Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Forest trekking is an exhilarating journey into the heart of nature, where dense foliage, winding trails, and the calls of wildlife create an immersive adventure. Unlike traditional hikes, trekking through forests offers a deeper connection with the environment, towering trees, hidden waterfalls, and encounters with rare species make every step thrilling. Whether navigating ancient rainforests, scaling misty peaks, or crossing untamed wilderness, forest treks challenge the body and refresh the soul. From the Amazon’s biodiversity to the mystical trails of Jirisan, each forest holds secrets waiting to be discovered. Prepare for an unforgettable escape into the wild.
Top 10 Places For Forest Trekking Around The World
Here is the list of the top 10 places for forest trekking around the world:
1. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda
Photo: Giles Laurent / Wikimedia Commons
Nestled in southwestern Uganda, the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its thick vegetation and incredible biodiversity. This ancient rainforest is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it one of the best places for gorilla trekking. The trek itself is challenging, involving steep climbs, muddy trails, and dense jungle. However, the reward of witnessing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is unparalleled. Apart from gorillas, the forest houses over 350 bird species, rare butterflies, and several other primates, offering nature lovers a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.
Location: Southwestern Uganda, on the edge of the Albertine Rift
Best Time To Visit: June to September
2. Milford Track, New Zealand
Photo: AlasdairW / Wikimedia Commons
Dubbed “The Finest Walk in the World,” the Milford Track is a spectacular 53.5-kilometer hiking trail that runs through the heart of New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park. This breathtaking trek takes hikers through lush rainforests, crystal-clear rivers, and across towering suspension bridges. One of the highlights of the trek is Sutherland Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in New Zealand. The journey culminates at the world-famous Milford Sound, a fjord known for its dramatic cliffs and misty peaks. Due to its popularity, access to the track is regulated, and bookings for huts must be made well in advance.
Location: Fiordland National Park, South Island, New Zealand
Best Time To Visit: October to April
3. Annapurna Circuit, Nepal
Photo: Anna Stavenskaya / Wikimedia Commons
The Annapurna Circuit is one of the most famous treks in the world, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks and an unparalleled mix of cultural and natural experiences. The trek ranges between 160 to 230 kilometres depending on the route taken, and it typically takes 15–20 days to complete. Trekkers pass through diverse landscapes, from lush green valleys to arid high-altitude deserts, culminating in the challenging ascent of the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. Along the way, hikers will encounter traditional Tibetan-style villages, ancient Buddhist monasteries, and vibrant local markets, providing a rich cultural experience.
Location: Central Nepal, within the Annapurna mountain range
Best Time To Visit: September to November
4. Great Canara Trail, India
Photo: shankar s / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Stretching over 270 kilometres through the Western Ghats, the Great Canara Trail is India’s longest forest trekking route. This spectacular trek takes adventurers through thick rainforests, rolling grasslands, and serene river valleys. The region is known for its incredible biodiversity, including elephants, leopards, and endemic bird species. Trekking the entire route takes around 25 days, but shorter sections can also be explored. The trail passes through national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, offering trekkers a rare glimpse into untouched wilderness. The Great Canara Trail is perfect for those seeking an offbeat and immersive jungle trekking experience in India.
Location: Western Ghats, Karnataka, India
Best Time To Visit: October to February
5. Khao Sok National Park, Thailand
Photo: Velatrix / Wikimedia Commons
Khao Sok National Park is home to one of the oldest rainforests in the world, dating back over 160 million years. Located in southern Thailand, this lush jungle is filled with towering limestone karsts, deep caves, and hidden waterfalls. Trekkers can explore dense tropical forests, encounter rare wildlife such as elephants and gibbons, and even take part in night safaris. One of the park’s highlights is the stunning Cheow Lan Lake, where visitors can stay in floating raft houses and enjoy breathtaking views of the emerald-green waters. Jungle trekking can be combined with canoeing, cave exploration, and wildlife spotting.
