For many travellers, the perfect holiday isn’t spent lying beside a pool. It’s standing on a mountain pass, crossing ancient trails, walking through remote wilderness, and experiencing landscapes that few people ever see.
Hiking holidays have exploded in popularity in recent years, with tourists increasingly seeking experiences rather than attractions. Whether you’re looking for a beginner-friendly multi-day walk or a bucket-list through some of the world’s most spectacular scenery, there are incredible hiking destinations waiting to be explored.
To help inspire your next adventure, we’ve compiled five of the world’s most highly rated hiking experiences, including one right on Australia’s doorstep in New Zealand. We’ve included information about costs, difficulty levels, accommodation options, safety considerations, and what Australian hikers can expect when planning their trip.
Milford Track, New Zealand
When Australians think of hiking holidays, New Zealand is often the first destination that comes to mind. The Milford Track is frequently described as “the finest walk in the world” and offers a spectacular introduction to multi-day hiking.
To find out more, visit the official Milford Track Guide.
Why It’s Special
Located in Fiordland National Park on New Zealand’s South Island, the Milford Track takes hikers through ancient rainforest, alpine passes, dramatic waterfalls, and some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Southern Hemisphere. The trail covers 53.5 kilometres and is one of New Zealand’s famous Great Walks.
Difficulty Level
Intermediate
Suitable for reasonably fit walkers with some hiking experience.
Duration
4 days, 3 nights. Most hikers complete the trail over four days while staying in Department of Conservation huts along the route.
Accommodation
You cannot typically complete the Milford Track as a day walk. Most hikers stay in designated huts, which must be booked well in advance during peak season.
Approximate Costs
Return flights from Sydney to Queenstown: approximately AUD $500 to $1,200
Hut bookings: approximately NZD $100 to $150 per night
Guided tours: AUD $2,000 to $4,500+
Safety Considerations
Fiordland experiences heavy rainfall and rapidly changing weather conditions. Proper waterproof clothing is essential, and hikers should always check weather forecasts before departure.
The Inca Trail, Peru
The Inca Trail is one of the world’s most iconic hikes and remains a dream adventure for many travellers.
You can find more information at Peru Travel’s Inca Trail Site.
Why It’s Special
This ancient trail winds through cloud forests, mountain passes, and remarkable Incan ruins before arriving at the spectacular Machu Picchu. The journey combines history, culture, and adventure unlike anywhere else in the world.
Difficulty Level
Moderate to Difficult
The altitude can make the trek significantly more challenging than many hikers expect.
Duration
4 days, 3 nights
Accommodation
Camping is required along the trail. Licensed tour operators provide tents, meals, guides, and support staff.
Approximate Costs
Return flights from Sydney or Brisbane to Cusco: approximately AUD $2,000 to $3,500
Guided trek packages: AUD $900 to $2,500
Safety Considerations
Altitude sickness is one of the biggest risks. Hikers should allow time to acclimatise in Cusco before beginning the trek. Permits are limited and must be booked months in advance through authorised operators.
Everest Base Camp Trek, Nepal
For many hiking enthusiasts, reaching Everest Base Camp is the ultimate bucket-list adventure.
See Everest Base Camp to find out more.
Why It’s Special
The trek follows the route taken by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay before their historic Everest ascent. Along the way, hikers experience Sherpa culture, Himalayan monasteries, and extraordinary views of the world’s highest mountains.
Difficulty Level
Difficult
No technical climbing is required, but the altitude presents significant challenges.
Duration
Typically 12 to 14 days.
Accommodation
Most hikers stay in traditional teahouses along the route.
Approximate Costs
Return flights from Australia to Kathmandu: AUD $1,500 to $3,000
Guided trek packages: AUD $2,000 to $6,000+
Safety Considerations
Altitude sickness is the primary concern. Proper acclimatisation days are essential, and travellers should never ignore symptoms such as severe headaches, nausea, or dizziness. Weather conditions can change rapidly in the Himalayas.\
Tour du Mont Blanc, France, Italy and Switzerland
This legendary European hiking route circles the Mont Blanc massif through three countries.
