Ultimate Backpacking
Embark on the ultimate backpacking adventure with Miles of Smiles Global. Discover the freedom, adventure, and budget-friendly exploration of the world with our expertly crafted backpacking itineraries. Backpacking is one of the most rewarding ways to travel, offering freedom, flexibility, and a deep connection to the places you visit. Whether you're heading out for a weekend adventure or planning a months-long journey, these itineraries will help you prepare for the ultimate backpacking experience.
Choose Your Destination
Southeast Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia)
South America (Peru, Colombia, Bolivia)
Europe (Interrailing across countries)
Africa (South Africa, Morocco)
Oceania (New Zealand, Australia)
North America (United States, Mexico, Canada)
Southeast Asia Backpacking Itinerary (3 Weeks)
This itinerary combines some of the best hiking trails in Southeast Asia, offering a mix of stunning landscapes, cultural immersion, and adventure. It covers Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia.
Best Time to Visit: November to February (cooler and dry).
Gear: Lightweight clothing, good hiking boots, mosquito repellent, and a rain jacket.
Week 1: Laos & Vietnam
Day1-3: Luang Prabang, Laos
- Mount Phousi: A short hike for panoramic views of the city.
- Kuang Si Waterfall Hike: Trek through the jungle to turquoise waterfalls.
- Cultural Highlight: Visit temples and enjoy the night market.
- Accommodation: Homestays or guesthouses.
Day 4-7: Sapa, Vietnam
- Fansipan Trek: Known as the "Roof of Indochina," this 2-3 day trek takes you to Vietnam’s highest peak.
- Local Village Treks: Hike through rice terraces and visit ethnic minority villages like Cat Cat and Ta Van.
- Accommodation: Stay in a homestay with local families.
Week 2: Cambodia & Southern Vietnam
Day 8-10: Siem Reap, Cambodia
- Angkor Archaeological Park: Hike around the massive complex of temples, including Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, and Bayon.
- Phnom Kulen National Park: Trek to the sacred mountain and visit waterfalls and the "River of a Thousand Lingas."
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Accommodation: Budget hostels or eco-lodges.
Day 11-12: Da Lat, Vietnam
- Lang Biang Mountain: A challenging hike with stunning views of Da Lat.
- Pongour Waterfall Hike: Explore the surrounding nature and waterfalls.
- Accommodation: Stay in Da Lat’s charming guesthouses.
Day 13-15: Cat Tien National Park, Vietnam
- Jungle Trek: Explore one of Vietnam’s largest national parks, home to diverse wildlife.
- Birdwatching and River Trails: Hike along the Dong Nai River and watch for exotic birds.
- Accommodation: Eco-lodges inside the park.
Week 3: Thailand
Day16-18: Chiang Mai
- Doi Inthanon National Park: Trek through the “Roof of Thailand” with waterfalls and hill tribe villages.
- Doi Suthep: Hike up to the iconic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple.
- Accommodation: Stay in a guesthouse in Chiang Mai’s Old Town.
Day19-21: Pai
- Pai Canyon: Explore hiking trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.
- Mae Yen Waterfall Trek: A 7-km hike through forests to a beautiful waterfall.
- Accommodation: Budget-friendly bungalows or hostels in Pai.
Peru, Colombia, and Bolivia Backpacking Itinerary (3 Weeks)
This itinerary combines some of the most breathtaking hikes in South America, focusing on scenic landscapes, cultural landmarks, and adventurous treks.
Best Time to Visit: Peru & Bolivia: May to October (dry season)
Colombia: December to March, or July to September (dry season)
Gear: Sturdy hiking boots, layers for altitude changes, rain gear, and insect repellent.
Acclimatization: Spend a few days adjusting to the altitude in Cusco and La Paz.
Week 1: Peru
Day 1-4: Cusco & Sacred Valley
- Day 1: Explore Cusco and acclimate to the altitude.
- Day 2-4: Salkantay Trek (4-5 days):
- A stunning alternative to the Inca Trail, passing through glaciers, jungles, and ending at Machu Picchu.
- Highlights: Salkantay Pass, Humantay Lake, Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town).
- Accommodation: Campsites or eco-lodges along the trek.
Day 5-7: Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)
- Day Hike: A challenging but rewarding hike to the colorful Rainbow Mountain at 5,200 meters.
