12 BEST Mountains to Climb 🏔 (Possible Summits!)

Until you’ve been amongst mountain giants, it’s hard to explain how powerful they truly are.

And I don’t just mean in the literal sense, because yes, they’re huge, but it’s the feeling they give that’s transformed me a full-on mountain junkie in less than a year.

And while enjoying the world’s best peaks from the ground is certainly something, to really escape the madness and monotony of day-to-day life, why not get vertical by tackling one of the best mountains to climb?!

Scaling snow-capped peaks certainly has its moments of pain, but the views, the billion-starred skies, and the indescribable feeling of standing on top of a summit make climbing a mountain a lifechanging experience .

It’s an addiction that only gets stronger with each ascent–but at this point, you’re probably wondering where exactly to start.

Spoiler alert: as a beginner, you certainly don’t want to try to conquer K2 or Nanga Parbat, both of which are some of the deadliest mountains to climb on Earth.

Instead, you’ll want something doable: feasible summits that anyone with a bit of fitness and a good amount of determination can reach.

And you’ll be surprised to know there are way more options out there than you might think. Mount Everest isn’t the only summit worthy of an expedition!

So without further ado, these are the top mountains to climb in the world that just might change your life forever.

12 BEST Mountains to Climb On The Planet

These are the best mountains to climb for beginners and intermediate climbers to add to their bucket lists.

1. Mount Kilimanjaro (Tanzania)

One of the best beginner mountains to climb in the world is none other than Mount Kilimanjaro. Technically a volcano, Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in Africa AND one of the most accessible climbs for newbies.

The flat-topped peak is located in Tanzania. Yet despite the fact that you’ll be seriously close to the equator, you can still expect to encounter glaciers and even snow as you approach the top.

As a part of the Seven Summits, nearly 35,000 trekkers make their way to the summit each year and there are a number of routes you can take up including:  Lemosho, Machame (Whiskey Route), Marangu, Rongai, Northern Circuit, Shira, and Umbwe.

These days, the “Whiskey Route” is the most popular, though your guide can plan whichever itinerary you wish.

Do keep in mind that as of 1991, all trekkers must be accompanied by a registered, licensed guide as independent summits are not allowed.

2. Mount Khuiten (Mongolia)

Situated in a remote corner of Mongolia near the Chinese border, Mount Khuiten is one of the best mountains to climb for those looking to get off the beaten path.

A surreal snow-capped peak nestled in between the lush, emerald-green Altai range, Khuiten is the highest peak in the country and is rarely tackled.

Part of the reason for that is that Mount Khuiten is far out to say the least. Located in the Tavan Bogd National Park, the peak is part of Mongolia’s Altai Tavan Bogd, or Five Holy Peaks.

Expect to encounter both the Potanin Glacier and views of China and Russia if you’re lucky enough to reach the summit on a clear day.

Moreover, this expedition will also allow you to dive into real, immersive travel–the area you’ll base in before the climb is home to nomadic families in the summer months.

As ropes are used to reach the top, a guide is a must, though permits are not required.

3. Mount Aconcagua (Argentina)

Not only is Argentina’s Aconcagua one of the most popular mountains to climb, but it’s also one of the windiest. Despite not being the tallest peak on this list, expect a fierce challenge from this Andean giant.

While not particularly technical, the climb is tough and physical fitness (in addition to some hiking experience) is a pre-requisite.

As the highest peak to climb outside of Asia AND one of the Seven Summits, many climbers take on Aconcagua before trying their hand at the giants of the Karakoram and Himalayas.

Most climbers ascend to the roof of the Americas (yes, it is the tallest mountain of the region!) via what’s called the Normal Route. Permits are required–and note that they can be pricey.

Do keep in mind that altitude sickness can get serious quickly on Aconcagua, which is why it’s crucial to properly acclimatize, AND bring an AMS medication like Diamox.

And while guides are not officially mandated, only experienced climbers should go for this beast alone!

4. Minglik Sar (Pakistan)

If you’re already planning on going trekking in Pakistan, why not throw a (relatively) easy summit into the mix?

Minglik Sar is widely said to be the easiest mountain to climb in the country, and unlike many other summits on this list, it’s still relatively unknown to foreigners.

The climb itself can be done in 2 days and 1 night though the caveat is you’ll have to first embark on a legendary (but non-technical) trek through the stunning Shimshal Valley to reach the starting point, which makes it a longer endeavor.

