Looking to explore the world one trail at a time? From volcano views in New Zealand to glacier lakes in Switzerland, we’ve curated a list of 10 must-do hiking trails around the world. Whether you’re a casual walker or a seasoned trekker, these hikes come with expert tips to help you make the most of each adventure.

Let’s lace up those boots and hit the trail!

1. Pouakai Tarn Trail, New Zealand

Location: Mount Egmont National Park, North Island

Hike through lush bushland to discover stunning mirror-like views of Mount Taranaki reflected in Pouakai Tarn. This trail is relatively flat and takes about two hours one way, with a comfortable boardwalk most of the way. For the full experience, camp overnight or book a hut stay.

EmiratesAmazing.com Tip: Visit during golden hour for the best reflection shots. Don’t miss the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

2. Ulsanbawi Rock Trail, South Korea

Location: Seoraksan National Park

A five-mile roundtrip with over 1,000 steps leading to breathtaking panoramic views of the valleys and rivers below. Plan for a 3-hour round hike. This trail offers a rewarding challenge with one of the best summit views in Korea.

EmiratesAmazing.com Tip: Start early to avoid crowds. Book a Seoraksan guided tour to include nearby highlights like Naksansa Temple.

3. Ellbachseeblick Trail, Germany

Location: Black Forest (Schwarzwald)

Named one of Germany’s top hiking trails, this 10 km route takes you through moorlands, meadows, and dense forest, culminating in a scenic overlook of the Black Forest valley.

EmiratesAmazing.com Tip: Check the seasonal wildflower bloom calendar before you go. Also, explore our Black Forest hiking tours.

4. Sea of Mist Viewpoints, Northern Thailand

Location: Chiang Mai region

Wake up above the clouds with a hike to Doi Ang Khang or Phu Chi Fa. The Sea of Mist is a magical weather phenomenon that occurs at sunrise during winter (December–February).

EmiratesAmazing.com Tip: Arrive before 5:30 AM. Consider an overnight stay nearby to hike in time for sunrise.

5. Tre Cime di Lavaredo Loop, Italy

Location: Dolomites, Cadini di Misurina

Avoid the €45 road toll by parking at Lago d’Antorno and hiking to Rifugio Auronzo. This 10-mile loop offers jaw-dropping alpine views. Take the extra detour to the Cadini Viewpoint—worth every step.

EmiratesAmazing.com Tip: Go anti-clockwise for optimal photo ops. Explore Dolomites tours from Venice.

6. Tour du Mont Blanc, Alps

Location: France, Switzerland, and Italy

This 11-day, 170 km trek with 10,000 meters of elevation gain is a bucket-list experience. Book huts in advance and pack light. Most huts offer meals and packed lunches.

EmiratesAmazing.com Tip: Plan your route via the official TMB website or let EmiratesAmazing.com help with guided bookings.

7. South West Coast Path, England

Location: Jurassic Coast, UK

The section between Weymouth and Bournemouth offers two days of stunning seaside hiking, passing the famous Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove. It’s hilly but manageable for most hikers.

EmiratesAmazing.com Tip: Pack light, but don’t forget waterproofs. There are plenty of coastal pubs to refuel along the way. Explore our Jurassic Coast walking tours.

8. Cinque Terre Coastal Trail, Italy

Location: Ligurian Coast

Hike between the five cliffside villages of Cinque Terre for stunning Mediterranean views. The trail from Monterosso to Vernazza is particularly scenic at golden hour.

EmiratesAmazing.com Tip: Start from Monterosso and end at Vernazza to time your arrival with sunset. Check out Cinque Terre hiking and wine tours.

9. Gerenpass Glacier Hike, Switzerland

Location: Ticino Alps

This hidden gem in Val Bedretto leads you past Capanna Piansecco and up to Gerenpass with a stunning iceberg-filled lake. The route becomes challenging closer to the summit, marked by blue signs.

EmiratesAmazing.com Tip: Wear sturdy boots and download offline maps. Explore our Alpine glacier hikes.

10. Valbona to Theth, Albania

Location: Albanian Alps

Start from Shkodër, take a scenic ferry across Komani Lake, and then hike from Valbona to Theth. The trail is demanding (about 12 hours) but incredibly rewarding with surreal mountain views.

EmiratesAmazing.com Tip: Start the hike at sunrise for magical lighting and book a traditional guesthouse in Theth for an authentic experience. See our Albania hiking adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best hiking trail in the world?
While it’s subjective, the Tour du Mont Blanc and Perito Moreno Glacier Trail in Argentina are often top-rated.

Which country offers the best hiking?
Nepal, New Zealand, Peru, and Switzerland are widely regarded as premier hiking destinations.

Is the Camino de Santiago worth it?
Yes. It’s one of the most famous hikes globally, rich in cultural and spiritual significance. Check our Camino de Santiago experiences.

What gear should I bring for international hikes?
At a minimum: proper hiking boots, layered clothing, refillable water bottles, trail snacks, maps (or offline apps), and weatherproof outerwear.

Ready to explore the world one step at a time? Browse our hiking tours and nature getaways and let your next adventure begin with EmiratesAmazing.com.