Other Global Pathways: More Signature Hikes of the World
Estimated Reading Time: 8 minutes Last updated on 8th December 2024
Beyond Europe and North America lies a world of extraordinary trails that reflect humanity’s age-old desire to explore on foot. From the ancient pilgrimage routes of Japan’s Kumano Kodo to the rugged tracks of New Zealand’s Te Araroa, these paths represent some of the world’s most remarkable hiking experiences. Each trail offers unique insights into local cultures, histories, and landscapes: the volcanic terrain of Jeju Island, the pristine wilderness of Tasmania, the biodiversity of Costa Rica, and the cultural heritage of South Africa’s Amatola Mountains. These routes not only challenge hikers physically but also provide profound connections to the lands and communities they traverse.
The Amatola Trail is a challenging hiking trail in South Africa that offers two options: a 6-day, 100km trail with 4900m of climbing, or a 2-day, 42km Zingcuka Loop with 2000m of climbing. Both trails offer stunning views of the Amatola Mountains, enchanting forests and refreshing swimming holes. Hikers can expect to hike approximately 20km+ and up to 10 hours a day. The trails are open from September to May each year. Wooden overnight huts equipped with bunk beds, mattresses and hot showers are provided along the trails.
The El Camino de Costa Rica is a captivating 280 km (170 miles) hiking trail connecting the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific Ocean. Spanning diverse landscapes, including lush rainforests, mountainous regions and rural communities, this trail offers a unique opportunity for hikers to immerse themselves in Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. With 17 stages of varying difficulty and terrain, the trail covers significant elevation changes (around 19,000 feet) and diverse ecosystems, ranging from tropical lowlands to cooler mountain areas with temperatures between 13°C (55°F) and 29°C (85°F). The journey passes through over 100 rural communities, allowing hikers to engage with local cultures, cuisines and traditions. Natural attractions along the trail include breathtaking views of volcanoes, coffee plantations and abundant wildlife, including opportunities for birdwatching. Suitable for both novice and experienced hikers, the full trek takes approximately 16 to 18 days, but shorter guided tours focusing on specific trail segments are available. El Camino de Costa Rica offers an immersive adventure that promotes ecotourism and supports local communities in less-visited areas of this world-renowned biodiverse nation.
The Jeju Olle Trail, founded in 2007, is a 437km hiking trail on Jeju Island, South Korea, consisting of 21 main routes, 6 sub-routes and a short airport connector. The trail was inspired by the Camino de Santiago in Spain and follows the island’s coastline through diverse landscapes including volcanic cones, beaches, fishing villages, indigenous forests, urban centres and outlying islands. Hikers can experience local culture, interact with residents and observe traditional practices like haenyeo (women divers), a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The trail comprises easy to high difficulty levels with an average route length of 16 kilometres and the best hiking months being April, May, September and October. Hikers can collect stamps at designated stations along the routes to earn a Certificate of Completion. The trail’s philosophy encourages slowing down and taking a break from everyday life, appealing to South Korean workers with long working hours.
The Kumano Kodo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on Japan’s Kii Peninsula since 2004, consists of several interconnected ancient pilgrimage trails spanning approximately 190 miles (370 km). This network connects three grand shrines, known collectively as the Kumano Sanzan and has been in use for over a millennium. Originating from a response to the Kii Rebellion around 816 CE, these trails offer hikers a unique blend of spiritual history, cultural immersion and natural beauty through landscapes ranging from mountains to forests, villages and coastal areas. With various routes including Nakahechi, Kohechi, Ohechi and Iseji, the Kumano Kodo caters to hikers of all abilities, making it a profound journey through Japan’s sacred lands.
The Larapinta Trail, situated in Central Australia and the West MacDonnell Ranges, is a renowned 223 km (139 mile) long-distance hiking trail offering unique experiences of rugged landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Divided into 12 sections with designated campsites and varying levels of difficulty, it features significant elevation changes, reaching altitudes up to 1,200 metres (3,937 feet), an overall ascent of over 8,000 metres (26,247 feet). Starting at Alice Springs Telegraph Station, hikers traverse Arrente Country and encounter wildlife, breathtaking views and rich Aboriginal history. Sections range from moderate to difficult; highlights include Simpsons Gap, Ormiston Gorge and Ellery Creek Big Hole. Hikers should prepare for rocky and hilly terrain with limited shade and vegetation. April to August is recommended due to milder temperatures; book campsites in advance.