You can read more about this hike on Montour.
Why It’s Special
Imagine hiking through picturesque alpine villages, crossing international borders on foot, and enjoying views of Europe’s highest mountain. The Tour du Mont Blanc offers a perfect blend of adventure and comfort.
Difficulty Level
Moderate to Difficult
Duration
Most hikers complete the circuit in 10 to 12 days.
Accommodation
Unlike many remote treks, hikers can stay in mountain refuges, guesthouses, and hotels along the route.
Approximate Costs
Return flights from Australia to Europe: AUD $1,800 to $3,500+
Accommodation and meals: AUD $100 to $300 per day
Safety Considerations
Mountain weather can change quickly. Snow is possible at higher elevations even during summer months, so hikers should carry appropriate clothing and equipment.
Laugavegur Trail, Iceland
For those seeking a truly unique landscape, Iceland’s Laugavegur Trail is difficult to beat.
Iceland’s official tourism website has good information about the trail.
Why It’s Special
This extraordinary trail crosses volcanic deserts, colourful rhyolite mountains, geothermal areas, lava fields, glaciers, and river crossings. Many hikers describe it as feeling like another planet.
Difficulty Level
Moderate to Hard
Duration
3 to 4 days. Most hikers stay in mountain huts along the route.
Accommodation
Mountain huts and designated campsites are available throughout the trek.
Approximate Costs
Return flights from Australia: AUD $2,000 to $4,000+
Hut accommodation: approximately AUD $80 to $150 per night
Safety Considerations
Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable. Hikers should be prepared for strong winds, heavy rain, river crossings, and even snow during summer months.
Essential Hiking Safety Tips
Whether you’re hiking in New Zealand or Nepal, preparation is critical.
Never Hike Alone
Whenever possible, hike with a companion or group. If you must hike solo, ensure someone knows your planned route and expected return time.
Use Tracking and Navigation Apps
Download offline maps and consider using location-sharing apps so family or friends can monitor your progress.
Check the Weather
Mountain weather can change rapidly. Always check forecasts before setting out and be prepared to change your plans if conditions deteriorate.
Carry More Water Than You Think You’ll Need
Dehydration can occur quickly, especially in warm climates or at high altitudes.
Pack Emergency Supplies
Include:
First aid kit
Emergency shelter or thermal blanket
Headlamp
Portable charger
Extra food
Waterproof clothing
Sunscreen and hat
Know Your Limits
Choose hikes that match your fitness and experience level. Attempting a trail beyond your abilities can quickly turn a dream holiday into an emergency situation.
Tell Someone Your Plans
Always leave details of your route, accommodation, and expected return time with a trusted friend or family member.
Don’t Forget Adventure Travel Insurance
Many make the wrong assumption that their standard travel insurance policy automatically covers hiking and adventure activities. However, this isn’t always the case.
Activities such as multi-day hiking, high-altitude trekking, mountain climbing, skiing, snowboarding, water sports, and other adventure pursuits may require additional cover to ensure you’re fully protected.
Medical evacuations from remote hiking locations can be extremely expensive. In some cases, helicopter rescues can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Overseas medical treatment, trip cancellations, and lost equipment can also create significant unexpected expenses.
Before booking your hiking adventure, make sure you understand exactly what activities your policy covers and whether additional adventure activity cover is required.
Head to Go Insurance for a free quote and to explore cover options for your next hiking holiday.
If your planned activities include higher-risk adventure pursuits, check the available policy options and activity cover carefully before you travel.
The world’s best hiking holidays offer far more than exercise. They provide opportunities to experience extraordinary landscapes, challenge yourself physically, and create memories that last a lifetime.
Whether you’re exploring the rainforests of New Zealand’s Milford Track, standing beneath the towering peaks of the Himalayas, walking ancient Incan pathways in Peru, crossing alpine passes in Europe, or trekking through Iceland’s volcanic wilderness, there’s a hiking adventure to suit every level of experience.
The key is choosing a trail that matches your abilities, preparing thoroughly, and ensuring you have appropriate travel insurance before you set off on your journey. With the right planning, your next hiking holiday should become the adventure of a lifetime.