Some of the most common walking and hiking injuries are easily preventable. Take some time before embarking on your trek to make sure you are thoroughly prepared. Trekking abroad is the perfect opportunity to view some of the spectacular scenery that the world has to offer in a unique way. Take the opportunity to explore on foot and experience the joys of nature in an unforgettable way. Due to unpredictable weather conditions in mountainous regions and other risks, it is important to make sure that you have sufficient trekking insurance to cover you. For the treks below, you will need to take out our ‘trekking peaks’ policy. This will cover medical, repatriation, search and rescue, and other costs that could otherwise be financially damaging.
1. The Haute Route, France (Chamonix) – Switzerland (Zermatt)
On this spectacular 180km, 12 day summer hike you will traverse ten out of twelve of the highest peaks in the Alps, regularly crossing high passes; the highest is at 2987m. This trek demands fitness as every section involves significant ascents but you will also meander through alpine valleys and picturesque villages. Your efforts will be worthwhile upon arriving in Zermatt where you will be greeted with a magnificent view of the Matterhorn, the second highest mountain in Europe at 4,478m.
2. The Inca Trail, Peru
By far the most famous trek in South America, this route combines mountain scenery, Inca ruins and tropical jungle all in just 26 miles. The trail climbs from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu where views of snow-tipped mountains are visible as altitudes of 4200m are reached. It is best to hike this 4 day trail in the months of April till October since the weather is drier.
3. Everest Base Camp, Nepal
This is a classic Himalayan trek is a humbling experience as you trek towards the world’s highest mountain at 8,848m while being surrounded by other giants. You will reach a height of 5,545m and pass spectacular scenery as you are led by the Sherpa people on this typically 3-week adventure.
4. Routeburn Track, New Zealand
This three day 40 mile hike passes through two national parks, Fiordland and Mount Aspiring, in New Zealand’s South Island. The variety of landscape is phenomenal; from crystal clear lakes to subalpine valleys to sheer rock faces, there is something for everyone but secure a place early as only limited numbers are allowed on the track at one time.
5. K2, Pakistan
This is one of the greatest treks with unbeatable scenery and proximity to the world’s highest mountains; K2 stands second to Evert at 8,611m. This 15 day trek begins following icy rivers before approaching the pyramidal surrounding mountains where you will reach an altitude of 4,700m.
6. West Highland Way, Scotland
This trek will lead you into the heart of Scotland’s most rugged landscape, past rocky peaks and rolling valleys of Glen Coe. Over the 96 miles from Milngavie to Fort William, hikers will skirt along Ben Nevis and dip in and out of villages with opportunities to try local haggis and tour the loch.
7. Overland Track, Australia
Take in the prehistoric landscape of Tasmania with the 80km six-day trek which passes pristine lakes, dense forest and craggy mountains. Side routes to waterfalls and more summits can be taken to increase the length of this famous bush walk.
8. Indian Himilayas, India
The less frequented side of the world’s greatest mountain range offers something for the more hardcore of hikers who can embark on a 24 day epic trek from Spiti to Ladakh. The high altitude terrain can be bleak and isolated, punctuated by few settlements, so make sure you’re up for the challenge!
9. GR20, France
Considered to be one of the most beautiful trails in Europe, this 15-day hike traverses Corsica diagonally from north to south, embracing a diversity of landscape that is legendary. You will pass glacial lakes, snow-capped peaks, rolling valleys and forests over the course of 180km.
10. Israel National Trail, Israel
If you have a love of ancient and contemporary history then this trail is the one for you; the sublime beauty and wilderness of the Middle East can be trekked for 58-620 miles but is also split into 12 smaller sections, each of which is a worthwhile shorter trip.
Friction or rubbing of the skin is often the cause of blisters, especially over long distances. You can prevent them by choosing the correct shoes and socks (made of moisture-wicking synthetic blends), using lubricants and being aware of ‘hot spots’ when they occur.