When a hiking location becomes popular there are often too many people present for you to truly enjoy yourself. If you’d like to hike in more secluded areas around the world these are some of the best as they’re peaceful, and also offer some of the most breathtaking scenery on the planet.
1. The Tian Shan Mountains, Kyrgyzstan
(photo credit:Â dnevill)
Once you reach this former Soviet nation you’ll realize it’s a bit off the beaten path when it comes to tourism. However, the mountainous landscape and virgin forests are simply amazing. If you head to the north-eastern part of the country you’ll find the mountain range is ideal for trekkers who are hoping for a challenge. A visit to Issyk Kul is also a must since it’s the second biggest alpine lake in the world. This trekking location will also enable you to view the nomadic style of life that many of the residents live by.
2. Ladakh, India
(photo credit:Â caffeineam)
The hiking trails of Ladakh are suited for more experienced hikers and trekkers. The trails are pretty much underdeveloped and you may need the help of a horse and/or guide to help get you through them. You’re free to explore the trails on your own, but if you do, be very careful. Many of the routes take you through some pretty remote villages as well as some high mountain sides. The area offers an exceptional cultural and scenic experience. After a long day of hiking, a comfortable hotel room will prepare for another day of activities. Search the Expedia website to compare hotel rates.
3. The Tatra Mountains, Slovakia
(photo credit:Â asturdesign)
These are the highest mountains in the Carpathian range and they form a natural border Poland and Slovakia. It’s a popular area with skiers in the winter, but pretty isolated during the rest of the year. The mountain peaks create some wonderful valleys and you’ll come across some scenic glacial lakes and waterfalls here. The Orla Perc trail is considered the most challenging and is designed for experienced trekkers only.
4. The Simien Mountains, Ethiopia
(photo credit:Â travel_aficionado)
These mountains offer some amazing scenery and wildlife. You’ll be able to see some animals that are unique to this part of the world. These include the Gelada Baboon, Walia Ibex, and Caracal as well as unique types of wolves. The landscapes have been created by seismic activity over the years and the views are second to none with numerous monoliths, ravines, deep ridges, waterfalls, and canyons. Trekking here is a truly amazing and unforgettable experience.
5. The Caucus Mountains, Georgia
(photo credit:Â anabadili)
The Caucus Mountains feature diverse landscapes and climates. You’ll find everything from glaciers, to marshes and meadows. The country is pretty secluded due to the nearby Caspian and Black Seas. This makes it an ideal place to explore if you’d like to be away from the crowds. You’ll find plenty of gorges here along with traditional medieval towns and villages. There are some beautiful historic stone churches in the mountains’ foothills.
6. Patagonia, Chile
(photo credit:Â worldresourcesinstitute)
This mountainous region is largely unspoiled and filled with fantastic meadows, waterfalls, rivers, crystal clear lakes, and glaciers. In addition, the mountains are pretty close to forested areas, the dry Pampas, and grasslands. With ecosystems are very diverse in this part of South America, which makes Patagonia one of the world’s most beautiful and exotic destinations.
The days are also pretty long in this part of the world because it’s quite a way south from the equator. You’ll find that many of the days enjoy about 18 hours of sunlight during January and February. One of the best areas to visit is Futaleufu Valley as it’s quite secluded.
