The 5 Best Hiking Spots in the World

There's nothing quite like exploring the great outdoors, and hiking is one of the best ways to do this. Below are five spots that will leave you with not only a great workout, but also the chance to experience some of the most beautiful and historic places that the world has to offer.

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: It's definitely one of the most-well known hiking trails in the world, but for good reason. The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru is either 55 or 51 miles long (depending on where you plan to start) and takes four to five days to complete. It's not for the novice hiker, but it will reward you with views of the jungle and the mountain, as well as historical ruins.

Queen Charlotte Track: New Zealand is one of the most naturally beautiful countries in the world (and unlike its sister country, Australia, there are no snakes). One spot in particular which is perfect to visit all year round is the hilly Queen Charlotte Track, located between the Queen Charlotte and Keneperu Sounds, where you'll travel through forest, coves and skyline ridges.

Pays Dogon: Pays Dogon is the jewel of West Africa. It's located near the city of Bandiagara, and the Bandiagara escarpment, which is a Unesco World Heritage Site. On this trail, you will be able to see the cliff top villages and get a feel for the Dogon culture—be sure to read up about the culture and history of this magical place before visiting.

The Narrows: If you find yourself in Zion National Park, then The Narrows trail is a must. It spans across 16 miles and will take you through canyons and along riverbeds (but be prepared to get wet because in a few stretches on the trail you may even be waist deep in water).

Note: You are unable to hike when the river is high from runoff, which usually happens between April and early May.

Kalalau Trail: Hawaii is known to be one of the most alluring islands in the world, so it makes sense that they would have a magnificent trail. The 11 mile long Kalalau Trail was originally built in the late 1800s (but some of the sections of the trail were later rebuilt in 1930), and it takes you through rugged cliffs, and ends up on the coast of the Kalalau beach.