La Ruta de los Parques de la Patagonia
The Route of the Parks of Patagonia (La Ruta de los Parques de la Patagonia) is a scenic journey extending over 2,800 km from Puerto Montt to Cape Horn in southern Chile. This route traverses 17 national parks covering 11.8 million hectares of protected land and nearby communities. Rich in biodiversity, it encompasses various ecosystems including temperate rainforests, sub-Antarctic forests, wetlands, ice fields and the world’s largest system of fjords. Notable species like the huemul deer and huillín otter inhabit these lands, which hold the second-highest carbon storage in South America after the Amazon. Visitors can engage in various activities such as trekking, wildlife observation, kayaking, mountain climbing and glacier hiking to explore pristine landscapes while respecting local traditions and promoting sustainable economic development through ecotourism. This conservation project protects unique ecosystems and offers opportunities to experience some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world.
The Overland Track is a renowned hiking trail located in Tasmania, Australia. Known for its challenging yet rewarding experience, the trail takes hikers through the heart of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hikers are encouraged to prepare physically with cardio and strength training, and practice hiking with a weighted backpack. Essential gear includes good hiking boots and appropriate clothing for the often unpredictable Tasmanian weather.
The Te Araroa Trail is a 3,000 km (1,864 miles) long-distance hiking trail in New Zealand that stretches from Cape Reinga in the North Island to Stirling Point, Bluff in the South Island. The trail takes approximately 4 to 6 months to complete and offers diverse landscapes, including lush Far North regions, Kauri forests, volcanic landscapes, beaches, river journeys, urban and rural environments. The name “Te Araroa” means ‘The Long Pathway’ in Māori. In 2024, the Te Araroa Trust introduced a new Trail Pass to support trail maintenance and enhance walker experiences. The trail is flexible and can be completed entirely or as smaller sections over time. It covers various terrains, from tropical to mountainous, and passes through local communities while focusing on minimizing environmental impacts and enhancing wellbeing for both walkers and locals. Te Araroa Trail is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences.
The Three Capes Track, located in Tasmania, Australia, is a captivating hiking trail that offers magnificent views of the Tasman Sea and the cliffs of the Tasman Peninsula. With a length of approximately 48 kilometres (30 miles) one way and typically completed in 3 to 4 days, this moderate-level trail boasts a diverse range of environments, including coastal heathlands, forests and unique geological formations. Key highlights along the trail include Cape Raoul, which offers spectacular views of the cliffs and ocean and various wildlife such as seabirds and native plants. The trail begins at the historic Port Arthur Site and concludes at Cape Pillar, where hikers can enjoy panoramic coastal views. Designated campsites with basic amenities are available along the route, but hikers must book in advance due to high demand. The best time to hike is from late spring to early autumn (November to April) when weather conditions are more stable. A pass is required for entry into Tasmanian national parks and can be purchased online or at park entrances.
A world-renowned multi-day hike, located within New Zealand’s Tongariro National Park, offers breathtaking volcanic landscapes and alpine scenery. Spanning approximately 43 kilometres (27 miles) in a loop, this challenging trail attracts numerous hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. With a moderate to challenging difficulty level, the terrain includes well-maintained paths, rugged sections and diverse ecosystems, such as volcanic landscapes. Accessed from Mangatepopo Road car park, highlights include Mount Ngauruhoe (or ‘Mount Doom’), Emerald Lakes and Red Crater for panoramic views. Camping facilities are available at Oturere Hut and Waihohonu Hut, requiring advance booking. Ideally hiked from late spring to early autumn (November to April), a backcountry hut pass is necessary for overnight stays along the trail. This unforgettable experience showcases New Zealand’s natural beauty and cultural significance.