- Overnight Base: Stay in Cusco or nearby towns.
- Alternative: Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain (less crowded).
Week 2: Bolivia
Day 8-10: La Paz & Death Road
- Day 8: Explore La Paz, visit the Witches’ Market, and ride the Mi Teleférico cable cars.
- Day 9: Death Road Hike/Bike Tour: Trek or bike along the famous “Death Road,” with dramatic views of the Yungas.
- Day 10: Day hike around Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley), known for its otherworldly rock formations.
- Accommodation: Hostels or guesthouses in La Paz.
Day 11-13: Uyuni & Salt Flats
- 3-Day Salt Flats Tour: Explore the surreal Salar de Uyuni, trek through Incahuasi Island, see flamingo-filled lagoons, and visit volcanic landscapes.
- Hiking Highlights: Walk on the endless salt flats, trek through the desert landscapes.
- Accommodation: Basic lodges along the route.
Week 3: Colombia
Day 14-16: Medellín & Guatapé
- Day 14: Explore Medellín, visit Comuna 13, and learn about the city’s transformation.
- Day 15: Hike up El Peñol Rock (740 steps) in Guatapé for panoramic views of the lakes.
- Day 16: Day hikes in Arví Park, a natural reserve accessible by cable car.
- Accommodation: Hostels or boutique hotels in Medellín.
Day 17-20: Tayrona National Park & Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City Trek)
- Ciudad Perdida Trek (4-5 days): One of Colombia’s most famous treks, taking you through the Sierra Nevada jungle to the ancient ruins of the Lost City.
- Tayrona National Park: Relax on pristine beaches and hike through coastal trails.
- Accommodation: Campsites or hammock stays during the trek.
Ultimate Backpacking Itinerary Across Europe (3 Weeks)
Explore Europe’s most breathtaking trails, from alpine peaks to coastal paths, combining adventure with cultural experiences across five diverse countries.
Best Time to Visit: June to September for optimal weather.
Gear: Good hiking boots, layered clothing, trekking poles, and a daypack with water and snacks.
Week 1: Central Europe (Switzerland & Austria)
Day 1-4: Swiss Alps – Zermatt & The Matterhorn
- Hike: Five Lakes Trail (Zermatt) – A scenic 9.3 km loop with views of the Matterhorn reflected in crystal-clear alpine lakes.
- Optional: Take on the challenging Gornergrat Hike for glacier views.
- Accommodation: Mountain lodges or chalets in Zermatt.
Day 5-7: Austria – Innsbruck & Tyrol Region
- Hike: Nordkette Range Trails – Accessible by cable car from Innsbruck, offering panoramic hikes along alpine ridges.
- Day Hike: Zugspitze Circuit – Explore the trails around Germany’s highest peak, accessible from Tyrol.
- Accommodation: Guesthouses or alpine huts.
Week 2: Western Europe (Spain & France)
Day 8-10: Spain – Pyrenees & Montserrat
- Hike: Ordesa Valley (Spain’s Grand Canyon) – A 20 km loop through lush forests, waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs in Ordesa National Park.
- Day Trip: Hike the trails of Montserrat, a unique mountain range near Barcelona.
- Accommodation: Stay in mountain refuges or small villages like Torla.
Day 11-13: France – Chamonix & Mont Blanc
- Hike: Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) Section – Hike portions of this legendary trail, offering alpine meadows, glaciers, and sweeping views.
- Alternative: Aiguille du Midi cable car hike with views of Mont Blanc.
- Accommodation: Stay in mountain huts (Refuges) or Chamonix lodges.
Week 3: Southern Europe (Italy & Slovenia)
Day 14-16: Italy – Dolomites
- Hike: Tre Cime di Lavaredo Loop – A 10 km iconic trek offering breathtaking views of jagged peaks and alpine meadows.
- Alternative: Hike around Lago di Braies, a serene turquoise lake.
- Accommodation: Mountain refuges (Rifugi) or lodges in Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Day 17-20: Slovenia – Triglav National Park
- Hike: Mount Triglav Summit – Slovenia’s highest peak (requires an overnight stay in a mountain hut).
- Alternative: Vintgar Gorge – A short but stunning hike along wooden walkways through a deep canyon.
