For your trekking projects, here is a selection of 7 exceptional treks to do once in a lifetime as a long-distance walker! They are either highly challenging, set in a majestic landscape, or both — but all share that spirit of escape and adventure. The exceptional treks we have chosen, admittedly with a degree of subjectivity, span every continent and the most spectacular mountain ranges on the planet. That's the minimum standard to earn a place among these 7 exceptional treks — and we invite you to explore them and perhaps start planning!
7 exceptional treks across every continent
The Continental Divide Trail
This truly extraordinary route crosses the United States from Mexico to Canada, following the Rockies — the backbone of America — for 5,000 km.
The Continental Divide Trail follows exactly the continental divide between the Atlantic and the Pacific. Of course, completing the entire route is only possible with considerable time (around 6 months) and serious endurance! The trail remains very demanding, with many sections offering very little waymarking. It is of course possible to tackle individual segments: the most popular being those in Colorado or Montana.
One thing is guaranteed: a complete change of scenery and pure adventure!
The Inca Trail
The Inca Trail is the most famous and popular hiking route and trek in Peru — and indeed across the whole of South America. Be warned though: it's an extraordinary hike and, in places, a demanding one. That said, it's relatively short, with the full route taking just 3 or 4 days.
The beauty of the landscapes will take your breath away, and the archaeological richness is unmissable, with Inca ruins lining the entire route. And as a crowning finale — Machu Picchu!
This route can no longer be done independently — it must be completed with an authorised guide, and bookings are heavily in demand (roughly 6 months in advance).
The High Atlas in Morocco
The High Atlas treks in Morocco are particularly well suited to beginners, thanks to the many flexible and accessible routes on offer. Even though routes are generally waymarked, hiring a guide is recommended and comes at little cost.
The High Atlas offers breathtaking landscapes and a real change of scenery not far from France. Available treks (generally from May to October) include the Timenkar plateau (2 days), the ascent of Mount Tougroudadane (3,320 m) over 3 days, or the ascent of Mount Toubkal over 8 days, via Tachdirt, Imlil and the Tazaghart refuge (for the most experienced).
These treks are also easy to combine with more relaxed stays in Marrakech or along the Moroccan coast.
Kilimanjaro
The roof of Africa peaks at 5,892 m, with a starting altitude of 1,800 m — making this a trek reserved for seasoned athletes. But it's well worth the effort: the breathtaking panorama from the summit is a true reward and an unforgettable memory for those who have had the privilege of climbing Kilimanjaro.
There are five main routes to the summit:
- the Marangu Route (the easiest and most frequented)
- the Machame Route (slightly more challenging, but more scenic)
- the Umbwe Route (less frequented and quite wild)
- the Mweka Route
- the Shira Plateau Route.
A guide and porters are two essentials for your Kilimanjaro trek, where supervision is mandatory. Note also that entry to the National Park is subject to a fee.
The summer months of July, August and September are very busy and can feel somewhat overcrowded. January and February, on the other hand, are more advisable thanks to drier conditions and far fewer visitors. Avoid the wet months, which are unpleasant and where certain sections become difficult to navigate.
The Tour du Mont White
The Tour du Mont-White is arguably the most famous long-distance hiking circuit in Europe. Covering approximately 190 km with over 10,000 metres of elevation gain, it circumnavigates the roof of Europe. This trek offers spectacular views of the Alps, summits, glaciers, moraines and pastures.
The trek route passes through three countries (France, Switzerland, Italy) and eight valleys: the Arve valley (or Chamonix valley), Val Montjoie, the Glaciers valley, Val Veny, the Italian and Swiss Val Ferret, Val d'Arpette and the Trient valley in Switzerland.
There are, however, variants on this route for less experienced or less adventurous walkers.
This trek requires good physical fitness, even though it doesn't reach very high altitudes (highest points at 2,650 m). Allow around ten days to complete it. The ideal period runs from June to October, but you must stay vigilant about weather conditions, which can change very rapidly.
The Annapurna Circuit
The Annapurna massif is located in Nepal and peaks at over 8,000 m. The circuit trek around it is hugely popular and renowned in the trekking world. You'll be immersed in an extraordinary diversity of landscapes: tropical valleys, desert scenery, waterfalls, mountains — everything that makes a walker's heart sing!
The route is generally covered from Besisahar to Muktinath in around twelve days. This trek presents no insurmountable technical difficulties, but still demands excellent physical fitness — particularly for the crossing of the Thorong La pass at 5,416 m, though most of the ascents are very gradual. A major advantage of this trek is the abundance of hotels, bivouacs, restaurants and guesthouses along the entire route, making it straightforward to organise with a wide choice of accommodation.
Given the altitude, watch out for altitude sickness — acclimatise gradually by spending time at altitude progressively, and make sure you're in good shape and stay careful!
The Lycian Way in Turkey
Here is an original trek that's very accessible and combines sport with relaxation. The Lycian Way hugs the coastline of Turkey for just over 500 km, from Fethiye to Antalya. You can complete it in its entirety (a month or more) or tackle just a section of your choice.
You'll discover stunning beaches alongside mountains, canyons, caves and numerous archaeological sites — all with the Mediterranean as your backdrop!
There is an excellent book describing this route (The Lycian Way by Kate Clow) which is essential reading, as the trail markings can be somewhat intermittent.
It is worth noting that, for safety reasons, it is strongly recommended not to attempt this route alone: certain technical sections carry a real risk of falls.
The route nonetheless offers a wealth of accommodation options, making it more manageable and viable without a tent or heavy gear.
Whatever your choice from these 7 exceptional treks, you'll experience something truly unique — both physically and emotionally. These magnificent settings each offer a one-of-a-kind backdrop for the adventure-hungry walker, a sanctuary to escape at your own pace!
