Welcome – Ahlan wa Sahlan

According to pretty much every Jordanian you speak to, this small country, a third of the size of the UK, is considered the cradle of civilisation. While it is the lure of desert sand, salty sea and striking ruins that first attracts visitors, it is the conviviality of the locals that act as a lasting memory. Hospitality lies at the heart of Jordanian culture. Never has the old adage, ‘my house is your house’, been more fitting than here in the Hashemite Kingdom.

Amman

Most visitors to Jordan arrive by way of Queen Alia International Airport in the capital, Amman. This bustling, state of the art city, stylish and multicultural, with boutique shops and cutting-edge art galleries is actually one of the oldest metropolis’s in the world dating back to the 13^th Century BC. For instant immersion, make your way downtown to Rainbow Street and treat yourself to a helping of the nationally treasured lamb dish, Mansar, or to Al Balad for a touch of retail therapy. To get your city bearings, walk up hill to the ancient Citadel. For maximum authenticity, make sure that this coincides with the Muezzin call to sunset prayer.  

Jerash

For most visitors to Jordan, Amman is simply the springboard from which to visit the rest of the country. Based on its proximity to the capital, a popular day trip is 36km north to the roman ruins of Jerash. If it were not for Petra, Jerash would come top of the list for visitors to Jordan, for its highly impressive selection of preserved Roman baths, hippodrome, temples and archway. Try and catch a daily (bar Tuesday) Roman re-enactment where you get to ride chariots, chew the cud with centurions and partake in Roman war games.

Float on the Dead Sea

Heading 60km south of Amman, you arrive at the lowest point on earth or as it is commonly known, The Dead Sea. Situated 410 metres below sea level in the Wadi Mujib Gorge, it is also known as Salt Sea due to its 33.7% salinity around 9.6 times saltier than the ocean. The best way to enjoy the Dead Sea is to bathe in it and while you’re at it, take a book to read as the consistency of the salt provides natural buoyancy.

If you fancy getting high at the lowest point on earth, the Royal Aero Sports Club of Jordan, offer gyrocopter and sky diving opportunities. No experience necessary.

Wadi Mujib Nature Reserve

Wash the salt away in the waterfalls gushing out of the surrounding cliffs of the Wadi Mujib nature reserve that soar 900 metres above sea level. This dramatic terrain offers excellent canyoning opportunities; sliding on rocks, wading up the Wadi Mujib and abseiling off the peaks of waterfalls.

Dana Reserve and the Jordan Trail

One of Jordan’s most appealing features is its small size enabling you to pack a lot into a short time. One of the best ways of getting to know the country intimately is by hiking all or part of the 650km Jordan Trail, which comprises woods, deserts, villages and wadis, that connect Um Qais on the Israeli border in the north with the turquoise sea of Aqaba in the south. Voted one of the world’s best hikes by the National Geographic is the five-day stretch of Jordan Trail through the Dana Biosphere Reserve to Petra (see below) along the face of the Great Rift Valley.

Lost City of Petra

The number one port of call for most visitors to Jordan is the UNESCO preserved pink sandstone city of Petra. With its palaces, caves and 800 tombs dating back to 300BC, this ‘rose red city half as old as time’, is one of the seven new wonders of the world. Located 240km south of Amman and stretching over 264 square kilometres, Petra served as the foremost city of the industrious Nabateans, a nomadic Arab tribe who grew Petra, or Raqmu as they knew it, into the hub of the spice trade. Abandoned in the 12^th Century, Petra was rediscovered in 1812 by a Swiss explorer and since then referred to as the Lost City of Petra. No amount of words can describe the sheer exhilaration of emerging for the first time, from the narrow Siq Canyon corridor and catching a glimpse of the Treasury, Petra’s most iconic façade cut into the rock and stretching 40 metres high.

For a magical experience, book a hotel in the surrounding town of Wadi Musa and visit the ancient city by night, when it is lit only by the moon and candlelight.

