Due to the constant growth of cities and parasitic urbanization of natural lands, it can be difficult to find remote destinations for hikers these days.
Fortunately, there are still places where the natural beauty of the wilderness is all you can see for miles around.
Here are some of the best places for backpackers looking to get as far away from civilization as possible.
1. Lake Baikal, Russia
Baikal is the oldest and deepest freshwater lake in the world. It stretches 400 miles across southeastern Siberia, just north of the Mongolian border, into the cleft where Asia divides. This split will become an ocean in many years to come.
Breathtaking views
Seals frequent the waters and rocky shores of the lake, basking in the sun to watch visitors stroll by. Olkhon Island is home to a rock formation, which was once a cave, known as the Shamanka Rock.
This site was once where shamans performed sacrifices to the spirits of the island.
Even today, people continue to travel there to experience its beauty and captivating history.
How to get there
Lake Baikal is a breathtaking destination, surrounded by Siberian taiga forests and large snow-capped mountains. However, it’s not the easiest place to reach.
The nearest international airport is located in Irkutsk, which is also a stopover of the famous Trans-Siberian Railway. From there, backpackers can travel to the nearby town of Listvyanka and take the Great Baikal Trail, which is still being completed by residents of surrounding towns.
This will take you along the lakeshore – a hike of around three days – to the village of Bolshoye. There are places to camp along the way, as well as host families if the weather proves unbearable.
Alternatively, to get to Olkhon Island, you can take a 7-hour bus/minibus ride for around $20 from Irkutsk to the ferry terminal. The ferry takes around 20 minutes to arrive on the island. Once on the island, the bus (van) will take you to your guesthouse.
Check out Nikita’s Homestead which includes room and board. It is the most “trendy” place on the island.
2. Svalbard Archipelago, Norway
Situated in a series of islands high above the Norwegian mainland, Svalbard is home to polar bears and agile arctic foxes. It sits well above the Arctic Circle and is inhabited by villagers who love interacting with international visitors. It is definitely one of the most isolated hiking destinations.
Breathtaking views
Here, travelers can experience the midnight sun. “Between late May and mid-August, nowhere in the country experiences real darkness,” reports lonely planet. In Trondheim, for example, “the first stars are only visible in mid-August”.
The Morgan girl is an unusual phenomenon that many parts of the world will never experience.
“The clear, pure air of the Arctic ensures that distant features do not appear blurry. As a result, depth perception becomes impossible and the world takes on a strangely two-dimensional appearance, where distances are indeterminable.” lonely planet explain.
How to get there
It’s easiest to get to the archipelago by flying from Oslo, Norway to Longyearbyen, Svalbard, Norway. From this tourist town of friendly locals, there are virtually no roads leading anywhere else. For this reason, locals and travelers must rent snowmobiles or boats to travel to remote towns.
Some travelers also choose to explore the surrounding fjords and glaciers aboard a Arctic cruise shipwhich provides access to remote parts of the archipelago that would otherwise be difficult to reach.
For backpackers, it is best to choose a warmer season to travel or go with an experienced backpacker who knows how to brave arctic winters. Blogger Stevie from Stevie on the move shares his experiences in Svalbard and gives tips on how to save money and where to stay during the trip.
3. Torres del Paine, Chile
This vast national park, teeming with wildlife and extravagant landscapes, is nestled above the Patagonian steppe. This land was a sheep farm long before it was transformed into a park for travelers.
Here you will find glacial lakes, incredible hiking trails, endless forests and roaring rivers. The scenery here is truly spectacular.
Breathtaking views
Besides the imposing steppe and the park itself, this region has a unique beauty in Chile. The crystal-clear Nordenskjold Lake lies in front of the Salto Grande waterfall.
Many visitors venture here to explore the famous “O” circuit through the pristine landscape created by this large body of water.
Pehoe Lake is another popular trek because of its stunning views of the Cuernos del Paine Mountains.
How to get there
This tour is located in Patagonia, just northeast of Punta Arenas.
It extends between the Andes mountain range and the Patagonian steppe, in the province of Ultima Esperanza. It is easier to buy a plane ticket and fly to Punta Arenas – or take a bus from Puerto Montt, near Santiago, to Punta Arenas.
Here is a detailed guide on how to get to your destination. Keep in mind that because this is a very rugged destination, there are some outdoor equipment which you will have to take with you.
4. Laugavegurinn Trail, Iceland
Iceland’s southern highlands attract adventurers from all over the world – but why?
According to Jennifer Pharr Davis of National geographic, the highlands contain “lava fields, transglacial streams, and flow through breathtaking landscapes with geological features that include hot springs, volcanoes, glaciers, and mountains in shades of pink, purple, blue, green, and yellow.”
