Planning a vacation can be a challenge. Transportation alone can be a real issue. What do you do? How about planning a vacation focused on walking? It’s not only simple but also affordable. To help you get started, here are some of the top vacation destinations that can only be discovered by foot:
La Palma, Canary Islands
This place is most famous for its sunny beaches. The climate draws millions of tourists annually. Ah, but if you travel deeper into the island of La Palma, you will discover a series of underground tunnels. These tunnels were dug into the mountains in order to ensure that the water could reach both the agriculture and the forests at the lower elevations. You’ll discover unique views and an aspect of nature you’ve not previously experienced.
Supai, Arizona, USA
Yes, believe it or not, there’s a small town at the bottom of the famous Grand Canyon. This place was created by people who wanted to get away from the city and live a more isolated life. The town actually must have their mail delivered by pack mule. Hiking here is obviously excellent as the surrounding Grand Canyon (complete with rivers, waterfalls, and noteworthy views) is a natural wonder.
Paro Taktsang, Bhutan
Explore the birthplace of Buddhism. Visit the famous Taktsang Monastery, perched atop a cliff almost 3,000 feet over Paro Valley. It is accessible only by foot.
The two-hour hike begins a couple of miles from Paro Valley. This challenging hike is not for beginners and includes vertical switchbacks and a lot of rock climbing. The view and opportunity to meditate in the world-famous Tiger’s Lair make it all worthwhile.
Cinque Terre, Italy
Cinque Terre is a group of five seaside villages that are actually centuries of years old. Cinque Terre is situated on Italy’s Riviera coastline. Veteran visitors say the views are incredible. Guests take a boat to the village edge, but from there must explore the place on foot. The villages are highlighted by colorful homes above the harbor and multiple vineyards. Enjoy the wine and pesto sauce, go out fishing with some of the locals and take a stroll along the beautiful sea cliffs too.
Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Rica
Walking through this natural reserve amidst the flora and fauna here will feel like walking on clouds. There is a large network of different, well-maintained walking trails and a linking suspension bridge that allows guests to take in a stunning overhead view too. Wander through the jungle and see if you can find any of the native wildlife in this unique location.
Stromboli, Italy
This small island located off the coast of Italy in the beautiful Tyrrhenian Sea. Here you’ll discover one of the country’s three active volcanoes. Hike from one of the island’s black sand beaches to the top of the volcano which is over half a mile.
Hike there in the daylight or hike in the moonlight with torches to guide you along the way. Check the official Volcanic Explosivity Index so as to avoid an actual eruption during your visit.
Preikestolen, Norway
Experienced travelers consider the Norwegian Fjords to be one of the world’s most beautiful destinations. In the southwestern part of the country in Fyfylke is the Lysefjorden Roughly 0.38 miles above this is a cliff named Preikestolen. Hike 2.37 miles to the top of the cliff where you will find a plateau where you can enjoy unmatchable views of all the fjords. It is also a great place for BASE jumping if you’re experienced in the sport.
Laguna Verde, South America
Situated across the border of both Northern Chile and Bolivia, is crater known as Volcan Licancabur. This stratovolcano is nearly 1,313 feet wide and has a blue lake inside its crater. It is called Laguna Verde.
The lake is the site from which the planet Mars was discovered and is one of the highest bodies of water on the planet. In order to reach the lake though you will have to hike about eight miles.
