For nature enthusiasts looking to describe a scenic place you want to visit, hiking locations offer excellent speaking material. This topic frequently appears in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2 cue cards.
Part 1: Introduction Questions
Common questions include:
- Do you enjoy outdoor activities?
- Have you ever been hiking?
- What’s your favorite season for outdoor activities?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’m quite passionate about outdoor pursuits, especially hiking. I try to go at least twice a month as it helps me maintain both physical and mental well-being. The best season for me is autumn when the weather is mild and the scenery is breathtaking with all the fall colors.”
Scenic mountain hiking trail with autumn foliage
Part 2: Cue Card
Talk about a scenic location in your country where people enjoy hiking
You should say:
- Where it is located
- What makes it special
- What activities people can do there
- And explain why you would recommend this place to others
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to tell you about Sa Pa, a breathtaking mountainous region in northern Vietnam that has become increasingly popular among hiking enthusiasts. This picturesque destination is situated approximately 350 kilometers northwest of Hanoi, nestled among the majestic Hoang Lien Son mountain range.
What makes Sa Pa truly exceptional is its dramatic landscape of cascading rice terraces, which have been carefully carved into the mountainsides over generations. These emerald-green terraces create an absolutely stunning vista that changes colors throughout the growing season, from reflecting pools of water in spring to golden waves of rice ready for harvest in autumn.
Beautiful rice terraces in Sapa with hikers
Visitors can engage in numerous activities, from challenging mountain treks to cultural immersion experiences with local ethnic minorities. The most popular trail leads to Mount Fansipan, Vietnam’s highest peak, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Additionally, travelers can explore traditional villages, interact with local communities, and photograph the spectacular landscape.
I would highly recommend this destination because it perfectly combines natural beauty with cultural experiences. The hospitality of the local people, particularly the Hmong and Red Dao communities, makes every visit truly memorable. Moreover, the varying difficulty levels of hiking trails mean that both seasoned trekkers and casual walkers can find suitable routes.”
[Similar to describe a memorable outdoor adventure, this location offers unique experiences for every visitor.]
Follow-up Questions:
- What’s the best time to visit this place?
- How has tourism affected this area?
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: How has hiking tourism impacted local communities in your country?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“The impact of hiking tourism has been two-fold. On the positive side, it has generated substantial income for local communities and raised awareness about environmental conservation. However, we’re also seeing some concerning effects such as cultural commercialization and environmental degradation in popular areas. It’s crucial to strike a balance between tourism development and preservation of local traditions.”
[For those interested in describe a country you would like to visit and why, similar considerations apply.]
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
- Breathtaking vista /ˈbreθteɪkɪŋ ˈvɪstə/ (n.) – an impressive view
- Cultural immersion /ˈkʌltʃərəl ɪˈmɜːʃən/ (n.) – complete involvement in a cultural experience
- Cascading /kæˈskeɪdɪŋ/ (adj.) – falling or flowing like a waterfall
- Picturesque /ˌpɪktʃəˈresk/ (adj.) – visually attractive, especially in a quaint way
Examiner’s Tips
- Use specific examples and personal experiences
- Include descriptive language and varied vocabulary
- Structure your response logically
- Practice speaking for exactly 2 minutes for Part 2
Remember to visit describe a place you go to for a day trip for more speaking practice materials.
