Climbing To The Peak
From massive peaks that take days to climb to oddly shaped cliff faces that we love, great mountains are almost impossible to stop and stare at.
Few things can compare to the sense of awe you feel when you reach the top of a giant.
1.Table Mountain
One of the most famous mountains in the world, Table Mountain overlooks the city of Cape Town, South Africa at its highest point of 1,085 meters.
As its name implies, it is known for its unique flat top and for its diverse wildlife.
In case you didn't know, Table Mountain is also one of the oldest mountains on Earth.
It is over 200 million years old and the first recorded ascent was made in the early 16th century by a Portuguese explorer named Antonio de Saldaña.
Today, a cable car takes about 800 people per hour to the summit of Table Mountain in just five minutes.
To save time on the day, please book your tickets in advance.
This will give you more time to enjoy the panoramic views of Cape Town from the top of the mountain.
If you prefer to go the long way, you can follow the herringbone hiking trail along Platteklip Gorge.
Depending on your fitness level, it should take 2-3 hours.
Summer, when conditions are dry and sunny, is the best time to visit.
2.Vinicunca
The pink and yellow striped Vinicunca of Peru seems to belong to another planet.
But it is part of the Peruvian Andes, right here on Earth.
The mountain's colors are caused by mineral deposits about three to four hours' drive southeast of Cusco, a beautiful city filled with Spanish colonial architecture.
The summit of Vinicunca can be reached through a challenging six-day Ausangate trek.
Parts of the hike will be above 4,800 meters above sea level and the altitude can be a real challenge.
You will need to drink lots of water and take regular breaks.
But it's worth it for the views and relative quiet of the route compared to the tourist-heavy Inca Trail at Machu Picchu.
In the Peruvian winter, the conditions on the trail are the best and driest.
3.Mt. Fuji
Known throughout the world, Mt. Fuji is the largest mountain in Japan.
Its summit is 3,775 meters high and is at its best when covered in snow.
It also has great cultural significance.
The mountain has long been considered sacred and has attracted pilgrims of Buddhist, Shinto and other faiths for centuries.
However, Mount Fuji is elusive, disappearing behind the clouds at the first opportunity.
But stick with it, and you will be rewarded.
On your first visit, you may be as close as you can get to this legendary mountain.
But it's actually best seen from a distance.
Weather permitting, you can even see it from some of Tokyo's towering skyscrapers.
If you want to hike, you can choose one of the four mountain trails.
The Yoshida Trail is the most popular choice, and buses can take you directly from Tokyo to the trail origin.
Let's have an intimate conversation with the mountains.
Take a challenge with yourself while experiencing nature.