There’ll come a time when you’ll want to include something more adventurous on your travels and the best climbing mountains may just be the bold and fearless choice for this.
You’ll need the stamina, technical skills and affinity to heights to scale the more demanding peaks. However, the struggle is worth it as you’ll get to experience mind-blowing scenery, astonishing sunrise views at the summits, and a sense of achievement that no other adventure can provide. If you are considering mountain climbing as part of your next trip, here are ten of the best climbing mountains around the world.
1. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
The tallest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro is not steep and doesn’t require very much technical skill, but does demand a tremendous amount of energy and patience as it is a long hike. You’ll have a choice of routes that have their advantages and disadvantages. The lower slopes are grassy and muddy while you’ll find the summit snow-white and cold. The elevation of Mt. Kilimanjaro is 5,895m (19,341 ft). You should avoid the months of April, May, and December to skip the rains. Have time on hand as the average duration of the climb to Mt. Kilimanjaro’s summit is 7-9 days.
2. Denali, Alaska
Denali, situated in south-central Alaska, is the highest mountain in North America. Its massive expanse and beauty have attracted climbers from around the globe for decades. However, the soothing vision of the summit comes with a price. Climbers with the correct physical condition and training have been successful in scaling its height of 20,310 feet (6,190 m). Denali asks for the ability to walk on snow, glacier travel, and self-arrest. If you possess these skills, the Mt Denali climb is going to be a lifetime adventure for you.
3. Mount Stetind, Norway
Mount Stetind, Norway’s national mountain, is the most awkward climb on this list. Its obelisk shape, although a treat to the eye, is a challenge to even seasoned climbers. The hurdle that Mount Stetind presents is evident from the fact that famous British climber William Cecil Slingsby couldn’t reach its 1,392-meter high summit. The best time to win Mount Stetind is from June to September. The East Wall route will give you the best chance to scale its heights. For pro climbers, the average time to climb the mountain is 12 hours.
4. Mount Toubkal, Morocco
The tallest mountain in North Africa, Mt. Toubkal is exceptionally rocky and challenging for climbers. Moreover, Toubkal is covered with snow in winter and dust in summer. Climbers start their journey through local villages, with South Cirque being the most famous route. Although Mt. Toubkal’s elevation is 4,167 m (13,671 ft), you need proper mountaineering experience to tolerate the challenging and somewhat hostile environment. It is best to plan your expedition between June and October to avoid snowfall.
5. Mount Aconcagua, Argentina
Aconcagua is the second tallest of the famed 7 Summits. Its 6,961-meter elevation is demanding, but the routes to the peak are not technically challenging. However, the extremely high altitude and rough weather make the ascent tough for even the most experienced climbers. But if you are physically fit and have some experience camping and trekking in isolated areas, you need not fear. December and January are the preferred months to trek Mount Aconcagua.
6. Table Mountain, South Africa
Table Mountain’s – to keep things local – of its kind topography has earned it the fame of being South Africa’s most iconic gem, with the stunning cliffs of Table Mountain located between Devil’s Peak and Lion’s Head. The distinctive mountain has an elevation of 1,085 m (3,558 ft) and is ideal for general travellers who are unwilling to climb steep and challenging peaks. You can trek Table Mountain between March and September when the weather remains comfortable. Climb early morning to avoid fog as well as large crowds, and remember that you always have the choice of climbing up, and taking the cablecar down
7. Mount Fuji, Japan
Situated only 60 miles from Tokyo, Mount Fuji in Japan is an iconic symbol of the country’s natural beauty. A cone-shaped volcano that mesmerises visitors with its appearance, it is understood to be one of the most photographed peaks in the world. The tallest peak in Japan at a height of 3776 meters, Mount Fuji is a UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Site, and it is a revered sacred mountain according to Japan’s Shinto tradition.
8. Kala Patthar, Nepal
For those who have not been able to gather the courage to scale the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest, but want to have a close view of it, Kala Patthar in Nepal is your best bet. The mountain offers breathtaking views of Mount Everest from a safe and more reachable place. Photographers will love the hike as it gives an excellent opportunity to capture the impressive vistas. That said, Kala Patthar is still 5,645 meters high and is not an easy climb. Plan your trek between March and May to avoid monsoon season, freezing temperatures, and landslides. Preparation is critical.
9. Mount Fitz Roy, Argentina
The picturesque mountain located in El Chalten Argentina is full of challenges and is suited to the most advanced climbers. It has a glacier near its base, which is on the verge of extinction due to global warming. The mountain is locally known as ‘Cerro Chaltén,’ meaning ‘smoking mountain,’ as its peak is often covered in clouds. It is advisable to trek the 3,359-meter high peak between December and February. Climbers should be prepared for surprises on the hike, including unpredictable weather and the occasional earthquake.
10. Mount Kenya, Kenya
If Mount Kilimanjaro is too mainstream and you’d prefer the adventure of trekking in a more remote atmosphere, then Mount Kenya should be your choice. The mountain is Africa’s second tallest and offers breathtaking scenery that every climber would love. The hike requires excellent fitness levels and stamina though. You can proceed without any technical climbing experience, but be ready to cope with the weather. Avoid the months of April, May, and June as the heat is extreme during this time.
Climbing a mountain is unlike other travel experiences. It tests your patience, fitness, and stamina while offering a thrilling sense of adventure. The above mountains will challenge your physical and mental limits and provide you with confidence and a new perspective of these wonderful parts of the world.
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