Wadi Rum

No trip to Jordan is complete without total desert immersion and the 300 square miles of Wadi Rum with its sand dunes, mountain climbs and ancient Bedouin tribes is only too happy to oblige. You might recognise the desert from its starring role in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. Don’t skimp on time here because an overnighter in a Bedouin camp, under the desert stars is an essential. Expect a full quota of exceptional Bedouin hospitality in the form of camel ride, dinner and music and if possible, round the night off with a balloon ride at dawn. Hiking is highly recommended but make sure you have a Bedouin guide as it is easy to get lost. If you fancy shimmying up a mountain, Wadi Rum is home to Jabal Umm ad Dami, Jordan’s highest peak, 1,854 metres above sea level offering spectacular views over the Red Sea and Saudi Arabia.

Dive into Aqaba

If views of the Red Sea from atop a mountain peak put you in the mood for a dip, head 77km west to Aqaba. A small stretch of coastline but with its crystal waters, vivid coral reefs and deep canyons spread over thirty dive sites, this stretch of Red Sea is a divers’ paradise. Diving instructors and PADI courses are widely available. If already qualified, dive deep and explore the Cedar Pride, a 74 metre cargo vessel sunk in 1985, and now considered the most famous dive site in Jordan.

Know Before You Go

1. The best time to visit Jordan is in the spring; March – May before the long, scorching summer months sneak in.
2. The most economical way to ‘do Jordan’ is to buy the Jordan Pass which entitles travelers to prepaid (and considerably cheaper) entry to over 40 attractions. Purchase before arriving in Jordan and the entry visa fees will be waived so long as your trip includes three nights or more.
3. considered disrespectful in Jordanian culture to turn down an offer of food, so even if you are bursting at the seams, smile and graciously accept whatever comes your way.

Hike and bike Durmitor National Park

Durmitor National Park includes Montenegro’s highest mountains, with 18 stunning glacial lakes and spectacular scenery throughout.  It’s 39,000 acres offers some of Europe’s best cycling trails and hiking trails. Climb Bobotov Kuk, Montenegro’s highest peak, check out the Black Lake, named after the shadow cast by the Medjed Peak and black pines surrounding it, or find your own way through the many paths available.

Get active at Tara Canyon

Set within Durmitor National Park, Tara Canyon is considered one of the world’s most beautiful canyons. At 82 kilometres long and 1.3 kilometres deep only the Grand Canyon is deeper making it an awe-inspiring sight. Fantastic views await from both the mountain top and the bottom of the gorge, with waterfalls and cascades completing the stunning scenery. 

The Tara River is also the place to get active with activities from canyoning and zip lining available. But the highlight is whitewater rafting the canyon. With rapids ranging from 2 to 4+ depending on time of year (go in spring for the wildest ride), this is one Montegnegro experience that will get your heart racing! 

See the sites of Kotor

A well-deserved UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kotor is one of Montenegro’s most beautiful towns. This medieval city’s winding streets are contrasted with Venetian places, all wrapped within 4 kilometres of thick city walls. Take in the sheer beauty of Bay of Kotor from a walk along the wall or a trip up to the Castle of Giovanni and marvel at the rugged mountains that consume the surrounding coastline. It’s a magical experience and a must-see on a trip to Montenegro.

Explore the Blue Grotto

Nestled near Zanjice Beach, Montenegro’s Blue Grotto is a secluded cove and is a must-see for any outdoorsy visitor. The stunning blue colour comes from the reflection of the light on the sandy bottom of the cave and can be seen even as you approach. Reach this beauty by first visiting the lovely Herceg Novi village and taking a boat the rest of the way. Once inside, enjoy a refreshing dip in the grotto before heading back.

Hike the national parks

Nearly 80 percent of Montenegro is covered in mountains, so don’t forget your hiking gear! You can dive into nature in five national parks with over 60 hiking trails to choose from ranging from a few hours to several days.

In particular, Lovcen National Park has a fantastic mix of nature, history and culture, all on the doorstep of Kotor. 20km from the capital city, this national park has beautiful hikes with steep descents and sheer drops but rewarding views making it all worthwhile. And if you’d like some adrenaline to go with your hike there’s adventure activities to spare including zip wires and quad biking. 

Visit Ostrog Monastery

Set on the side of Ostroska Greda, an almost sheer cliff face, Ostrog Monastery is the most important Christian site in Montenegro and is visited by almost a million tourists and pilgrims a year. This 17th century church is carved into the rock face, leaving visitors wondering how this architectural wonder was achieved.

