Embarking on a walking holiday is undoubtedly a great way to explore the world, however it also provides a unique opportunity to journey into the past and explore a destination's cultural legacy. At KE, we offer a variety of trekking experiences that provide a mixture of stunning scenery and rich historical value. Explore six of the world's most culturally and historically significant treks in the article below.

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a remarkable historical trek that allows you to follow in the footsteps of the ancient Inca civilisation. This iconic trail in Peru takes you through a stunning blend of archaeological wonders, lush landscapes and Andean culture. As you hike along the original Inca road system, you'll pass through well-preserved ruins, including the renowned Machu Picchu, which was once an Inca citadel. This trek not only offers breathtaking natural beauty but also provides a profound connection to the rich history and heritage of the Inca people.

The Camino de Santiago is a remarkable historical trek that takes walkers on a journey through time and culture. This iconic route has been travelled for over a thousand years, with its origins dating back to the 9th century. The trail was established as a Christian pilgrimage to the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral in Galicia, Spain and is considered one of the holiest pilgrimages in world. Pilgrims are now joined by explorers from around the world, captivated by the fascinating history of the route. You can expect footpaths that weave their way throughout the most beautiful landscapes of Spain and neighbouring countries and you'll share friendly encounters with fellow pilgrims walking the Camino. 

The Via Ferrata in the Dolomites is not only an exhilarating adventure but also a historical trek that allows you to follow in the footsteps of mountaineers from the past. These iron routes were originally established during World War I to aid troops in navigating the challenging mountain terrain. Hikers can now traverse these paths, often fitted with ladders, cables and bridges, while gaining insight into the historical significance of the Dolomites during the war. The Via Ferrata experience not only provides an adrenaline rush but also a profound connection to the region's unique history.

The ‘Chemin de la Liberte', or Walk to Freedom was the toughest of several escape routes across the Pyrenees during World War II. Running from Saint-Girons in the Ariege district of France to near the village of Isil in Spain, it has been an official way-marked walk since 1994 and can be completed as a challenging 4 day hike. This trek becomes a powerful way to connect with and honour the struggles of those who embarked on this challenging path to freedom.

Follow in the footsteps of Emperors, Romans and Clergymen on this trek through history along the Via Francigena, a centuries-old pilgrim route that has been followed by travellers for generations. This leg of the pilgrimage leads you from the picturesque town of Montefiascone to the eternal city of Rome, offering a remarkable opportunity to trace the footsteps of countless pilgrims and explorers who have traversed this path over the ages. As you follow the Via Francigena, you'll encounter a wealth of historical and cultural treasures, from ancient Roman ruins to charming medieval villages.

The Nakasendo Trail and Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage are two historic routes in Japan, rich in cultural and spiritual significance. The Nakasendo, meaning "Central Mountain Route," connected Kyoto and Edo (modern Tokyo) during the Edo period, winding through scenic mountains, forests, and preserved post towns like Magome and Tsumago. Travelers today walk it to experience Japan’s feudal-era atmosphere. The Kumano Kodo, a network of sacred trails in the Kii Peninsula, has been used for over a thousand years by pilgrims visiting the revered Kumano Sanzan shrines. Both trails offer deep immersion into Japan’s history, nature and enduring spiritual traditions.