Location: Southern Thailand, Surat Thani Province
Best Time To Visit: November to April
6. Daintree Rainforest, Australia
Photo: Bob Linsdell / Wikimedia Commons
The Daintree Rainforest, located in Far North Queensland, is the world’s oldest tropical rainforest, dating back over 180 million years. This lush jungle is home to some of the most unique flora and fauna on Earth, including cassowaries, tree kangaroos, and saltwater crocodiles. Trekking through this ancient ecosystem allows visitors to explore stunning landscapes, from dense mangroves to pristine rivers and coastal beaches. Guided treks provide insights into the region’s Aboriginal heritage, particularly of the Kuku Yalanji people. The rainforest’s diverse trails lead to scenic lookouts, cascading waterfalls, and hidden swimming holes, offering an unforgettable trekking experience.
Location: Far North Queensland, Australia
Best Time To Visit: May to September
7. Pacific Northwest Trail, USA
Photo: BLM Oregon & Washington / Wikimedia Commons
The Pacific Northwest Trail (PNT) is a long-distance trek stretching 1,930 kilometers from the Rocky Mountains in Montana to the coastline of Washington. This challenging trail crosses three U.S. states and seven national forests, providing trekkers with an incredible variety of landscapes, including temperate rainforests, alpine meadows, and rugged coastline. Highlights of the route include the stunning vistas of Glacier National Park, the remote beauty of the Selkirk Mountains, and the misty rainforests of the Olympic Peninsula. The PNT is a true backcountry experience, requiring navigational skills and wilderness survival knowledge, making it an ideal adventure for experienced hikers.
Location: Montana, Idaho, and Washington, USA
Best Time To Visit: June to September
8. Borneo Rainforest, Malaysia & Indonesia
Photo: Dukeabruzzi / Wikimedia Commons
The Borneo Rainforest is one of the world’s oldest and most biologically diverse ecosystems, dating back over 140 million years. Covering parts of Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei, this vast jungle is home to extraordinary wildlife, including orangutans, pygmy elephants, and the world’s largest flower, the Rafflesia. Popular trekking destinations include Sabah’s Danum Valley, the Maliau Basin (nicknamed the “Lost World”), and Gunung Mulu National Park, known for its massive limestone cave systems. The terrain is humid and rugged, with thick foliage and steep inclines, making it ideal for seasoned trekkers seeking an immersive and adventurous jungle experience.
Location: Borneo Island, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei
Best Time To Visit: March to October
9. Amazon Rainforest, Peru & Brazil
Photo: Alexey Yakovlev / Wikimedia Commons
Trekking through the Amazon Rainforest offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the largest and most biodiverse tropical rainforest on Earth. Stretching across several South American countries, the Amazon is home to exotic wildlife, including jaguars, pink river dolphins, macaws, and thousands of insect species. Trekkers can venture deep into the jungle on multi-day expeditions, with popular entry points in Peru’s Manu National Park and Brazil’s Anavilhanas National Park. Jungle treks are typically guided, ensuring safe navigation through the dense foliage. Activities like night treks, canoeing through flooded forests, and cultural exchanges with indigenous tribes add to the adventure.
Location: Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, and other South American countries
Best Time To Visit: May to September
10. Jirisan National Park, South Korea
Photo: Shamus7792003 / Wikimedia Commons
Jirisan National Park, South Korea’s largest and oldest national park, offers an extraordinary trekking experience through misty forests, rolling valleys, and sacred Buddhist temples. The park spans three provinces and is home to the 274-kilometer Jirisan Trail. One of the main attractions is Cheonwangbong Peak (1,915m), the highest peak in mainland South Korea, which rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramic views. The park is famous for its stunning autumn foliage, spring cherry blossoms, and diverse wildlife, including Asiatic black bears. Well-marked trails, mountain shelters, and serene landscapes make Jirisan a must-visit trekking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Location: Southern South Korea, in the provinces of Jeollanam-do
Best Time To Visit: September to November
Forest trekking is more than just a physical challenge,it’s an exploration of Earth’s most pristine landscapes. The rustling leaves, distant animal calls, and the scent of damp earth remind us of nature’s raw beauty and importance. Every trek tells a story, whether it’s an encounter with a rare creature or a sunrise from a remote peak. Beyond adventure, these trails foster respect for the wilderness, inspiring conservation and appreciation. As you leave footprints in these ancient forests and make memories that last a lifetime. So don’t wait get ready for your next adventure with TripXL.
Cover Photo: jackmac34 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
