Bucket-list mountain climbs

What do breathtaking views, once-in-a-lifetime adventure, and an unparalleled sense of accomplishment have in common? They’re all waiting for you at the summit of these bucket-list climbs.

Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

An impressive 5,899 metres high, Kilimanjaro is Africa’s tallest mountain and one of the best-known mountains in the world. While is it by no means an easy climb, Kilimanjaro is set up well to help beginner climbers learn and see how their bodies deal with the altitude without risky technical or environmental challenges. Regardless of skill, all mountaineers must be joined by a local guide and should block off between 5 and 6 days to complete the climb. The effort pays off as reaching its peak guarantees once in a lifetime views.

Nestled in the foothills of Kilimanjaro, Kaliwa Lodge offers beautiful views of the mountain and is just minutes away from the entrance to Kilimanjaro National Park.

Denali, Alaska

Located in Denali National Park, Denali (also known as Mount McKinley) is the highest mountain in North America reaching 6,194 metres at its peak. Unsurprisingly, this steep elevation means a more difficult climbing route – in fact, even experienced climbers can benefit from completing the trek with of the park’s six registered guide companies. Denali is best climbed between May and June, when conditions are at their most stable and climbers can expect the journey to take up to four weeks to complete.

Just a short drive from the Denali National Park Entrance, McKinley Creekside Cabins are close to several hiking trails you can explore when not trekking the mountain.

Mount Elbrus, Russia

The highest mountain not only in Russia but all of Europe, Mount Elbrus actually consists of two dormant volcanoes and on the western summit you can see a well-preserved volcanic crater, 250 metres wide. A popular climb among novice mountaineers, Mount Elbrus is known for its challenging but rewarding route. To complete the 5,642-metre journey to the summit takes about a week.

LeapRus Capsule Hotel is a one-of-a-kind accommodation that allows you to stay right on the mountainside, giving you easy access to any of the mountain’s activities.

Hvannadalshnúkur, Iceland

If you’re looking for a quick climb, Hvannadalshnúkur is your mountain of choice. Standing only 2100 metres in height, Hvannadalshnúkur is actually Iceland’s tallest mountain. The climb can be completed in a day giving you plenty of time to explore the neighbouring Skaftafell National Park. The great thing about Hvannadalshnúkur is that while it’s not technically difficult it still offers the challenge of traversing the mountain’s many crevasses.

Ideally situated beside Vatnajökull National Park, Hotel Skaftafell offers sweeping views of both Hvannadalshnúkur and the largest glacier in Europe after which the park is named.

Matterhorn, Switzerland

With its near-perfect pyramid shape and free-standing form, the Matterhorn has become one of the most photographed mountains in the world, as well as a bucket-list climb for many mountaineers. To reach the 4,478-metre peak, it takes about two days of climbing and a mountain guide is required.

While the Matterhorn is visible from multiple towns, Zermatt is where you should go if you want to see the most iconic views of the mountain. Residence Patricia offers guests full-services apartment, many of which have balconies perfect for capturing some great photos of the Matterhorn.