10 world famous treks ranked by difficulty level
by The Adventure People on 11th December 2018
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Stok Kangri
Max altitude: 6153m The highest mountain in the Ladakh region of Northern India is a challenging but hugely rewarding trek that most people can attempt. The altitude is high but the terrain makes it achievable, especially because it is snow free for most of the summer. If you’ve never trekked before, you may want to start with something with a lower altitude, but if you’re looking for a great alternative to the Everest Base Camp trek, this is it!Everest Base Camp
Max altitude: 5380m Get up and close to the highest mountain in the world, Mount Everest, on this famous trek that comes with major bragging rights. Although the altitude can be challenging, most people with relative fitness can complete this trek, just be sure to acclimatise and take your time with it. Most of our tours are at least 15 days, which we recommend as anything less can trigger altitude sickness. This probably shouldn’t be your first ever trek, but once achieved, it’s sure to be a memory that lasts a lifetime!
Kilimanjaro
Max altitude: 5895m The variety in nature is definitely one of the biggest appeals of this famous trek. You will start on the savannah in Tanzania where you can spot some of the most incredible wildlife in the world. Then trek through forests and glaciers to the top. There are several different routes to choose from, from the more challenging Rongai route, to the most famous Machame route or the newest Northern Circuit, whichever you choose will offer a unique experience. What varies most between them is the distance covered in a day. If you’re relatively new to trekking we recommend choosing a longer one (8-9 days) as you’re more likely to acclimatise better.
Mont Blanc
Max altitude: 4810m Prepare to have your jaw drop at every corner on this spectacular Alpine trek to the top of France. the majesty of Western Europe’s highest peak has had a massive appeal to climbers for centuries. Our tour to Mont Blanc is attempted over three days, to give you the very best chance of reaching the summit. During the expedition, the rewarding peak of Tête Blanche will also usually be climbed, teaching snow and ice techniques, building your confidence and helping with acclimatisation.
Salkantay Trek
Max altitude: 4600m The most popular alternative to the Inca Trail to get to Machu Picchu, and that’s slightly more challenging. The Salkantay trek is longer and higher in altitude to the Inca Trail. But it is also less crowded and you’ll see some stunning scenery along the way, like glacier lakes and of course the Salkantay mountain that will be your backdrop en route. This trek is perfect for anyone that’s either already completed the Inca Trail, or someone who’d like slightly more of a challenge but still end up at Machu Picchu.Inca trail
Max altitude: 4215m One of the most famous treks in the world that’s on many people’s bucket list, the Inca Trail is famous for a reason! A beautiful and rewarding way to get to Machu Picchu, over 4-7 days, camping along the way. What makes it slightly challenging is the high altitude of even the starting point of Cusco. Take a couple days to acclimatise and you should be fine. Make sure to book this popular route as far in advance as you can, as there are only 500 permits available every day, around 300 of which are used for porters and guides. But this truly is the perfect starting trek for any new adventurer!
Mount Fuji
Max altitude: 3776m Watching the sunrise over the Japanese Alps is sure to be a memory for life. Take in Japan from above the clouds on this trek that was previously considered sacred so only pilgrims and priests were allowed to climb it. What makes it slightly challenging is the uneven volcanic terrain but the altitude isn’t too high if you’re worried about altitude sickness, this could be a good option. (Although it can technically hit you at any height above 3000m).
Torres del Paine
Max altitude: 1200m One of the most beautiful places in the world, Patagonia, and Torres del Paine, in particular, offers a trek unlike any other. This national park offers treks for all levels of fitness and experience. One of the more famous is the W trek, where you’ll walk past volcanic vistas, glaciers and rolling plains. The altitude is not very high, you will not experience altitude sickness, so this is the perfect trek for any nature lover (and photographers)!The Lost City Trek
Max altitude: 1200m Visit the Lost City of Teyuna in Colombia that dates back even further than Machu Picchu. This is not your average trek, you will go through jungles, swim in rivers and sleep in hammocks before climbing the 1200 steps to reach the Lost City. This trek certainly offers something out of the ordinary and is achievable by people of all fitness levels. Toby at The Adventure People even did this trek in flip flops! (Though that is not to be recommended).
