Top travel tips for your next hiking adventure

As slower, low-carbon travel gets more popular, many of us are adding hikes to our travels or planning trips around specific trails or walking excursions. And for good reason: hiking is brilliant for your brain and your health, and your two feet can take you off the beaten track at your own pace. 

Taking a hiking-focused holiday is an inexpensive “cheat code” for meaningful experiences, helping you connect deeply with both a new country and nature at the same time. You often don’t have to go far either — some of the world’s top trails are surprisingly close to major cities and even reachable with public transport.

Choose your hike

The best thing about hiking? Whether it’s a relaxing coastal walk, a challenging mountain trail, or an adventurous multi-day trek, there’s truly something for everyone. Let’s dive into some top hiking destinations to add to your list.

Canada: Vancouver – The Rocky Mountains 

British Columbia is world-renowned for hiking, and Vancouver is a brilliant base from which to get your fix of iconic Canadian landscapes. Think: hikes and camping trips through landscapes filled with tall green pine forests, dramatic mountains, crystal-clear rivers, and turquoise blue lakes.  

Costa Rica: Monteverde – Cloud Forest Reserve 

Located just a few hours from Heredia or Playa Tamarindo, Costa Rica’s Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a must for avid hikers. Join a local guide as they’ll point out all the out-of-this-world wildlife, like bright toucans, chattering monkeys, strange creepy crawlers, and even sloths. Some routes lead to hidden waterfalls and swimming spots in the heart of the jungle — bliss. 

France: Nice – Coastal Trails of Cap d’Antibes

Just a short train or bus ride from Nice, the Cap d’Antibes coastal trail offers a stunning seaside hike without straying far from the city. The coastal pathway hugs the rocky shoreline, winding past hidden coves and cliffs along the way. It’s a relatively easy walk, but the Mediterranean views are next-level, especially at sunset. Bring a swimsuit if you feel like jumping into the water along the way.

South Korea: Seoul – Bukhansan National Park 

The towering granite mountains, lush vegetation, and abundant nature of Bukhansan National Park make it one of South Korea’s most beloved hiking destinations. Trails ranging from easy to advanced keep every hiker inspired, and the vibrant orange leaves in fall (September – November) make for incredible photos. The subway and buses connect the park with central Seoul, making day and weekend trips easy. 

Malta: Dingli – Cliffs and ocean panoramas 

Though famous for underwater discoveries, Malta’s rugged Mediterranean island scenery is also an adventure on land. Catch the bus from St. Julian’s to Dingli to enjoy long or short hiking routes along a series of staggeringly beautiful cliffs boasting sparkling sea views for miles.  

Spain: Barcelona – Montserrat Mountains

An hour outside Barcelona, the dramatic Montserrat mountain range is full of striking scenery and panoramic hiking trails. The craggy, otherworldly rock formations surround a famous monastery perched high in the hills. Hike well-marked trails with sweeping views over Catalonia, and stop at quiet chapels, hidden caves, and natural rock outcroppings along the way.

South Africa: Cape Town – Table Mountain 

For the best 360-degree vistas over Cape Town and the beautiful South African coastline, the legendary Table Mountain can’t be beaten. Get the cable car up from the city and hike around the top, or tackle the ascent and descent on two feet — you’ll get up close to nature as you climb, and the views are so much more rewarding when you’ve had to sweat a little to reach them.  

Know before you go

Ready to explore some of the world’s most beautiful places on foot? We’ve got you. Here are some of our top tips to consider before lacing up your boots. 

What to pack 

For any hike, there are some essentials: high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses or a cap, a basic first-aid kit, a full phone battery, and enough water and snacks to stay hydrated and fueled. Be ready for bad weather too — always pack a warm layer or something waterproof. Stick it all in a backpack, too. It’s kinder on your back and shoulders than a cross-body bag. 

Look after your feet 

Footwear can make or break a hike. Sneakers with grippy soles can prevent slips and injury (nothing ruins a trip like a hospital visit), or sturdy hiking boots with waterproofing or breathable fabric may be needed for longer trips. Never wear brand-new shoes out on the trail — those new-shoe blisters aren’t worth it.  

Know your route 

Getting lost is a mood killer. Stay safe and ensure you don’t miss a single viewpoint by planning your route in advance and letting someone know your plans. Pick an established trail, make sure you’re fit enough and prepared for the distance and terrain, and have a map. Rural mobile signal isn’t always reliable, so watch for trail signs and know what your destination’s trail markers look like before setting off. 

Google the wildlife 

Find out what wildlife you might meet on the trail — you may need to take precautions. Are there biting insects in the region? Pack bug spray. Is your route in bear country? In parts of Canada and North America, you should carry bear spray and talk loudly while walking to avoid surprising anything large in the woods. In Australia? Find out which snakes and spiders you should stay well away from (if in doubt, all of them).  

Check your friend’s packs 

These experiences can be best shared with friends — conversation IRL without the distraction of screens. But if you get into trouble, you’ll want enough resources for everyone, so discuss what everyone plans to bring. Some items can be shared to keep your bags light — only one person needs to pack sunscreen or hand sanitizer for the group.

Know a few hiking phrases in the local language

While hiking in a foreign country, it's a good idea to know a few phrases in the local language just in case you meet someone on the trail or need to ask for directions. Brush up on some key hiking vocabulary and phrases in case you want to strike up a conversation with fellow hikers on the path.

Leave no trace

One of the best things about hiking is experiencing wild places, and it’s all of our responsibilities to keep them that way. Follow "Leave No Trace" principles by staying on marked trails, taking all your rubbish with you (even biodegradable items like fruit peels), and not disturbing plants, animals, or cultural landmarks. 

Hiking is one of the most rewarding ways to explore the world, so lace up your boots and see where the trail takes you.