The Top Bucket List Mountains To Climb This Year

We know the feeling - when you suddenly crave being on a mountain summit somewhere.

At Skyhook, we also know that narrowing your list of mountains to climb to just one can take a toll on you.

There are just too many mountains in all continents that call out to you, and many times you're not sure where to go next. 

The best part is you can start anywhere, as long as you know which mountains will leave you more satisfied than others.

So, we've made this list of top bucket list mountains to climb at least once in your lifetime.

It is the highest mountain in the world, one of the seven summits of the world, and the one mountain that could truly test your skills to the limit.

Standing at 8,848 metres above sea level, you could even say Mount Everest is a spiritual journey.

It's one of many mountains in Nepal to climb that requires utmost dedication, concentration, and physical strength to summit.

That said, Everest is a technical climb best tackled by experienced climbers. Everything, from the rocky and slippery terrain to very low oxygen levels would take a toll on any climber, also making it one of the most difficult mountains to climb.

So, if you're not used to such elevations, we recommend trekking to Everest Base Camp first, which is an elevation of 5,545 metres below the summit of Mount Everest.

EBC is a bustling hub where climbers acclimate to the Himalayan environment.

EBC has a moderate climbing difficulty, and you can select Skyhook's 12-day EBC hike or our longer 16-day EBC hike that allows better acclimation.

Your daily EBC hiking distance unfolds against a backdrop of pristine snow-covered peaks, offering picturesque vistas that add to the allure of Everest!

See also: mountains to climb before Everest

In the Karakoram Range, K2 is a formidable challenge if you're seeking unbridled beauty and technical prowess.

Unlike Everest, K2 lacks a traditional base camp, adding an element of ruggedness to the climb. 

As one of the world's deadliest mountains to climb, the ascent exposes you to unpredictable weather and demanding technical climbs, testing the mettle of even the most experienced climbers.

The absence of a conventional base camp on K2 accentuates the raw, savage beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Towering peaks and expansive glaciers create a dramatic backdrop, making every step towards the summit a visual spectacle. 

In the Southern Alps of New Zealand, Mount Cook offers a serene yet challenging ascent.

The base camp is situated against the backdrop of the azure waters of Lake Pukaki and provides a tranquil starting point for your journey. 

The climb, though less daunting than some counterparts, weaves through snowfields and ice, culminating in a summit that rewards with unrivalled Southern Hemisphere vistas.

Alaska's Denali, North America's tallest peak, invites you to immerse yourself in pristine wilderness.

The base camp, nestled in the Kahiltna Glacier, is a strategic outpost for acclimatisation, surrounded by the vast expanses of Alaskan wilderness. 

A Denali climb is an awe-inspiring trek through ice and snow, challenging even the most seasoned climbers on one of the top mountains to climb in the US.

Characterised by technical challenges and breathtaking exposure, the mountain unfolds against a backdrop of untouched landscapes.

The iconic Matterhorn, with its distinct pyramid shape, stands tall in the Pennine Alps.

As one of the hardest mountains to climb in Europe, the ascent demands a mix of technical rock climbing and ice skills, making it a must-have on your bucket list mountains to climb as you gain more experience.

Are you in for an African adventure? If so, Mount Kilimanjaro beckons with its diverse ecosystems.

Among many Kilimanjaro facts is that it's the tallest mountain in Africa, one of the seven summits, and the largest free-standing mountain in the world!

The Kilimanjaro climb, starting in the lush rainforest, is non-technical but physically demanding, making it a paramount choice for your bucket list mountains to climb.

Kilimanjaro's climb traverses through farmlands, a rainforest, an alpine desert, and glaciers for a journey unlike any other.

The best part about this mountain is that any month is a good time to climb Kilimanjaro, thanks to its proximity to the equator which stabilises the weather.

Also, unlike other mountains, the Kilimanjaro weather will not surprise you as long as you're sure if you're hiking in the dry or rainy season.

It's also a supported hike, so Kilimanjaro guides and porters are mandatory crew, and they also make the climb easier.

Mont Blanc, Western Europe's highest peak oozes an alpine charm. The climb features a mix of technical rock faces and snowfields that provide challenges for different skill levels.

Mont Blanc also promises stunning views of the surrounding Alps, a visual feast for the adventurous soul.

Base camps near Mont Blanc, particularly in Chamonix, offer a quintessential Alpine atmosphere.

As one of the best mountains to hike in Europe, a Mont Blanc climb is where every step is rewarded with panoramic views — an undisputed inclusion in your bucket list of mountains to climb.

Turning eastward, Mount Elbrus, Europe's highest peak, offers a majestic ascent. as one of the easiest mountains to climb on the continent.

Even though it's not a technical climb, the mountain unfolds through snowfields and glaciers with expansive views of the Russian landscape.

Mount Kenya, Africa's second highest peak after Kilimanjaro, should be one of your bucket list mountains to climb in Africa for several reasons. 

For starters, it offers a unique climbing experience with its diverse ecosystems, ranging from lush forests to rugged rock and ice at the summit. 

Then, the mountain's distinct peaks – Batian, Nelion, and Point Lenana – cater to both technical climbers and trekkers.

In addition, you'll enjoy stunning scenery, including glaciers and alpine meadows, combined with rich wildlife to make the journey truly memorable. 

Not to mention, climbing Mount Kenya offers a less crowded yet equally majestic alternative to Kilimanjaro, with the promise of an authentic and exhilarating mountain adventure.

The best parts? Mount Kenya weather is fairly stable all year long, and you also climb paced distances a day to allow for the best acclimatisation.

Machu Picchu, perched atop the Andes in Peru, is a quintessential bucket list mountain due to its blend of breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and cultural significance. 

If you're wondering why you should visit Machu Picchu, some interesting Machu Picchu facts show its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's also one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, reflecting its global importance. 

Your trek to this ancient Incan citadel, traversing stunning landscapes and unveiling the mysteries of a bygone civilisation, is a journey through time.

As one of the top mountains to climb in Peru, you'll love its fusion of adventure, historical intrigue, and the awe-inspiring panoramic vistas that greet you upon arrival.

These bucket list mountains to climb offer not just summits to conquer but technical challenges, cultural experiences, and breathtaking landscapes. 

Each ascent up these iconic mountains of the world adds a unique chapter to your adventure story, whether you're a novice seeking new heights or an experienced climber craving the thrill of the next summit. 

Book your mountain summit trip with us at Skyhook Adventure today. With our expert mountaineering advice, you can turn your climbing aspirations into reality!