The Ten Ultimate Treks to do before you die

Our Top Ten Treks of the world, as decided by a number of our Exodus trekking experts, include some of the most famous, infamous and awe-inspiring treks this planet has to offer. Some you will know, others you may not, but all make a well-deserved appearance on our Top Ten. Prepare to be inspired:

1. Mont Blanc Circuit

The Mont Blanc Circuit is deservedly one of Europe's classic walks and one of the finest high level routes, not only in the Alps, but in the world. Popular with alpine enthusiasts since the late 18th century, this trek traverses several deep glacial valleys, as it winds its way through France, Switzerland and Italy, giving outstanding views of Mont Blanc en-route (Trip code: TWB).

Difficulty Rating: Moderate/Strenuous

2. Lycian Way

The Lycian Way is Turkey's first designated long distance footpath and while not the most famous of treks, it is a truly remarkable and under-appreciated treat. This trip snakes its way along the Mediterranean's most dramatic coastline to the limestone peaks of Mount Olympus, which soar high above the glittering turquoise sea. Passing ancient ruins and sunken cities, through cool, wooded valleys and along spectacular cliff tops over looking deserted beaches, the trail has it all (Trip code: TTL).

Difficulty Rating: Moderate/Strenuous

3. Pyrenees: The GR10

The Grand Randonee (GR) 10 is a Trans Pyrenean long distance path that runs from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean. The central 200km section, from Gourette in the west to Bagneres de Luchon in the east, is arguably the most attractive part of the route. Easily achievable over a fortnight, the route takes in the awesome Cirque de Gavanerie as well as the crystal lakes of the Neouville National Park (Trip code: TWR).

Difficulty Rating: Strenuous

4. Mt Toubkal Climb

Mt Toubkal, at 4167m above sea level, is North Africa's highest peak and like some of our other choices is perhaps a less obvious selection. However from the summit the plains of Marrakech roll away to the north, the Anti Atlas mountains to the south, whilst to the east and west the jagged tooth-like peaks of the High Atlas complete the panoramic views. En route to the summit, the trail passes through remote Berber villages, unchanged in centuries, giving a fascinating insight into a bygone way of life. This trek dservedly makes it to number four (Trip code: TMM).

Difficulty Rating: Strenuous

5. Kilimanjaro Climb

More famous perhaps than its Moroccan cousin, no list of ultimate treks would be complete without mentioning Kili. From the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro it is possible to see the curvature of the planet with the naked eye. Rising from the lush forests of the surrounding plains, this glacier capped volcano reaches up three miles (or 5895m) into the earth's stratosphere, creating the highest point on the African continent. For an off-the-beaten track climb choose the Rongai or Shira routes to avoid the crowds (Trip code: TYW).

Difficulty Rating: Strenuous/Tough

6. Everest Base Camp

The Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful countries in the world. At its heart lies the mighty Mount Everest, the highest point on the Earth's surface. Whilst the summit maybe the preserve of the mountaineer, the route to Base Camp is within reach of the experienced trekker. Following the classic route through the Sherpa heartland, and following in the footsteps of the great climbing parties, this is perhaps the greatest trek of them all (Trip code: TNT).

Difficulty Rating: Strenuous

7. Concordia & K2 - Trip is currently not operating for 2010 season

To the mountain connoisseur, Concordia offers the most spectacular high mountain scenery imaginable. Nestling between the Baltoro and Godwin Austen glaciers, and encircled by an astounding number of peaks including K2, the world's second highest peak, it is easy to see why this is called 'the throne room of the Gods'. This classic among trekking routes is exceptionally wild and remote, however the rewards to those who take on the challenge are immeasurable (Trip code: THC).

Difficulty Rating: Tough

8. The Inca Trail

The Inca Trail is easily the most famous trek in South America and a 'must' for any walker. Constructed as an ancient highway linking the Inca capital of Cuzco with the lost city of Machu Picchu, it has been restored to its original glory. Although Machu Picchu is the ultimate goal, the trail passes through a wonderful mountain landscape of cloud forest and snow-capped Andean peaks (Trip code: TPT).

Difficulty Rating: Moderate

9. Huayhuash Circuit

This is a trek for a true walking enthusiast, prepared to undertake a physical challenge. Following a dramatic high altitude circuit through the Andes, the trek visits the valley made famous by Joe Simpson in his epic story, 'Touching the Void'. With its steep and richly glaciated peaks, including Peru's second highest Yerupaja, at 6634m, the Huayhuash is perhaps the most magnificent range in all the Peruvian Andes (Trip code: TPH).

Difficulty Rating: Strenuous

10. Fitzroy & Paine

This is an adventurous trek among the breathtaking peaks on the Continental Ice-cap at the 'Uttermost Part of the Earth'. Lying just east of the third largest ice mass in the world, this powerful sculpting force, in collusion with the violent action of plate tectonics, has created a landscape of jagged mountains, spectacular glaciers and glittering lakes. A truly stunning trek through the wilds of Patagonia (Trip code: TAF).

Difficulty Rating: Strenuous