Check out the Five Best Backpacking Destinations for the Adventurous Traveller

Backpacking is one of the most life-changing decisions you can make. Walking on unfamiliar ground forces you to interact with cultures apart from your own. When you choose the right place to backpack, it becomes more than just a vacation, but a spiritual and educational experience – a good way to get to know the world as well as yourself.

Russia

A great place to go backpacking in Europe is the entire country of Russia. From either Moscow or St. Petersburg, which are great tourist destinations in their own right, you can access the famed Trans-Siberian Express. This passenger train system cuts across all of Russia. Along the way, the train’s railroads branch out to different parts of Russia as well as China, Mongolia, and other neighbouring countries – which only means more adventurous backpacking opportunities.

The World Cup showed Russia in a whole new light to many people. Whilst you’ll need to look into your visa carefully if you intend to do your own thing, Russia is still an awesome option.

Egypt

If you’re looking for a warmer backpacking experience, try Egypt. As with Russia, caveats apply, this time with regards safety. However, much of the country is fine and prices are cheap following the problems the country has had.

The Giza pyramid complex and the Valley of the Kings are just some of the hundreds of ancient sites to be found in this magnificent country. Take in a sunken ancient port city, revel in the unique rock formations on the Egyptian hiking trails, and try out some water sports at any one of the resorts next to the Gulf of Suez and the Red Sea. And you don’t have to do it while breaking the bank, as The Broke Backpacker claims Egypt can be a lot of fun whether you’re on a small or unlimited budget.

Philippines

This temperate archipelago in Southeast Asia is home to thousands of islands containing some of the most beautiful beaches on the planet. The Philippines’ RORO or roll-on roll-off ferry transport system makes it possible for any stalwart backpacker to explore many of the country’s more than 7,000 islands and islets. Relatively easy visa requirements await travellers who are ready to experience one of the most colourful cultures in Asia. Highlights include Palawan, Manilla and checking out the other-worldly tarsiers!

Nepal

With around 130 monuments to visit, Kathmandu Valley in Nepal is home to the highest density of world heritage sites in the world. Trekking to and from these sites also presents the unique opportunity to experience Nepal’s wide network of teahouses. Leave your tent and survival food at home, and instead opting to visit the teahouses for warm, home-cooked meals and Nepalese tea. Apart from that, Kathmandu Valley and the rest of Nepal feature some of the best natural mountain scenery you’ll ever experience in your life. And if you wanted a closer look…

The Himalayas

If you’re looking for something truly intense and one-of-a-kind, maybe you should consider climbing in the Himalayas. Just be prepared to spend big. Lottoland reports that the average cost of climbing the famed Mount Everest in the Himalayas, also known as the highest peak in the world, averages £75,500. Apart from Everest itself, which is at 8,848 metres above sea level, the Himalayas is reportedly home to over 50 mountains over 7,200 metres in elevation – 14 of which are 8,000-metre peaks. You don’t have to be a mountain climber to experience this astonishing wonder of nature, there are lots of hiking trails that will take you past the famous mountains.