Backpacking Adventures: Destinations to Explore
Backpacking presents an exciting, budget-friendly way to travel, allowing you to connect with vibrant local communities and immerse yourself in diverse cultures. Whether you prefer warm or cold climates, islands or mountaintops, solo journeys or group adventures, this guide highlights some of the best backpacking destinations and experiences to include in your travel plans.
Live the Legend at Tiger Leaping Gorge, China
This hike is ideal for those starting out or seeking a more relaxed adventure. In Tiger Leaping Gorge, you’ll walk along the famous Jinsha River for approximately 10 miles. This breathtaking trail, one of the deepest river canyons globally, features a fascinating story from Chinese folklore: a tiger escaping a hunter by leaping across the 30-meter wide river.
Shared Accommodation Experiences
The hostel life is a hallmark of long-haul backpacking trips. Staying in a dormitory often feels like an initiation rite, filled with unforgettable moments and quirky stories, such as the infamous encounter with a drunken traveler bringing a stray cat into the dormitory.
Appalachian Trail, USA
Winding through Virginia, the Appalachian Trail showcases some of the most beautiful autumn colors imaginable. This impressive trail can take between five to seven months to complete, leading through stunning landscapes that include Civil War battlefields, distinctive rock formations, and quaint mountain towns.
Everest Base Camp, Nepal
For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking to Everest Base Camp offers a thrilling experience without the need to summit Mt. Everest itself. This more achievable trek showcases breathtaking views and the opportunity to delve into Sherpa culture with the guidance of experienced locals.
Instant Friendships with Fellow Backpackers
Backpacking often leads to spontaneous friendships. Whether taking a rest or sharing trail snacks, the instant bonds formed with fellow travelers can become cherished memories, highlighting one of the best aspects of backpacking.
Cinque Terre, Italy
Cinque Terre is famed for its colorful stacked buildings and picturesque coastal villages connected by a scenic network of trails. Exploring these trails allows you to experience the beauty of ‘The Five Lands’ beyond the typical tourist attractions.
Avenue of Volcanoes, Ecuador
At the Avenue of Volcanoes near Quito, you’ll encounter breathtaking views, including the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Quilotoa. The region is also home to friendly locals, enriching your backpacking experience with cultural depth.
Collecting Unique Memories
Collecting currency from each country you visit is a meaningful keepsake. Unlike typical souvenirs, money holds historical and cultural importance, allowing travelers to reminisce about their adventures as they compare different currencies.
GR-20, France
Corsica is the perfect destination for those seeking the charm of the French countryside. The GR-20 trail boasts a challenging 112-mile hike, rewarding adventurers with stunning views of snowy peaks, expansive craters, lakes, and lush forests.
Simien Mountains, Ethiopia
This underappreciated trek spans 83 miles through Ethiopia’s Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Consider spending approximately ten days exploring its diverse landscapes alongside a local guide, with a chance to spot native wildlife.
Overcoming Hurdles on the Trail
During any backpacking journey, it’s common to face challenges, such as forgetting essential items. However, embracing these moments helps foster resourcefulness and adaptability, making the entire experience more enriching.
Path of the Gods, Italy
Path of the Gods lives up to its name, offering breathtaking views and a sense of walking through mythological landscapes. Trekking through scenic trails adorned with bougainvillea and lemon trees can evoke emotions that add to your journey.
Overland Track, Tasmania
This scenic path from Cradle Mountain to Lake St. Clair takes approximately six days to complete. Adventurers seeking to extend their journey can explore nearby side trips and enjoy overnight stays in huts along the route.
The West Coast Trail, Canada
Renowned as one of Canada’s more challenging trails, the West Coast Trail spans 75 kilometers through stunning rainforest, beaches, and rivers. Expect to navigate more than 100 ladders, but the breathtaking views you’ll earn are well worth the effort.
Reaching Personal Limits
Successful backpacking often involves facing challenges that push your limits. Whether due to illness or overwhelming fatigue, these experiences are integral to your journey, contributing to memorable stories that enrich your adventure.