- Accommodation: Stay in Bled or Bohinj.
Epic Backpacking Itinerary Across Africa (3 Weeks)
Discover Africa’s diverse landscapes, from rugged mountains and desert dunes to lush jungles and coastal cliffs. This 3-week itinerary takes you through Morocco, South Africa, Tanzania, and Namibia for unforgettable hiking adventures.
Best Time to Visit: North Africa: Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November)
East Africa: June to October (dry season)
Southern Africa: May to September (cooler weather for hiking)
Gear: Sturdy hiking boots, layers for varying climates, sun protection, and insect repellent.
Week 1: North Africa – Morocco
Day 1-4: High Atlas Mountains & Mount Toubkal
- Hike: Mount Toubkal Summit (4,167 m) – A challenging 2-day trek to the highest peak in North Africa.
- Day 1: Start from Imlil village and hike to the Toubkal Refuge.
- Day 2: Summit at sunrise and descend.
- Alternative: Explore the Aït Bouguemez Valley, known as the “Happy Valley,” for moderate day hikes.
- Accommodation: Mountain refuges or guesthouses in Imlil.
Day 5-7: Todra Gorge & Sahara Desert
- Hike: Trek through the towering limestone walls of Todra Gorge.
- Desert Trek: Embark on a camel trek and hike through the Sahara’s dunes at Merzouga.
- Accommodation: Desert camp under the stars.
Week 2: Southern Africa – South Africa & Namibia
Day 8-12: Drakensberg Mountains, South Africa
- Hike: Amphitheatre Hike – A challenging trek to one of the world’s most dramatic cliffs, including the Tugela Falls.
- Alternative: Explore the Giants Castle Reserve for scenic day hikes.
- Accommodation: Mountain lodges or campsites.
Day 13-15: Namib Desert, Namibia
- Hike: Sossusvlei Dunes – Climb Dune 45 or hike to Deadvlei, with its surreal white clay pan and ancient acacia trees.
- Alternative: Trek through the Sesriem Canyon.
- Accommodation: Desert lodges or campsites near the dunes.
Day 16: Cape Town, South Africa
- Hike: Table Mountain via the Platteklip Gorge or Lion’s Head for 360° views of the city and ocean.
- Celebration: Relax at the V&A Waterfront or explore Cape Point.
- Accommodation: Guesthouses or boutique hotels in Cape Town.
Week 3: East Africa – Tanzania & Uganda
Day 17-19: Mount Kilimanjaro
- Hike: Machame Route (17-19 Days) – Known as the “Whiskey Route,” it offers stunning scenery and a gradual ascent to Africa’s highest peak.
- Day 1-2: Trek through rainforest zones.
- Accommodation: Mountain campsites along the route.
Day 20-21: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda
- Hike: Gorilla Trekking – A guided trek to see endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
- Accommodation: Eco-lodges or community guesthouses.
Ultimate Backpacking Itinerary: Australia & New Zealand (3 Weeks)
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Australia and New Zealand, from coastal cliffs and ancient rainforests to glacial valleys and alpine peaks. This 3-week itinerary takes you through some of the most iconic hikes across both countries.
Best Time to Visit:
Australia: March to May or September to November (mild weather).
New Zealand: October to April (spring to autumn).
Gear: Lightweight clothing, sturdy hiking boots, layers for cooler weather, sun protection, and rain gear.
Week 1: Australia
Day 1-3: Sydney & Blue Mountains
- Hike: Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk – A 6 km scenic trail along Sydney’s stunning coastline.
- Blue Mountains:
- Hike: Grand Canyon Walk – A 6 km loop through lush rainforests and sandstone cliffs.
- Optional: Hike to the iconic Three Sisters.
- Accommodation: Stay in Sydney or Katoomba.
Day 4-6: Tasmania – Cradle Mountain & Freycinet
- Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park:
- Hike: Cradle Mountain Summit or the Dove Lake Circuit (moderate 6 km loop).
- Freycinet National Park:
- Hike: Wineglass Bay Lookout and Hazards Beach Circuit – A 12 km trek with views of the iconic bay.
- Accommodation: Stay in eco-lodges or campsites.
Day 7: Grampians National Park, Victoria
- Hike: Pinnacle Walk – A 4.2 km trek with panoramic views of the Grampians’ rugged landscapes.