The climb starts on typical rock face before transferring onto a snow-covered section, which makes crampons, gaiters, and a harness must-have items for your packing list.

Due to extreme weather conditions at this altitude, late June-late July is pretty much the only window where climbing Minglik Sar is feasible.

Mountaineering skills are not required, but you’ll want to be physically fit and have several multi-day treks under your belt before attempting this summit. Per the valley’s own rules, you’ll also need a licensed guide to accompany you, and realistically, a few porters too.

Altitude sickness is a very real risk, which is why it’s SO important to acclimate in Central Hunza and Shimshal for at least a week total before heading toward Minglik.

5. Lenin Peak (Kyrgyzstan)

If you’re looking for the best 7000m peaks to climb, you can end your search right here.

Kyrgyzstan’s Lenin Peak is the easiest 7000-meter summit in the world–even fit beginners can make it to the top on their first try with quality guides.

It’s also the third highest peak of the former Soviet Union, where it was termed one of the five “Snow Leopard Peaks.”

These days, it attracts few people compared to other popular summits, which really makes it one of best mountains to climb in the world in my book.

The journey to Lenin Peak will take you through some of Kyrgyzstan’s most stunning scenery, through nomadic yurt camps and alpine lakes that seem to be an otherworldly shade of blue.

Located in the Trans-Alay Range of the Pamirs, the climb isn’t technical, and 99% of hopefuls use the Razdelnaya route to reach the top.

Another interesting tidbit about Lenin Peak is that it IS possible to climb solo, though not recommended unless you have a handful of prior summits on your resume.

6. Mount Rinjani (Indonesia)

Indonesia’s Mount Rinjani is one of the coolest mountains to climb – the reason being is that it’s actually a volcano!

The trek to the crater’s rim will reward you with stunning technicolor views as well as a glimpse of Lake Segara Anak, a deep-turquoise pool that’s formed in the volcano’s center.

While Rinjani doesn’t quite compare to the Seven Summits or peaks in Pakistan and Nepal, don’t underestimate it–you’re about to be in for some pretty serious incline.

The trek itself has two potential starts, and I highly recommend beginning from Sembalun for ease, though there are some alternative routes to consider too.

Technically, Mount Rinjani CAN be climbed without a guide, though as per usual, first-time mountaineers aren’t going to want to go it alone.

Quality tour companies do provide a lot of extras, so if you find yourself on Lombok sans gear, you can still make it to the summit even if you only have a cheap hiking backpack.

7. Mount Denali (Alaska, USA)

No doubt the best mountain to climb in the US is Denali, the mammoth peak is one of the most isolated mountains on Earth.

The climb is often rough–blizzard conditions are common once you get towards the summit, and overall, just around 50% of hopefuls en dup making it to the top.

The route you take when tackling Denali matters a LOT, because boy, are you in for some elevation gain–5500 meters to be exact!

That’s why most climbers choose the West Buttress route. It’s the least technical, which matters on a mountain as rugged as this one.

Just because it’s not overly technical doesn’t mean it’s a walk in the park–the route will still involve crossing glaciers and trekking with fixed lines.

You’ll also need to carry everything yourself as porters/sherpas are not allowed, which undoubtedly makes things more challenging. It’s super important to remember that while guides are NOT required to climb Denali, pre-registration is.

It’s mandatory to register your climb at least 60 days before, with very few exceptions.

8. Mera Peak (Nepal)

A lesser-known giant of the Himalayas, Mera Peak is one of the top mountains to climb for those who have some experience, but aren’t quite ready to go for the “white whales” of the mountaineering world.

While not technically demanding, you’re going to want to be comfortable walking on ice and using a rope+harness, and ideally have experience at least 5000 meters.

The real reason to climb Mera peak is for the summit views–on a clear day, you’ll get to see some of the world’s highest mountains: including Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and Makalu.

Located in Nepal’s Khumbu region, permits (around $250 USD in peak season) and registered guides are necessary to summit Mera.

You can also bag nearby Island Peak–or even add in the aforementioned Yala Peak–to make your journey doubly worthwhile.

9. Matterhorn (Switzerland)

While the natural landmarks of Asia and South America dominate this list, you might like the fact that Matterhorn is a bit closer to home.

The shining star of the Swiss Alps, Matterhorn is one of the best mountains to climb in Europe and hardly needs an introduction.

