Epic Hikes of the World ( PDFDrive )

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OFF-SEASON CLASSICS
INCA TRAIL, PERU
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a perennial rite of passage for every would-be
South American explorer. The iconic four-day trek is deservedly the stuff of legend
– crossing two 13,000ft (3962m) passes, traversing ancient Incan steps and
tunnels, and visiting other magnificent ruins en route to breathtaking views of
Machu Picchu at dawn through the Gate of the Sun. Peruvian government efforts
to safeguard the trail have resulted in new restrictions limiting access to 500
people per day, which means that permits for the dry-weather months of May to
October typically book up months in advance. If you’re willing to put up with
slightly less dependable weather, consider a trip in the off-season, when trails are
quieter and competition for reservations less daunting.
Start // Km 82 along Río Urubamba railway from Cuzco
End // Machu Picchu
Distance // 27 miles (43km)
More info // www.incatrailperu.com
MT TEIDE, TENERIFE, CANARY ISLANDS
At 12,198ft (3718m), Spain’s highest mountain is an enjoyable and surprisingly
rigorous summer challenge, but outside high season, when the Parque Nacional
del Teide’s four million or so annual visitors trickle down to manageable numbers, it
comes into its own – particularly in early spring, when the lower slopes start to
bloom in flowers and, if you’re lucky, the summit area still has a hat of snow. The
ascent to the volcano’s peak is the real challenge, especially if you opt for the very
tough six-hour hike, but if weather or lung-power make this impossible, the cable
car will still give you the views, and the park’s 73 sq miles (190 sq km) plenty of
other enjoyable hikes. The Unesco site protects nearly 1000 Guanche
archaeological sites and contains examples of 80% of the world’s different forms of
volcanic formations, as well as 14 plants found nowhere else on earth.
Start // Montaña Blanca
End // Peak of El Teide
Distance // 10 miles (16km)