Visit the turquoise waters of Lake Piva

A trip to the Lake Piva reservoir is a must-do on a trip to Montenegro. Lake Piva is a stunning 45km lake formed from the Mratinje Dam back in 1975. It boasts incredible mountain views as well as caves and grottos for endless exploration.

Looking for adventure on Lake Piva? Go white-water rafting or kayaking for some extra fun to this already beautiful experience.

Explore the coastline from the water 

Explore Montenegro’s quaintest beaches and secret spots on a sailing holiday. More affordable than the rest of the Balkans, sailing in Montenegro is an absolute treat and an experience you’re sure to remember.

With so much to do in such a small place, what are you waiting for?

Everest Base Camp Trek Overview

Distance: 130km roundtrip

Duration: Around 12 days

Difficulty: Difficult

Highest point: 5545 meters

Trekking to the Everest Base Camp will take you on an exciting and wild adventure through the Himalayan Region. It’s a mountain lover’s dream. The route will take you through Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is the national park where you’ll also find Mount Everest.

Beginning in Lukla, you’ll spend around 12 days with a guide trekking an average of 15km a day with one or two rest days for acclimatisation. The trek involves rocky terrain and snow with a gradual ascent and high-altitude gains, requiring a good deal of physical fitness and overall good health.

There are many highlights of the Everest Base Camp Trek from the scenery and the traditional Sherpa villages to the people you meet. You’ll see the majestic viewpoint of Kalapatthar, the highest point of the trek, which offers panoramic views of the world’s highest mountains. You’ll also see Nepal’s biggest and longest glaciers, Khumbu and Ngozumpa. Finally, of course, arriving at the Everest Base Camp is quite the accomplishment. You’ll encounter those who are about to summit and hear stories from those who already have. You can finally bask in the accomplishment of making it to the base and getting that classic celebratory shot.

Takeaway Points of the Everest Base Camp Trek:

You’ll reach higher altitudes and see more mountain views on the Everest Base Camp Trek. It’s a linear route so the scenery on the way out will be the same as the way back – albeit from a different angle. It’s also a more expensive, but shorter trek than the Annapurna Circuit.

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Distance: 260km (if walking the entire route)

Duration: Around 16-18 days

Difficulty: Difficult

Highest point: 5416 meters

This exciting Nepalese trek begins in Bhulbhule and takes you on an adventure through various terrains such as lush green hills, lowland villages, and icy glaciers. You’ll witness incredible views of the surrounding mountains as you make your way through the roughly 260km trek over 16-18 days.

Though still a more difficult trek compared to others around the world, the ascents and altitude gains are gentler and its highest point, Thorung La Pass, reaches 5416m, which is slightly less than the trek to the Everest Base Camp.

There are many highlights during the Annapurna Circuit such as exploring Nepal’s cultural Gurung villages and meandering through bamboo and oak to the forests of rhododendron, breathing splashes of colour into the trek. There’s even several hot springs where you can relax your muscles and take a breather. Another major accomplishment and exciting moment is arriving to the Annapurna Base Camp with its incredible views of Mount Annapurna. It’s certainly an achievement to boast about.

Take Away Points of the Annapurna Circuit

The Annapurna Circuit is slightly easier than the Everest Base Camp Trek because of its more gradual gains and lower altitudes. It is, however, a longer journey but cheaper journey in the end. The Annapurna Circuit offers a unique cultural experience as you encounter several villages along the route.

Inca Trail Overview

Distance: 45 km or 26 miles

Duration: 4-5 days

Difficulty: Moderate

Highest point: 4215 m

Availability: Government requires every trekker gets a tourist permits in advance (capped at 200 a day) and it’s required to go with a guide.

The Inca Trail is known as one of the best hikes in South America and the and the well-known route to Machu Picchu. You’ll follow the ancient road system built by the Incas as you navigate through dramatic mountain passes, ruins, and misty forests as you dive into the Peruvian countryside. After 4-5 days of moderate hiking you’ll arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.

Highlights

Following the Inca Trail, you’ll stumble upon ancient ruins as you trek through the Andes Mountains. The dramatic mountain passes and misty forests will be your backdrop through must of the trek.

At the end of your first day you’ll pass the ruins of Wayllabamba, which translates to “grassy plain” and it’s an excellent spot to catch the sunset.

