Frequently asked questions

About the project

What is HiKingsRome?

HiKingsRome is a free, non-profit hiking community based in Rome. We bring together a diverse group of people who share a passion for the outdoors — local residents, expats, and international visitors alike. Our hikes explore the natural landscapes surrounding Rome: volcanic lakes, medieval hill towns, ancient consular roads, and forested ridges, all within about an hour from the city.

Who can join?

Anyone is welcome. While we particularly enjoy connecting with Erasmus students and international residents curious about the Italian countryside, there is no requirement to be a student or to live in Rome permanently. The only prerequisite is a genuine interest in hiking and a willingness to be part of a group.

Why should I hike with you?

• Discover real landscapes. Lush forests, volcanic lakes, Etruscan ruins, and sweeping panoramas over Rome — all well off the tourist trail.
• Meet genuine people. A small, friendly group united by a love of the outdoors. A great way to build real connections in Rome.
• Stay active. Hikes range from easy walks to demanding ridge climbs, so there is always something suitable for your level.
• Cultural exchange. With participants from many countries, every hike is also a chance to share perspectives and practise languages.
• No cost, no hassle. Hikes are free. The only shared expense is transport.

How it works

How are the hikes organised?

We publish upcoming hike dates on this website. Full details — meeting point, route, difficulty, what to bring — are shared in our Telegram group ahead of each outing. Everything is coordinated there, from carpooling arrangements to last-minute updates.

How do I join a hike?

Just join our Telegram group. Once you're in, you'll see the details for each upcoming hike and a sign-up poll. Select the dates you're interested in and the rest unfolds there — carpooling, meeting points, and any questions you might have. That's it.

Join the Telegram group

How much does it cost?

Hikes are completely free. The only costs are transport-related: fuel and motorway tolls, split equally among all participants in each car. We use carpooling as our default mode of travel — it keeps costs low and reduces environmental impact. The exact contribution per person depends on the destination and the number of people sharing each car, and is always agreed transparently within the group.

How do we get to the trailhead?

By car, using carpooling. Drivers and passengers are matched through the Telegram group before each hike. If you don't have a car, there will almost always be a seat available — just let the group know. All trailheads are within roughly an hour's drive from central Rome.

What language do you speak on the hikes?

English is our common language, given the international nature of the group. This ensures everyone can communicate and feel included, whatever their native tongue. Italian speakers are of course welcome to use Italian among themselves — the trails don't mind either way.

Trails & difficulty

How does the difficulty scale work?

Each hike is labelled with one of five levels so you always know what to expect before you sign up.

Very easy	Flat terrain, minimal effort. Perfect for beginners and casual walkers.
Easy	Mostly flat with clear paths. Suitable for everyone.
Moderate	Some inclines and varied terrain. Good for those with basic experience.
Intermediate	Steeper climbs, uneven ground, or longer distances.
Challenging	Technical terrain, steep ascents, and potential natural obstacles.

Telegram

Why do you use Telegram?

Telegram lets us communicate without exchanging personal phone numbers. You interact using a username, so your number stays private. It also handles group polls, file sharing, and real-time updates cleanly — everything we need to organise a hike efficiently. It's free, works on any device, and doesn't require a local SIM card, which matters for international participants.

Do I need to share my phone number to join?

No. Telegram only requires a phone number to create your account, but other members of the group will only see your chosen username — not your number. You are in full control of what personal information you share.