Hiking and trekking are excellent ways to not only get some exercise and get in touch with nature, but also to enjoy some incredible vistas! Of course, the best views come the higher up you go, but those types of treks may not be for everyone. If you aren't into high altitude treks, or steep inclines, there are some incredible low-lying hikes as well. Here are some great hikes around the world with stunning views.
Kyrgyzstan
The trek from the town of Karakol to Altyn Arashan is definitely one to remember - for both the views, and the intensity of the trek. This one isn't for beginners, but if you're a seasoned hiker, we definitely recommend this trek. Starting at 1,438 m in Karakol, it's a steep incline up to the pass at 3,800 m, which is typically accomplished in 1.5 days. Around the 3,000 m mark, trekkers opt to camp for the night before carrying on in the morning. At the top of the pass, the views are breathtaking. Glistening Ala-Kul Lake sits on the south side, while towering mountains are the backdrop of the north side. After the pass, the terrain is basically all downhill or flat, making it a fairly easy descent.
The best part of this trek? There are natural hot springs waiting to ease your aching muscles in the village of Altyn Arashan! For those wanting an easier hike, you can opt to just follow the low-lying river, which is a gorgeous walk. You don't have to take the pass.
Nepal
There are countless hikes and treks for all levels in Nepal. The Himalaya Mountains provide a stunning backdrop and some beautiful trails. One of the popular treks is the Annapurna Circuit, which takes around 2 weeks to complete. Some people do it in a week, but it you like to hike slowly and enjoy the scenery, it can take longer. The great thing about trekking in Nepal is that there are little basic guesthouses all along the way, so you don't need to pack a tent. A sleeping bag is still recommended though. Also, you can hire porters to carry your bags for you if you want! The scenery and the people on the Annapurna Circuit are incredible. If you're interested in an easier walk, there are many available options, such as Panchase Trek or The Royal Trek.
Central America
This region is known for its volcano hiking! Many of the volcanoes in Central America are dormant, while some are still active. Trekking up these cone-shaped mountains for sunrise is a very popular activity. Some of the best volcanoes for trekking in the area are Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica (5,000 feet), Tajumulco in Guatemala (tallest mountain in Central America at 14,000 feet) and Cerro Negro in Nicaragua (2,000 feet, known for volcano boarding).
Looking up at these cone-shaped mammoths may make you feel like a summit would be impossible, but many of the volcanoes are easy climbs. Some trails zig and zag up the slope, while others you stop along the way to set up camp. Hiking these mountains is a definite highlight of a trip to Central America.
Where in the world would you recommend hiking? Have you been on any of these treks?
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