- Alternative: MacKenzie Falls Trail for a waterfall hike.
- Accommodation: Stay in Halls Gap.
Week 2: New Zealand – North Island
Day 8-10: Tongariro National Park
- Hike: Tongariro Alpine Crossing – A 19.4 km day hike through volcanic landscapes, emerald lakes, and craters.
- Accommodation: Stay in Whakapapa Village or National Park.
Day 11-12: Rotorua & Waitomo
- Rotorua: Explore geothermal parks and hike around Redwoods Forest.
- Waitomo: Take short hikes around the Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
- Accommodation: Stay in Rotorua or Waitomo.
Week 3: New Zealand – South Island
Day 13-15: Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
- Hike: Hooker Valley Track – A 10 km flat trail with views of glaciers and Mount Cook.
- Optional: Sealy Tarns Track for a more challenging uphill climb.
- Accommodation: Stay in Mount Cook Village.
Day 16-18: Queenstown & Fiordland National Park
- Queenstown:
- Hike: Ben Lomond Track – A full-day hike offering 360° views of the Southern Alps.
- Milford Sound:
- Hike: Key Summit Track, part of the Routeburn Track, for stunning views of the fjords.
- Accommodation: Stay in Queenstown or Te Anau.
Day 19-21: Abel Tasman National Park
- Hike: Abel Tasman Coast Track – A multi-day coastal hike through golden beaches and lush forests.
- Optional: Kayak and hike combination trips.
- Accommodation: Stay in lodges or campsites along the trail.
Ultimate Backpacking Itinerary Across North America (3 Weeks)
This 3-week itinerary covers the best hiking destinations across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, offering a variety of landscapes from rugged mountains to deserts and coastal trails.
Best Time to Visit: U.S. & Canada: May to October for optimal weather
Mexico: October to April for cooler, dry conditions
Gear: Layers, sturdy hiking boots, sun protection, rain gear, and bear spray in some regions.
Week 1: Western United States
Day 1-3: Yosemite National Park, California
- Hike: Half Dome (permit required) – A challenging 22 km hike with stunning views of Yosemite Valley.
- Alternative: Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls (9 km).
- Accommodation: Campgrounds or lodges in Yosemite Valley.
Day 4-5: Zion National Park, Utah
- Hike: Angels Landing (permit required) – A thrilling 8 km hike with steep drop-offs and panoramic views.
- Alternative: The Narrows – A hike through the Virgin River in a slot canyon.
- Accommodation: Camp or stay in Springdale.
Day 6-7: Grand Canyon, Arizona
- Hike: South Kaibab Trail to Skeleton Point (10 km round trip) or Bright Angel Trail to Indian Garden (15 km round trip).
- Accommodation: Lodges or campgrounds in the park.
Week 2: Canada & Alaska
Day 8-10: Banff & Jasper National Parks, Alberta
- Hike: Plain of Six Glaciers (13 km) or Lake Agnes Tea House Trail (7 km) near Lake Louise.
- Alternative: Sulphur Skyline Trail (8 km) for hot springs and mountain views.
- Accommodation: Campgrounds or lodges in Banff or Jasper.
Day 11-12: Denali National Park, Alaska
- Hike: Explore Mount Healy Overlook Trail (13 km) for sweeping views of the park.
- Optional: Backcountry trekking with a guide.
- Accommodation: Camp or stay in cabins near the park entrance.
Week 3: Mexico & Eastern United States
Day 13-15: Copper Canyon, Mexico
- Hike: Copper Canyon Rim to Bottom – A multi-day trek descending into the canyon and exploring Tarahumara villages.
- Alternative: Day hikes around Divisadero for views of the canyon system.
- Accommodation: Stay in rustic lodges or homestays.
Day 16-18: Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina
- Hike: Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte (18 km round trip) for panoramic views.
- Alternative: Clingmans Dome hike for a shorter, scenic option.
- Accommodation: Camp or stay in Gatlinburg.
Day 19-21: Acadia National Park, Maine
- Hike: Precipice Trail (3 km, challenging) or Jordan Pond Path (5 km).
- Alternative: Cadillac Mountain for sunrise views.
- Accommodation: Camp or stay in Bar Harbor.