Hiking

Hiking on a Sabbatical: big views and tired legs

Hiking can get you into wild places, and the best part is – you’ve only got yourself to thank for getting you there. Hiking is a great combination of nature and a pretty great workout. How about adding some of these to your sabbatical bucket list?

World-class hikes to plan a Sabbatical around

W Trek, Patagonia Chile
The kind of trail you’ll talk about for years. Towering peaks, turquoise lakes, hanging glaciers — the full drama. Expect unpredictable weather and book early — accommodations inside the park are limited and expensive. Further information on how to book will be shared soon.

Salkantay Trek, Peru
The quieter alternative to the Inca Trail. Snowy mountain passes, cloud forests, and a final arrival at Machu Picchu. Multi-day guided treks are easy to book and usually include porters and meals. Further information on how to book will be shared soon.

Acatenango Volcano, Guatemala
Steep, tough, and totally worth it. Camp near the summit and spend the night watching nearby Volcán de Fuego erupt under the stars. One of the most memorable (and slightly surreal) hikes in Central America.

Cotopaxi, Ecuador
A high-altitude challenge for those who want to feel what 5,000+ meters does to your lungs. You can hike to the refuge or attempt the summit with a certified guide. Dramatic landscapes and real Andean energy. Further information on how to book will be shared soon.

Dents du Midi Traverse, Switzerland
A Swiss classic that somehow still flies under the radar. Jagged ridgelines, alpine meadows, and postcard-perfect mountain huts.

Tour des Muverans, Switzerland
A quieter alternative to the Tour du Mont Blanc. Loop around the wild limestone peaks of the Muverans massif.

Triglav National Park, Slovenia
Slovenia’s highest peak and most iconic hike. Epic mountain views, alpine lakes, and rustic mountain huts. You’ll need a via ferrata set for the summit, or go with a guide.

Good preparation = great days

Even the most beautiful trail can turn into a bad day if you’re not prepared.
Before heading out:

• Check the weather — conditions can change fast
• Download offline maps (like AllTrails or Swisstopo in Switzerland)
• Pack enough water, snacks, and layers
• Know the route and your limits

No or little experience? Hire a guide — especially for remote or high-altitude treks. Many great guides are available via platforms like GetYourGuide, and it’s a smart way to stay safe and get more from the experience.