The allure of earth’s magnificent peaks and stunning mountain ranges has long captivated curious travelers. The blend of adventure, natural splendor, cultural experiences and yes, danger, are like a siren song for people keen on peak travel. From snow-capped summits to the rocky peaks of the Italian Dolomites, gear up for your next adventurous elevacation with our top 10 peak travel mountain destinations.
Peak Travel: 10 epic mountain destinations to explore around the world
Dolomite Peaks, Italy
The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Italy, are renowned for their dramatic limestone formations and diverse outdoor activities. Peaks like Tre Cime di Lavaredo and Marmolada (3,343 meters) attract climbers and hikers from around the world.
The region’s extensive Via Ferrata routes, historical remnants of World War I, offer unique climbing experiences for every level of climber. Visitors can also explore charming alpine villages and towns like Cortina d’Ampezzo, and indulge in traditional Italian and Ladin cuisine.
Matterhorn, Switzerland
It’s not the tallest peak in this alpine nation (that’s the Dufourspitze), but Switzerland’s iconic, pyramidal-shaped Matterhorn (4,478 meters) is instantly recognizable to anyone who sees it, or has enjoyed a Toblerone chocolate bar.
Located near the pedestrian-only alpine village of Zermatt, the Matterhorn is one of the most photographed mountains globally. Take the Gornergrat Cog Railway up the lookout for unparalleled views of this majestic peak, as well many other 4,000 metre+ peaks in this range.
Adventurers can tackle tricky mountaineering routes to the summit, while non-climbers can enjoy skiing in winter, and scenic hiking trains in summer.
Denali, Alaska, USA
The giant of the north, Denali (6,190 meters) is North America’s tallest mountain and utterly dominates Alaska’s wilderness. This immense mountain peak offers dramatic landscapes, challenging climbs, and the opportunity to witness diverse wildlife such as grizzly bears and moose.
Denali is more than a mountain, it’s a National Park with six million acres of wilderness. Popular with mountaineers, extreme skiers and nature enthusiasts, park activities range from glacier trekking to scenic flights and wildlife viewing of moose, bears and elk.
Mount Everest, Nepal
As the tallest peak in the world, Mount Everest (8,848 meters) continues to hold many of us in a frozen alpine spell. Located in the Himalayan range bordering Nepal and China, Everest attracts climbers aiming to conquer its summit and trekkers drawn to the Everest Base Camp.
The surrounding Khumbu region offers breathtaking landscapes (sometimes literally, due to the thin air), Sherpa culture, and iconic monasteries like Tengboche. Despite the challenges of high-altitude trekking, Everest remains a bucket-list destination for many hikers and mountain climbers.
Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895 meters), stands as a beacon for climbers, trekkers and peak-baggers worldwide. This dormant volcano offers a journey through diverse ecosystems, from tropical forests to alpine deserts and snowy summits.
Popular routes like the Marangu and Machame Trails allow trekkers of varying skill levels to summit with no technical climbing required. The Marangu is shorter but can be harder (less time acclimatizing to altitude) while the Machame route is more popular with less seasoned climbers. Planning a 10-day trip to experience Kilimanjaro’s “Roof of Africa” is life-changing.
Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand
Aoraki / Mount Cook (3,724 meters), New Zealand’s tallest peak, is a paradise for climbers, hikers, and stargazers. The country’s Southern Alps are a scenic playground for climbers and hikers keen to experience glaciers, alpine lakes, and pristine wilderness. Climbers don’t require permits to access Aoraki, but they will need to complete a trip intention form at the Department of Conservation Visitor Centre.
The Hooker Valley Track offers easy access to stunning vistas, while the nearby Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve provides an unparalleled stargazing experience at the largest reserve in the Southern Hemisphere.
Mount Fuji, Japan
At 3,776 meters, Mount Fuji is Japan’s highest peak and arguably its most iconic national symbol. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the mountain is an extremely popular destination for pilgrims and climbers alike.
Japan has instituted a daily limit of 4,000 hikers and a 2,000 yen entry fee to access its slopes for hiking on the Yoshida Trail. This is the most frequented route to the summit, offering sunrise views that are deeply spiritual. Note: You can reserve your hiking slot online. Visitors also enjoy nearby hot springs and the Fuji Five Lakes region.
Mont Blanc, France/Italy
Western Europe’s tallest peak is Mont Blanc, the “White Mountain,” at 4,807 meters. Straddling the French and Italian borders, the massif attracts mountaineers, skiers, and hikers. Popular outdoor activities in summer include hiking, climbing, trail running and in winter, sports like skiing, and snowboarding. The most popular climbing route to the summit of Mont Blanc is the Goûter Route, which typically takes two days.
The Tour du Mont Blanc is a famed trekking route circling the massif, offering a multi-day journey through charming alpine villages and diverse alpine terrains. Mont Blanc’s allure lies in its blend of adventure and luxury.
Ama Dablam, Nepal
Often referred to as the “Matterhorn of the Himalayas,” Ama Dablam (6,812 meters) is one of the most picturesque peaks in the Everest region.
Its steep ridges and sharp summit attract experienced climbers, while trekkers admire its (and Everest’s) beauty from trails like the Ama Dablam Base Camp route. Ama Dablam’s striking silhouette has also made it a favorite peak among photographers.
Table Mountain, South Africa
Table Mountain (1,085 meters) in Cape Town offers an accessible yet rewarding mountain experience for visitors. Famous for its flat-topped, sandstone silhouette overlooking the city and Table Bay, it’s a biodiversity hotspot with unique flora and fauna, including the King Protea, South Africa’s national flower.
Visitors can hike up via the Platteklip Gorge Trail or ride in the scenic Table Mountain Cable Car. The panoramic views of Cape Town, the Atlantic Ocean and Robben Island are unforgettable.
Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain), Peru
Vinicunca, aka Rainbow Mountain, is an astonishing geological wonder in the Peruvian Andes. Its vibrant bands of red, yellow, and turquoise make it one of the most Instagrammable peaks in the world. But that’s not why you should think about visiting and hiking the mountain.
At an altitude of 5,200 meters (17,000+ ft), the trek to Vinicunca is moderately challenging but the altitude and thin air can be difficult for some hikers. However, the rewards of unparalleled views are well worth the effort. A visit to Vinicunca is often combined with travel to Cusco and Machu Picchu.
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Photo credits: Claudia Laroye; Pixabay
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