6) Tongariro Circuit, New Zealand

You might have to endure a day-long flight to get there, but the trekking in New Zealand is so good that by the end of your trip you’d probably be willing to spend a week in one of Ryanair’s uniquely ‘leg-free’ economy seats just to get back there. The variety, particularly on New Zealand’s South Island, is astonishing. From coastal walks to high altitude traverses to gobsmacking scenic valley walks, the kiwis truly have it all.
On the North Island, the 43-km Tongariro Circuit is the standout, bringing you into the heart of Lord of the Rings’ Mordor-Country and alongside the real life ‘Mount Doom’, otherwise known as ‘Ngauruhoe’, not to mention a number of beautiful coves, beaches, volcanoes, desert landscapes and snowy peaks.

Running a close second is New Zealand’s answer to the Appalachian Trail, the Te Araroa hike from Cape Reinga to Bluff. This trail takes around four months in total and involves a crossing between the North and South Islands. Along the way you’ll encounter snow-capped peaks, huge dunes and sandy beaches, subtropical rainforests, alpine lakes, and a host of unique native flora and fauna.