The elevation is pretty low – I’ve hiked grassy passes in Hunza Valley that were higher – BUT that doesn’t mean the ascent is all fun and games.

You’ll need to be prepared to push for 9-12 hours to reach the summit, and be comfortable making your way through Grade 2 and 3 scrambles.

Most climbers (around 3000 of which reach the summit every year) use the Hornli Ridge from Zermatt.

Permits and guides are NOT required, though you should definitely hire one if you’re new to mountaineering.

10. Mount Damavand (Iran)

Iran isn’t on many climbers radar… but the dormant volcanic peak known as Mount Damavand should be. As the highest volcano in Asia, Damavand holds a special place in local folklore.

Though likened to Kilimanjaro, summiting Mount Damavand couldn’t be more different. As one of the most offbeat mountains on the list, you won’t have to fight for trail space here.

You’ll start off trekking through emerald-green landscapes, where you’ll encounter both natural hot springs and families of Iranian nomads who travel about the region.

Permits (that cost $50 USD) are required, but guides are only recommended, which makes this mountain even more appealing to independent climbers.

11. Mount Kinabalu (Malaysia)

Not quite a volcano, Malaysia’s Mount Kinabalu is huge granite dome that was lifted to the surface some 7 million years ago.

Today, the stunning peak is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site and might just be one of the safest mountains to climb in the world.

Due to its status, having a registered guide is mandatory, as is staying on the mountain. But who wouldn’t want to stay on a peak as unique as this one?

The mountain is home to more than 5,000 different plant species, and the route is overflowing with greenery. You can even take the trek to another level with Mountain Torq, the world’s highest via ferrata.

Though trekking to Mount Kinabalu is only a 17.4 km round trip (10.8 miles), there is a 2300 m elevation gain, so don’t take altitude sickness prep lightly!

12. Yala Peak (Nepal)

Situated inside Nepal’s remote Langtang National Park is Yala Peak, one of the top mountains to climb for beginner mountaineers. The reason is that Yala is technically a “trekking peak” meaning you don’t need mountaineering experience to reach the top.

That being said, I think you should have done some multi-day glacial hikes before attempting it though.

Take in the majestic beauty of the Himalayas as you scramble across rock faces and traipse across patches of snow and glaciers. The best part about this summit is it won’t cost an arm and a leg. Nepal IS one of the cheapest countries in Asia, after all.

Permits are not required, and neither are guides–though it’s a good idea to at least take a porter as the route can be unclear, even for experienced climbers.

Bonus: Best Mountains to Climb Above 8000 m

Now let’s talk about two of the most doable summits out of the highest mountains to climb in the world…

Broad Peak (Pakistan)

As one of the world’s 14 mountains over 8000 meters, Broad Peak is definitely not for beginners. That being said, it’s perhaps the EASIEST summit out of the hardest mountains to climb.

Like all of Pakistan’s peaks, you’ll find Broad in Gilgit Baltistan, a region that is incredibly safe and idyllic. Your journey to the world’s 12th highest peak is best started from Askole, which is in the Skardu region.

As it’s located in the country’s Central Karakoram National Park, climbing with permits and a registred mountaineering company is mandated.

Gasherbrum II (Pakistan)

As the world’s 13th highest peak and yet another 8000er, Gasherbrum II is a formidable but doable challenge for experienced mountaineers.

While not the hardest or most dangerous mountain to climb, G2 is not to be taken lightly.

You’ll need around 50-60 days once arriving into Pakistan, and realistically, you should have a handful of 6500 and 7000 summits under your belt before attempting it.

Like Broad Peak, G2 is also in Central Karakoram National Park and thus the same permit+guiding fees are required.

FAQs About the World’s Best Mountains to Climb

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about climbing the world’s best mountains.

Final Thoughts on The Best Mountains to Climb

Maybe it’s just me, but reading about the very best mountains to climb always makes me want to grab my gear and get out on the trail!

I hope you now have a better idea of what peaks are out there, and which ones makes sense for your level of experience.

If you’ve yet to stand on a summit, start off with multi-day treks before taking it to the next level. But if you’ve already experienced the magic of extreme elevation, it’s time to start preparing for a real expedition.

Keep in mind that these are but SOME of the top mountains to summit, the world is filled with stunning climbs, many of which are just waiting for the first ascent.

And to let you in on a little secret: the Karakoram and Hindu Kush Ranges of Pakistan are littered with virgin peaks ;)