Where Do We Go After COVID-19?

After several weeks or even months at home and a lot of stress, the world is slowly returning to a new normality and with it we all begin to think about what our next destination will be. After being inside for so long one learns to value the fresh air, family and friends, and the wonders that nature gifts us everyday. That’s why today I decided to write about the destinations that allow us to relax but, at the same time, discover other worlds, other cultures and, mainly, enjoy nature.

Everybody knows what hiking is and almost everybody has practiced it at least once in their lives. Walking in the mountains or on the hills near your home is something that many of us do on weekends. However, few of us dare to embark on a multi-day trek, sleeping in tents and with the minimum of personal hygiene required. It may not sound so inviting if we put it in those terms, but after reading about some of the most popular hiking routes in the world, I assure you that you will want to start getting your backpack ready. Shall we?

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu, in Peru, is the preferred destination for trekkers in South America. This ancient Inca citadel remained intact and hidden from the conquistadors for hundreds of years until its discovery in 1911. The Incas had built an extensive system of trails that connected this citadel with the rest of the empire and those trails are used today by thousands of visitors to reach Machu Picchu from Cusco. The most popular route is the Inca Trail, which takes four days to complete.

Poon Hill

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek in Nepal, also known as the Annapurna Panorama Trek, is the ideal option for beginners or for those hikers who don’t have time for long treks. The view from Poon Hill during the sunrise is enchanting and is admired by thousands of adventurers every year. The short itineraries and the minimal altitude differences on the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek make the risk of altitude sickness enormously small.

Everest Base Camp

Mount Everest lies between Nepal and China and is the highest peak in the world. Getting to the top requires weeks of walking and climbing, months and even years of training and experience, and a good physical and mental condition. But don’t worry, here we won’t talk about the summit, but about Everest Base Camp. The route to base camp can be completed on foot and takes about 12 days of walking. It is advisable to train before the trek, but the EBC hike is an accessible route that takes you through traditional villages where you will learn about the culture of the place, visit Buddhist temples and enjoy the best views of the highest peaks of the Himalayas.

Mount Toubkal

Mount Toubkal is located in Morocco. At 4167 meters, Mount Toubkal is the highest peak in Northern Africa and can be reached on foot. This makes the “Jbel Toubkal” perfect for trekking expeditions. Because the mountain is relatively close to the city of Marrakech, access is easy and trekking excursions can be done in a single weekend. On the way you will discover the Berber culture and enjoy spectacular views from the top, including the Sahara desert.

W-Trek

The W trek is located in Torres del Paine, in Chile. This trek is one of the most famous tours in Patagonia. The W represents the shape of the route if you look at it from above. This route is not too long and many trekkers choose to do it in 3 days. The W trek Patagonia has the most varied and colorful landscapes. Along the way you will find hanging glaciers, waterfalls, rivers, lakes and granite peaks. The red color given by the lengas in autumn and winter is something unique and spectacular.

These are just a few options, but the truth is that the world is full of routes and trails that await new visitors. Take advantage of your next vacation to enjoy nature, the mountains and the fresh air. After all, what better way to avoid the virus than in the open, away from the big crowds? Get your backpack ready and start planning your next adventure!