Everest is arguably every mountain climber’s dream peak. For good reason: It stands high and proud at 8.85 kilometres above sea level, and represents the conquest of a lifetime. While it’s natural to have your eyes transfixed on this majestic mountain — there are a lot more mountains to conquer as well. On that note, here are four of the top climbs you need to make in 2021.
Kilimanjaro – Tanzania
At 5.9 kilometres, Kilimanjaro in Tanzania is the tallest mountain in Africa, as well as the tallest freestanding mountain in the world (meaning, it isn’t part of any mountain range). That means hiking up Kilimanjaro is all sorts of exhilarating, though the altitude and length can take a physical toll. Thankfully, the climb isn’t that technical at all, so anyone who can hike can tag along. Along the way, you’ll encounter pretty much every kind of ecological system: rain forests, cultivated land, alpine desert, heath, moorland, and an arctic summit. To get to that summit, you’ll have to walk along the crater ridge of the dormant Kibo, one of the three volcanoes that make up Kilimanjaro (along with the extinct pair that is Mawenzi and Shira). Now, better plan your Kilimanjaro climb fast; it’s amazing snow caps are losing mass, and they might disappear in as little as 20 years.
Damavand – Iran
Just south of the Caspian Sea in Iran stands the massive and stunning mountains of the Alborz range. The most spectacular of them all is Damavand, which stands as Iran’s tallest mountain at 5.61 kilometres (and Asia’s highest volcano). The climb up to Damavand’s peak presents quite a few challenges, as well as some unique sights: hot springs and fumaroles that pockmark this now dormant volcano. Then at the top are two small glaciers where you can step up to soak in the dazzling views atop Iran’s highest point. Among the sights you’ll see are parts of the Caspian Sea, portions of the historic city of Tehran, and the rivers of Haraz and Lar. That being said, consider this as well: it’s not every day that you’ll get to summit a mountain of great cultural importance.
Mount Chimborazo – Ecuador
Across the Atlantic is Ecuador, where Mount Chimborazo resides. Interestingly it’s best known as the mountain that dethroned the mighty Everest, with Gala Bingo noting how Mount Chimborazo is the highest point on Earth. This calculation is made through measuring from Earth’s centre all the way to Chimborazo’s peak (as opposed to measuring it from sea level). By that metric, Science Alert explains that this Ecuadorian mountain stretches 6,384 kilometres — 2 kilometres clear of Everest’s 6,382 kilometres. Like Everest, Chimborazo also offers spectacular vistas from every angle. Climbing it, however, is relatively easier than climbing Everest. In fact, tackling the former will take just around 2 days compared to about 9 days for the latter. Once you do, you can tell your friends that you conquered ‘the world’s tallest mountain.’
Carrauntoohil – Ireland
Ireland is perfect for idyllic respites, especially when you spend time in Kilmackillogue in Kerry and Baltimore in West Cork. But in case you don’t know, Ireland’s is also home to some stunning mountains that serious climbers need to check out. Number 1 on the list should be Carrauntoohil, which stands proudly in the county of Kerry. It is, at 1.03 kilometres from sea level, the highest peak of Ireland, and is part of MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, the country’s most famous mountain range. Now, Carrauntoohil may not be as high as the other mountains in this list, but its rugged terrain requires steady footing and makes climbing quite challenging. When you get to the summit, though, your reward is a panoramic view of snow-capped peaks; deep, breathtaking valleys; and oval lakes with pristine waters.