The second day will involve trekking through the gorgeous and green Valley of Llulluchapampa. Throughout the rest of the journey you’ll see other ruins like Wiñay Wayna and Phuyupatamarca (The City Above the Clouds).

One of the best parts, of course, is the final morning as you trek to see the sunrise at the Sun Gate before finally entering Machu Picchu.

Difficulty

Regular fitness is recommended for any extending hiking, so the same applies when hiking through the Andes to Machu Picchu. The general difficultly of the Inca Trail is moderate, but you are hiking 45 kilometres over typically 4 days. This means you’ll spend roughly 6-9 hours walking each day.

Facilities

As the Inca Trail is the more popular and touristic option, it offers better facilities to trekkers. Toilets are showers are available throughout the trail and are generally well-maintained.

There are campsites throughout the route, and they are designed by the government, so more groups will be sleeping at once place. There are also options for a more “glamping” experience with better bedding and tents.

Pros and Cons for the Inca Trail

The Inca Trail is full of history, which is why most people would choose it. It’s also less strenuous than the Salkantay Trek and takes slightly less time. On the downside, it’s more expensive as you have to go with a guide and Inca Trail tours are typically more expensive than tours on the Salkantay Trek. Of course, it’s a busier trail, so it’ll be slightly more crowded, and you won’t be able to see as much wildlife.

Salkantay Trek Overview

Distance: 60 km or 37 miles

Duration: 5 days

Difficulty: Challenging

Highest point: 4600 m

Availability: No tourist permit restrictions, typically around 50 hikers per day.

The Salkantay Trek is an excellent alternative to the classic route to Machu Picchu. This route offers new views and an exciting trek through the Andes. You’ll pass by the gorgeous Humantay Lagoon and witness the jaw-dropping vista views that the Salkantay Pass offers. The hike will end, of course, once you reach the prize: Machu Picchu. You’ll be able to tour and wander the World Heritage site at your own pace.

Highlights

Following the Salkantay Trek you’ll witness sweeping, mountain landscapes and tropical jungles

as you navigate through the Andes Mountains.

On the first day you’ll trek to the marvelous turquoise-coloured Humantay Lagoon, which is one of the top highlights. On the second day, you’ll make it to the treks highest point: the Salkantay Pass, which offers stunning vistas of the valley below.

Other highlights include seeing the Mount Salkantay, one of the most iconic mountains in the Cusco region as well as waterfalls, natural wildlife, and the cloud forest.

Finally, you’ll hike along the Apu Salkantay and reap the reward of finally arriving at Machu Picchu.

Difficulty

Given the additional kilometres of this hike, it’s more strenuous than the Inca Trail and requires good physical fitness. You’ll trek through rougher, deeper, and higher terrain over the course of 5 days. You’ll trek around 6-7 hours each day and a 3 hour stretch the last day from Santa Teresa to Machu Picchu Pueblo.

Facilities

There are toilets available throughout the treks. They aren’t glamorous but they do exist as well as cold and hot showers. As for the campsites, you can stay in tents and some private tour operators have their own private campsites with more comfortable tents and bedding and plus privacy with toilets and showers. If you’re looking for a finer glamping experience, there are also upscale lodges available.

Pros and Cons for the Salkantay Trail

The Salkantay Trail is more strenuous and takes slightly longer than the Inca Trail. However, since it’s not as common, you’ll feel more secluded and gives you a better chance at checking out Peruvian wildlife. On the downside, there’s less history to this trail, which turns some trekkers away.

Here are our top tips for planning a multi-day hike.

1. Guided vs Self-guided Hiking

The first decision is whether to take a guided trip, where everything is organised for you, or organising it yourself. Guided hikes can be great if you don’t want to spend your time organising or reading the map or you’d like to meet more people. Guided trips range from hiking weekends, where one of the participants leads the hike, to a full trek with professional local guides. If there’s a few of you, you can arrange a more tailored guided experience, although this does come at a higher cost.

2. Accommodation and luggage

Once you’ve decided on the style, you need to determine what you’re doing with your luggage. The main options are: carrying everything including camping equipment; carrying your luggage for the week but using pre-established camps / bed and breakfast accommodation; or carrying a day pack and using porters or luggage transport services. 

Make sure you’re clear on the style of hike you’re doing as this will make a big difference to what you bring, how you train and how you feel on the trip. 

