Searching for the next big thrill is human. We have a thirst to say “I did this, I beat this.” The great explorers knew this feeling standing on top of giant mountains, knowing they conquered it. Now we look not to conquer but to know how the experience of the adventure changed us. Below are five treks that will nourish your quest for adventure.
One of the best trekking destinations in Morocco is undoubtedly The Toubkal Circuit. Best tackled in the summer, it winds through forests, deep gorges and remote villages. Located 65km south of Marrakesh, Mount Toubkal is the highest point of the High Atlas Mountains at 4,167m. Plan for two weeks to traverse the circuit and an extra few days if you plan to climb Mount Toubkal.
At 17,590 feet, Nepal's Mount Everest Base Camp is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the world. Ancient monasteries, colorful Sherpa villages and Sir Edmund Hillary's Khumjung School are just some of the sites you'll take in. Unsurpassed mountain scenery literally takes your breath away during this two-week adventure.
The Eastern Himalaya is home to one of the most difficult hikes in Bhutan, the infamous Snowman Trek. You must use a tour company, but the payoff is worth it. The small villages, Buddhist monasteries and pristine forests compete with stunning mountain scenery. September and October is prime time to tackle this month-long trip.
Made famous during the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1800s, The Chilkoot Trail is a shorter trek of about 33 miles only requiring 4-5 days. From Dyea, Alaska the historic trail proceeds up and over the scenic mountains through an international border pass into British Columbia.
Peru's Inca Trail is understandably South America's most famous trek, rated by many as one of the top 5 in the world. This 33km Inca trail extends from the Sacred Valley up to Machu Picchu, “The Lost City of the Incas”. Views of high cloud forests and snowy mountains compete with mystical ruins. The 4 day basic trek climbs three high passes and traverses through tunnels and jungles.