Malta Hiking & Trekking Guide 2025
Explore the best hiking trails and trekking routes in Malta.
Malta is a sun-soaked Mediterranean archipelago between Sicily and North Africa, renowned for its ancient fortified cities, crystal-clear waters, and 7,000 years of history. This UNESCO World Heritage jewel blends baroque architecture, prehistoric temples, and vibrant coastal life into one of Europe's most captivating destinations.
Top Hiking Trails
The best hikes Malta has to offer.
Dingli Cliffs Coastal Path
easyA scenic clifftop walk along Malta's highest point at 253 metres, offering dramatic views over the Mediterranean and the tiny island of Filfla. The path runs past the medieval Magdalene Chapel with open countryside on one side and sheer limestone cliffs on the other.
Victoria Lines Walk
moderateA long-distance walk along the 19th-century British defensive fortification wall stretching across the entire width of Malta. The route traverses ridges with panoramic views over the entire island from north to south.
Marfa Ridge to Ras il-Qammieħ
easyA coastal ridge walk in Malta's far north with stunning views across to Comino and Gozo. The trail passes the Red Tower (St. Agatha's Tower) and continues to dramatic clifftop viewpoints.
Wied Babu Gorge to Ghar Lapsi
moderateA valley walk through one of Malta's prettiest rural gorges with terraced fields, dry stone walls, and ancient carob trees. The trail descends to the secluded swimming cove of Ghar Lapsi.
Gozo Coastal Walk: Xlendi to Dwejra
moderateA stunning coastal walk on Gozo's southern and western cliffs, passing dramatic rock formations and remote bays. The route ends at the geologically dramatic Dwejra Bay and Blue Hole diving site.
Wied il-Ghasri Gorge Descent, Gozo
moderateA dramatic descent through a narrow gorge carved into Gozo's cliffs, ending at a tiny pebble beach and crystal-clear swimming cove. The gorge walls tower above and the turquoise sea glows at the bottom.
Buskett Woodland to Verdala Palace
easyMalta's only woodland area provides rare shade for walking, with ancient olive groves and Mediterranean scrub surrounding the Verdala Palace hunting lodge. Excellent for birdwatching during migration seasons.
Trails by Difficulty
Find trails that match your fitness level.
π’ Easy
Flat or gently undulating terrain suitable for all fitness levels, including families with children. Dingli Cliffs and Marfa Ridge fall in this category.
π‘ Moderate
Some ascent and descent on uneven paths, suitable for reasonably fit walkers with good footwear. Victoria Lines Walk and Gozo coastal routes.
π Challenging
Steep sections, scrambling, or long distances requiring good fitness and navigation skills. Limited options on the small islands.
π΄ Expert
Technical routes requiring specialist equipment β not typically available in Malta; most challenging terrain is the Gozo coastal cliffs.
Complete Hiking Guide
Detailed trail descriptions, packing checklists, and route recommendations.
Hiking Preparation
What to bring and how to prepare.
Essential Gear
Day Hikes
- Sturdy hiking boots/shoes
- Plenty of water (2-3 liters)
- Snacks and lunch
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
- Rain layer/jacket
- First aid kit
- Navigation (map, GPS, phone)
- Flashlight/headlamp
Multi-Day Treks
- All day hike essentials plus:
- Backpack (40-60L)
- Tent or shelter
- Sleeping bag and pad
- Cooking equipment
- Water purification
- Extra clothing layers
- Emergency supplies
Physical Preparation
- Start training weeks before challenging hikes
- Build up endurance with regular cardio
- Practice on local trails with elevation gain
- Break in new boots before the trip
- Acclimatize to altitude gradually if needed
Hiking Safety
Stay safe on the trails.
Always tell someone your hiking plans and expected return time. Carry emergency communication device in remote areas.
Check weather conditions before setting out. Turn back if conditions deteriorate. Never underestimate mountains.
Stay on marked trails. Getting lost in unfamiliar terrain can be dangerous. Carry navigation tools.
Be aware of wildlife. Research local animals and know how to respond to encounters.
Start early to allow plenty of daylight. Always aim to be back before dark.
Local Hazards
- Extreme sun exposure May-September: UV index regularly exceeds 8, wear SPF50+ and a hat
- Dehydration: very little shade on most Maltese trails, carry minimum 2 litres water in summer
- Loose limestone: cliff edge paths can have unstable rock, stay on marked routes
- No marked trails: Malta lacks formal waymarked hiking trails, download GPS routes or use the Malta Hiking app
- Hunting season: October-January hunters active in rural areas, stay on paths and wear bright colors
Best Time to Hike
Plan your hiking adventure for optimal conditions.
πΈ Spring
March-May is the best hiking season with wildflowers in bloom, mild temperatures of 15-22Β°C, and green countryside. Spring migration birds add to the experience.
βοΈ Summer
June-August trails are very hot (30-35Β°C+) with minimal shade. Early morning starts (before 8am) essential; carry at least 2 litres of water.
π Fall
September-November excellent conditions as temperatures cool to 18-25Β°C. Sea still warm for post-hike swims; fewer flowers but pleasant walking.
βοΈ Winter
December-February mild at 10-16Β°C with occasional rain. Trails can be muddy, some coastal paths slippery. Good light for photography and comfortable temperatures.
Explore Malta's Trails
Get our complete hiking guide with GPS routes, difficulty ratings, and local tips.
Download Hiking Guide