3. Ensure you’re fit enough

Part of the fun of multi-day hikes is that they are a challenge but you won’t enjoy it if you’re struggling. Some training up front will reap huge rewards while you’re away. Try to get out for longer hikes as well as your regular workout, and practice on hills can make all the difference if your trek is going to be mountainous.

4. Break in your walking boots

It might sound obvious, but ensure you have good walking boots and they are well broken in across all terrains. If you’ve only broken them in on flat terrain but your hike is hilly you will get blisters or worse.

5. Pack light – but for all weathers

Packing light, but taking into account weather fluctuations, is probably the hardest challenge. Bring layers of quick dry clothing, don’t expect to have clean clothes every day and make sure that you’ve got enough to keep you warm and dry in the evenings. Once you’ve decided on what to pack take a look at everything you plan to bring and then take as much out as possible. But don’t forget the blister plasters!

6. Invest in a good backpack

A good backpack is comfortable, fits well and doesn’t rub while you’re walking. Get a the smallest rucksack possible for your hike. Invest in a pack with good padding on the shoulders and waist strap and with plenty of pockets.

7. Bring walking poles

Walking poles can make all the difference on a long hike. They spread the effort across your body, not just in your legs, reducing the strain on your ankles, knees and hips. They are also great for helping with balance both on the up- and downhill meaning that you’re less likely to slip. And they pack up and tie easily onto the outside of your backpack when you’re not using them .

8. Bring plenty of water

Have a good waterbottle (or two) and make sure that you fill it regularly when you’re hiking. Staying hydrated is the most important thing you can do to keep healthy while you walk.

9. Stay safe

If you’re hiking independently make sure you have someone to check in with, who will raise the alarm if they haven’t heard from you at the agreed time. Download an app like What3Words which can pinpoint your location to a 3sq metre area in case you do get into trouble. Keep an eye on upcoming weather conditions or potential obstacles and have a contingency plan on place where possible.

So there you have it, a few planning tips to help you get the most out of your multi-day hike. Enjoy!

Hadrian’s Wall Path, Northumberland and Cumbria

Distance: 84 miles

Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was built between AD122 and AD128 to separate the Romans from the barbarians. The Hadrian’s Wall Path runs the length of the wall, passing forts and ancient settlements as well as offering spectacular views of Northumberland. 

Most of the hiking trail is flat, but the hills offer beautiful views of the surrounding settlements. The official trail runs from Wallsend to Bowness-on-Solway and experienced hikers can expect to complete the trail in five to ten days. 

South West Coast Path 

Distance: 630 miles

The South West Coast Path is the longest and one of the best UK hikes in the country and is home to some of the most beautiful secluded beaches of the country. The trail starts from Minehead, Somerset, follows the coastline through Devon and Cornwall before ending at Poole Harbor, Dorset.

The trail can be done in any combination of day trips, week long sections or even all at once. The difficulty of the hikes vary depending on the section, with some parts being considered particularly strenuous. Expect to see stunning beaches, rugged coastline, hidden churches and the occasional seal or dolphin.

Coast to Coast Path

Distance: 192 miles

The coast to coast hiking path starts from St Bees Head on the Irish Sea, passes through Lake District, North York Moors, Yorkshire Dales, and ends at Robin Hood’s Bay. It covers three of the country’s best national parks; the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales National Park, and North York National Park, in just one hike. This means the views are spectacular! 

The hiking trail is diverse, comprising rocky formations, rolling hillsides, limestone plateaus, and country lanes. If walking the whole trail it takes around two weeks, however there are shorter treks that can be completed within a week or less. 

West Highland Way, Glasgow to the Highlands

Distance: 96 miles

The West Highland Way, running from Glasgow to the Highlands, is one of the best UK hikes and is a perfect choice for a week-long hiking trip. The trail runs from Milngavie just outside Glasgow to Fort William. It encompasses the Loch Lomond, Rannoch moors and the Highlands, finishing with magnificent views of Ben Nevis. 

While the hike starts relatively easily, the terrain gets increasingly more rugged as the hike moves from south to north.   The views of the lush green countryside parks, open moorlands, steep mountains, and loch-shores add to the beauty of the trail, making it one not to miss. 

These are just a few of the best multi-day hikes in the UK, ready to reward any hiker with a once in a lifetime experience.