Breathtaking views
This 49-mile-long trail allows hikers to experience Iceland far from the big cities and towns. It connects two nature reserves: Landmannalaugar and Thorsmork.
Along the way, hikers will discover mountains, pristine countryside, and a world devoid of urbanization. For ideas on how to plan this hike, check this article for distances and accommodation (such as shelters).
To find out how to travel here on a budget, check out This item by a backpacker and Frugal player Lindsey.
How to get there
This hike is only possible from mid-July to mid-September, as the other months are usually too snowy. You can start in Reykjavik and travel to Landmannalaugar by taking a Reykjavik Excursions bus.
Lindsay details the whole process hereas well as the prices.
5. Mount Rinjani, Indonesia
Located on the island of Lombok in Rinjani National Park, this large, active mountain volcano is surrounded by lush rainforests. It is considered an incredibly difficult hike to the summit, and many advise hiring a guide to lead you through the maze of forests.
However, it is possible to do without someone to lead the way. Plus, it will give you the chance to take it slow and really take in the scenery. It is certainly one of the Best places to visit in Lombok.
Breathtaking views
Indonesia is an exotic place teeming with wildlife, such as the proboscis monkey, Sumatran tiger, and pygmy elephant. There are many colorful birds to see, as well as reptiles and wild pigs. The rainforest is a mini-world in itself when it comes to the creatures that inhabit it.
Indonesian waterfalls also offer an extravagant spectacle. While it might be a good idea to mark their location on a map before you go, rest assured that it’s easy to spot them if you explore without a guide.
There are many volcanoes in Indonesia, but Mount Rinjani is one of the most popular to visit.
You can hire a guide at your hostel or guesthouse, or go through a travel agent. Or, if you have a suitable map and have obtained local tips and information, you can do the hike independently.
How to get there
There are flights of BaliJakarta and Surabaya, as well as from Singapore to Lombok. (Lombok is the island where Mount Rinjani is located.)
To fly to Indonesia from neighboring countries, you can check AirAsia.com for budget flights. If you arrive in Bali, you can take a ferry to Lombok or a flight.
6. Golden Bay, New Zealand
At the northern tip of the South Island of New Zealand is a beautiful and secluded place called Golden Bay. Although it remains relatively unknown, it has the kind of vibe that draws you in. Many backpackers plan to go there for a few days and end up staying for weeks.
Life is really relaxed here. Think barefoot walks on the beach and long mornings at the cafe with days shaped around the weather and tides rather than busy schedules.
Breathtaking views
Golden Bay is absolutely brimming with natural beauty. There is plenty of wildlife and if you are lucky enough you may even see baby seals playing in the shallow tide. Wharariki Beachwith its spectacular rock formations and rolling dunes, is perhaps the main highlight.
But on the other side of the point is the Abel Tasman National Park with its equally stunning golden beaches. There is also the stunning Abel Tasman Coastal Track go hiking. Inland there are forest walks and hidden swimming pools. Don’t miss the crystal clear fresh water Waikoropupuu Springs – even if you can’t swim there.
How to get there
There is no airport near Golden Bay, which helps keep visitor numbers low. Most backpackers leave Nelson by car, crossing the winding Takaka Hill. It’s a very scenic trip with incredible views along the way and that’s part of the charm of visiting Golden Bay.
7. Kyrgyzstan
This Central Asian country is just starting to receive the attention it deserves te, but don’t worry, it’s still one of the top hiking destinations for those looking to get away from it all.
Travel here and experience a unique culture, welcoming people and untouched nature.
Breathtaking views
Explore Lake Issyk-Kul and its beautiful coastline, hike to Lake Ala Kul, go horseback riding to Lake Song Kol and discover the mountain village of Arslanbob. There are many places to visit in Kyrgyzstan for those who love the outdoors.
For hiking and trekking, Jyrgalan is the rising destination. There are some new trails here await you to explore, yurts to sleep in and Kyrgyz hospitality to discover.
Of course, if you want to enhance this epic destination, you can always tackle the Pamir Highway which extends from Kyrgyzstan to Tajikistan.
How to get there
The capital, Bishkek, is actually very well connected. A quick search will show you different airlines and routes. Once in Bishkek, a minibus can take you to Karakol and Lake Issyk-Kul. And you can also get to Jyrgalan from Lake Issyk-Kul in just 45 minutes by bus.
Ready for your next hiking destination!
Most of these landmarks are accessible with the right equipment and mental attitude. Remember not to be attentive and responsible. Do everything in your power to avoid destroying the natural flora around you and keep the trails beautiful and serene for future hikers. Happy travels!
