is not for vertigo sufferers or people who struggle with their breathing. It can be extremely tough, but one of the most rewarding experiences for walkers.
Antarctica
The Antarctic has always been seen as a challenge for man to overcome, and it is extremely intimidating when you take a look at the terrain that you would be trekking across. But there are plenty of expeditions every year that take groups across the Antarctic Circle, stopping in some of the most incredible places in the world like Port Lockroy, Petermann Island, Neko Harbour and Paradise Bay. A lot of the deepest parts of the Antarctic are what the term ‘weather permitting’ was made for, but if you get the chance to see them, you will be at the envy of everyone, for they truly are a sight to behold.
Europe
Crete is an ancient world of myths and legends, gods and monsters. It is also home to the Samaria Gorge, which is the longest gorge in Europe. Plenty of hikers come to enjoy the gorge every year and take on the 18km walk that takes you from Xyloskalo to the sea at Agia Roumeli. Here you will find a stunning beach to relax your feet and enjoy the sunshine before heading off on your travels. You don’t have to be Zeus to tackle the walk, but it is something pretty special to do that you won’t forget in a hurry. Try out places like Corsica , Sardinia or Sicily for some excellent european walking trails.
Australia
The Great Ocean Walk sits on the West Coast of Victoria, and is within reach of Adelaide and Melbourne. Many backpackers and travellers head down the Great Ocean Road every year, and by car, but the walk is just as incredible.
The walk stretches over 104km from Apollo Bay to one of the greatest sights in Australia, the 12 Apostles. The walk takes you through National Parks and beaches, all the time with an ocean view. It is easy to navigate away from the walk and explore the surrounding areas. You will not be disappointed, as the area in one of the most spectacular in Australia, with every view a postcard.
Daley is a real walking enthusiast with an ambition to discover all of the hidden gems of the walking world. He particularly enjoys country side rambles in the UK. He works alongside http://www.worldwalks.com/