Spotlight on… Hiking
OVER THE RAINBOW
Enigma,Peru
Venture into one of Peru’s most striking and colourful landscapes with Enigma. Most visitors know the Ausangate area only for the spectacular Rainbow mountain - and dash in and out to see it in a day. Instead, Enigma has developed a four-day route to explore more of Ausangate’s spectacular scenery. Yes, you’ll see the Rainbow mountain but you’ll also cross deep valleys, observe highland wildlife and meet Quechua-speaking communities living much as they have for generations, all while staying in the utmost comfort and style.
BANK HOLIDAY
The Tailor, Australia
South Australia’s Riverland is a fertile landscape of forests and agriculture, crossing the borders of three states: New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia. The Tailor suggests a gentle four-day guided walk tracing one section of the iconic river, exploring red gum forests, wetlands and wildlife-rich floodplains, while focusing on river ecology, conservation and Aboriginal Cultural heritage. Spend the evenings enjoying gourmet local food and wine aboard the elegant houseboat you’ll call home for the duration.
OFF THE BEATEN TRACK
Ahipara, New Zealand
New Zealand is renowned for spectacular hiking but with Ahipara, there are the obvious routes and then there are the trails they recommend. One such is the Hollyford Track in Fiordland National Park, a secret escape for those seeking tranquility in an untouched wilderness. The track winds its way along the Hollyford River, through glacial valleys, past cascading waterfalls (perfect for cooling off on a hot day), ancient rainforests teeming with birdlife, crystal-clear lakes, and finally, the grand reveal – the picture-perfect Martins Bay fiord.
THE LOST WORLD
Sticky Rice Travel, Borneo
Maliau Basin, known as the Lost World of Sabah, is one of Borneo’s most remote and untouched wilderness areas. This bowl-shaped basin is surrounded by steep ridges and dense forest: an isolated and protected ancient ecosystem filled with rare plants, misty trails and hidden waterfalls. Hiking here is a journey through a place few have explored. The rugged trails offer solitude and a rare chance to be up close and personal with untamed nature in a world that time has quietly forgotten.
SPICE ROUTES
Banyan, India
From the deserts of Rajasthan to the mountains of the North, India is known for spectacular landscapes. But along with these familiar favourites, Banyan recommends experiencing the magic of the South on foot. Discover the rolling hills around Munnar, trek the spice-scented paths of Wayanad, or - a particular Banyan favourite - wander in the peaceful countryside around Rajakkad Estate in Tamil Nadu, surrounded by the grandeur of the Palani Hills.
MOUNTAIN PATHS
ITEM, Türkiye
Take an unforgettable journey through Türkiye’s south-western Latmos Mountains on a guided hike with ITEM. Discover 8,000-year-old Neolithic rock art, frescoed Byzantine monasteries, and Hellenistic ruins. A masterclass in immersive eco-tourism, the walk highlights the region’s natural and cultural heritage while supporting local communities, including a farm-to-table lunch in Kapıkırı.
HERITAGE TRAIL
PLAN-IT, Morocco
A hike from the picturesque palm-strewn village of Skoura, between the Draa Valley and the High Atlas Mountains, blends spectacular landscapes with Moroccan culture to offer a unique experience. Walkers will discover lush palm groves and dramatic red-rock gorges on trails that vary in difficulty, reaching altitudes up to 1,500 meters and winding through scenic desert valleys to remote Berber villages and cultural landmarks. An ideal adventure for those looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, combining natural beauty with Moroccan heritage.
THE RIVER WILD
Galavanta, Colombia
As one of the world’s most biodiverse countries, Colombia offers incredible landscapes. From June to November, discover Caño Cristales, known locally as ‘the river of five colors’, where aquatic plants turn the crystal-clear waters into a vibrant tapestry of red, fuchsia, yellow, green and blue. Accompanied by a guide, trek to waterfalls and natural pools and view rich wildlife, including monkeys, birds and perhaps even pink river dolphins, in one of Colombia’s richest ecological zones, where the Amazon and Eastern Plains regions meet.