10 Most Instagrammable Hiking Spots Around the World
Hiking has evolved into more than an outdoor excursion. For many, it’s about freezing catalogs of stunning moments and sharing the wonders of nature with the world.
With Instagram on the rise, hikers and travelers are always chasing after trails that push their endurance, but also grant picture-perfect views.
From breathtaking mountain peaks to breathtaking coastal cliffs, this guide covers ten of the most Instagrammable hiking places globally that combine natural beauty with unsurpassed photo opportunities.
1. Trolltunga, Norway
Trolltunga is one of the most iconic hikes in Norway and for good reason.
The dramatic rock formation juts out over Lake Ringedalsvatnet, providing a photo opportunity set against a backdrop of deep fjords and snowy mountains.
The hike to Trolltunga is strenuous — it’s 17 miles round trip — but the views rewarded every step.
The trail leads hikers through lush meadows, cascading waterfalls, and rocky terrain.
The ideal time to visit the trail is between June and September, when it is snow-free.
Start early to beat the crowds and see the sunrise glimmering over the fjord, creating an otherworldly golden glow.
2. Patagonia, Argentina — Mount Fitz Roy
Mount Fitz Roy, in Patagonia’s Los Glaciares National Park, is a must-see for photographers and adventurers.
The craggy spires of Fitz Roy tower above blue glacial lakes, forming a surreal scene that seems plucked from a painting.
The most popular hike is the Laguna de los Tres trail, which offers panoramic views of the mountain and its surrounding glaciers.
The one-way ascent is moderately strenuous and approximately 8 hours round trip.
The sunrise at Mount Fitz Roy is especially breathtaking, as the first light of the day paints the peaks a shade of firey orange you’ll never forget.
3. Haiku Stairs, Oahu, Hawaii
The Haiku Stairs in Oahu, nicknamed as the “Stairway to Heaven,” is one of the most exciting hiking experiences one could ever have in the world.
This steep trail is 3,922 steps that follow along the ridgeline of the Ko’olau Mountains.
Once at the top, the views will absolutely thrill you — a sweeping vista of the island’s verdant valleys, ocean, and jagged cliffs.
Although the trail is technically closed to the public for safety reasons, it is legendary and one of the most photographed places on Instagram.
If you can’t hike the stairs, nearby legal trails still provide great views of this iconic landmark.
4. The Wave, Arizona, USA
The Wave is a geological site found on the ground of the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument in Arizona.
Its colorful undulating sandstone formations and the shades of red that appear in the rock bed make it one of the most photogenic landscapes on Earth.
At The Wave, access is highly regulated, with only 20 permits available per day as part of a lottery system.
The hike itself is a 6-mile round trip through square or rectangular patches of rugged desert terrain and unmarked, so good navigational skills are required.
Golden hour at sunrise and sunset is a perfect time to visit, as the light brings out the unique striations and colors of the sandstone.
5. Torres del Paine, Chile
Torres del Paine National Park in Chile is an Instagrammable mecca of hiking trails.
The most popular hike is the Base of the Towers trek, leading to the foot of three granite peaks surrounded by a turquoise glacial lake.
The trail is approximately 11 miles round trip and moderately difficult, with the last stretch being the most strenuous.
En route, you’ll pass by pristine rivers, lush forests, and sweeping vistas of the Patagonian terrain.
Photographers should never miss this moment as the towers get reflected in the lake during sunrise.
6. The Inca Trail, Peru
It’s a bucket-list destination for travelers and hikers alike.
This time-old trail meanders across the Andes and past incredible scenery, archaeological sites, and rich cloud forests.
The trail ends at the Sun Gate, which gives a magnificent view of Machu Picchu.
The 26-mile hike usually takes four days to do in full and permits need to be booked far in advance.
With its combination of historic ruins and jaw-dropping natural scenery, the Inca Trail is one of the most Instagrammable hikes in the world.
The best photos can be taken at sunrise, when the ruins of Machu Picchu are lit with golden light.
7. Cinque Terre, Italy
The charm of the Cinque Terre coastal trail is twofold: natural and cultural.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site comprises five colorful villages set in the cliffs above the Ligurian Sea.
Hiking trails link each village, providing breathtaking views of terraced vineyards, colorful houses and the glittering sea.
The Sentiero Azzurro trail is the most traversed route, but several other paths are available for those looking for more tranquil, if more challenging, experiences.
The golden hour is the best time to photograph a village lined with water, which glows warm under the setting sun as if it’s straight out of a postcard.
8. The Dolomites, Italy
The Dolomites of northern Italy are an outdoor and photography paradise.
With jagged peaks, grassy meadows and adorable alpine cabins, the mountainous region is packed full of insta-worthy backdrops.
One of the most iconic hikes in Dolomites is the Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop, which offers sweeping views of the region’s famed trio of peaks.
The trail is fairly gentle as well, taking 4 hours to complete, and is suitable for even the most novice hiker.
The loveliest light for photographing the Dolomites, while its dramatic peaks are illuminated, bathes the region at sunrise and sunset.
9. Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
This beautiful national park in Croatia is a dream come true for nature lovers and photographers as well.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its cascading waterfalls, clear lakes as well as lush greenery.
Wooden walkways snake through the park, which features a series of interlinked lakes and falls.
Incredibly shades of turquoise and emerald, the water is vivid and photograph friendly!
The best times to visit the park are in spring or autumn when the crowds are less and the natural colors are at their most vivid.
10. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
When it comes to adventure, Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa, is on many traveler’s bucket-list along with photography.
The hike to the peak passes through five different ecosystems: lush rainforests to desolate alpine deserts.
The last push to Uhuru Peak boasts a spectacular view of the sun rising over the African plains — one of those moments that’s as breathtaking as it is Instagrammable.
It usually takes around 6-9 days depending on the route taken and requires a decent level of fitness and preparation.
Along the way you’ll find countless photo-ops worth capturing — the journey can be as rewarding of a destination as the destination itself.
Final Thoughts
A testament to the beauty of our planet, these ten hiking destinations are as much a feast for the eyes as they are for the senses.
From the stunning views and unique vista points to cultural landmarks, each trail is perfect Instagram material for your next adventure.
Whether you’re in search of the perfect shot or just taking in the natural wonders around you, these hiking spots guarantee memories and photos that will carry you through a lifetime.
