Are you an intrepid traveler with itchy feet always on the lookout for the next exciting adventure? If that’s the case, you’ve landed on the right page!

It’s no secret that our amazing planet brims with fantastic travel destinations. After all, every year, millions of hikers indulge in gorgeous scenery while hiking some of the best trails in the world.

So that you too can experience some of the most amazing natural treasures Earth has to offer, I’ve decided to list below the five best hikes in the world. These span from the majestic Corsican mountains and the breathtaking Hawaiian coast to Iceland’s spectacular volcanic lava fields.

Are you ready to embark on a magical journey and take pictures of incredible scenery? I know I ‘am  😉

This scenic trail stretches over 3,500 km (or 2,185 miles) across 14 states from Georgia to Maine. Besides offering spectacular scenery, the hike is particularly popular as it’s hiker-friendly. Indeed, the whole trail is well marked and a number of catering and accommodation options are available to hikers along the way. Some spend months hiking this fantastic trail.

However, if you don’t have an unlimited vacation allowance, you can still tackle parts of the trail to connect with nature and immerse yourself in the unique rugged landscapes dotted with pine-topped mountain ranges and gorgeous lakes and valleys.

Keen to hike sections of this epic trail? Some of the best hikes on the Appalachian trail include Blood Mountain, one of Georgia’s highest peaks, offering incredible panoramic views, and the majestic Smoky Mountains National Park for its dense and lush vegetation, abundant wildlife, and incredible waterfalls. Other notable hikes include Shenandoah Valley and the Presidential Range.

Did somebody say tropical landscape, pristine beaches, and magical views over the Pacific ocean?

Located on the Na Pali coast on Kauai and often touted as one of America’s most beautiful hikes, the Kalalau trail won’t disappoint. Indeed, this 35.4 km (or 22 miles) long hike will take you through luxuriant forested valleys, and along narrow footpaths on volcanic and steep sea cliffs offering spectacular views over winding rivers, unspoiled beaches, and turquoise waters.

Note that this hike requires a good fitness level and can be quite dangerous if the weather conditions are bad. As a result, you should always ensure you have the proper equipment and that you’re aware of weather conditions before starting.

Many hikers hike the Kalalau trail in a day. However, if you want to hike the whole trail and stop along the way to soak in the views, it’ll take up to three days.

The Fimmvörðuháls trail or Fimm hike (much easier to say!) is a nature lover’s dream. Indeed, featuring over 20 mighty cascades, this fantastic hike stretches across 25 km between the Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers located in the south of the island.

While the dramatic scenery will take your breath away, the most startling thing about this trail is the wide diversity of landscapes you’ll encounter. Indeed, from the deep blue ocean, towering glaciers, black volcanic fields, spectacular waterfalls, green canyons, and lush valleys to the grassy tundra, you’ll be able to sample the best landscapes Iceland has to offer on this spectacular day hike.

The best time to hike this amazing trail is between June and September. However, keep in mind that we’re talking about Iceland, and the temperatures, especially at altitude, can be pretty cold, so you should bring adequate equipment with you. You can check the weather here.

Want to embark on an authentic journey to Machu Picchu using the back roads? Hiking the Lares Trek might be just what you need! Located at about 4000 meters above sea level in the Andes in Peru, this spectacular off-the-beaten-track trail stretches over 33 km (or 21 miles), is much less traveled than the famous Inca Trail, and is also a day shorter.

Offering spectacular panoramic views over the Andes mountain range, this once-in-a-lifetime hiking experience will take you through traditional Andean villages, majestic valleys, tropical forests, beautiful lakes, and all the way to the spectacular ruins of Machu Picchu. You’ll find more information about the trail here.

Located on the gorgeous island of Corsica, this spectacular 180 km (112 miles) track is one of the most popular in the world, and for good reason! The awe-inspiring route meanders through the jagged spine of the island’s majestic mountainous center and attracts thousands of hikers every year. During your hike, you’ll be greeted by mountain goats, wild boars, and occasionally snakes. However, they’re harmless, and the dramatic landscape is well worth it!

Indeed, from turquoise waters, scented maquis shrubland, rugged and bare rocks, to isolated high forests, meadows, and towering snow-capped mountains, indulging in the GR20 is truly a unique experience.

Note that during this two-week journey, you’ll be able to resupply in the several mountain huts scattered along the way. You’ll find more information about hiking the GR20 here.