15 Most Dangerous Mountains to Climb in the world

Before we reveal the 15 most dangerous mountains in the world to climb, let us all agree that hiking any mountain or hill involves some risks in one way or the other. It is just that some mountains pose greater risks than others and if any of the mountains listed below are on your bucket list, then it would be a great time to prepare well and take serious precautions. Also, you should check if the rewards outweigh the risks before you get on that hike. To come up with this list of the world’s 15 most dangerous mountains, we have taken into consideration some critical factors like mortality rates, terrain conditions, harsh weather conditions, accessibility and technical demands for their climbs as mountaineering is not just a sport; it’s a battle between human endurance and the might of nature. Scaling the world’s highest peaks demands both skill and bravery, but for some mountains, the risk far outweighs the reward.

1. Annapurna (Nepal) –

Known as the deadliest mountain, Annapurna has a chilling fatality rate where nearly one in three climbers who reach the summit do not return. The mountain’s south face is especially notorious for its steep ice walls, frequent avalanches, and rockfall hazards, compounded by unpredictable weather patterns typical of the Himalayan region. Standing tall at 8,091 meters, this peak has a staggering fatality rate of around 32%. That means for every 100 climbers who attempt the summit, 32 tragically lose their lives. The south face of Annapurna is infamous for its avalanche-prone terrain, making every step a gamble. Climbers also face ice and rock challenges that can shift unexpectedly, while unpredictable weather patterns further increase the difficulty. It’s a deadly combination of natural hazards that make Annapurna the most dangerous mountain to climb. Below are the famous deaths on Annapurna.

2. K2 (Pakistan/China) –

The “Savage Mountain” is the second tallest and arguably one of the toughest to climb due to its extreme technical difficulties and harsh weather conditions. Climbers face severe storms, high winds, and a death zone where human life can only be sustained for a short time, contributing to its high death toll.
With a fatality rate of around 23%, K2’s treacherous conditions make it one of the most dangerous mountains to climb. Known for its unpredictable weather and frequent rockfalls, the death zone near its summit is where many lives have been lost. Climbers have to navigate steep ice faces and exposed ridges, making it a test of endurance, skill, and nerve. It’s no surprise that many climbers consider K2 to be more difficult to summit than Everest. Below is a list of some of the climbers that died at K2.

3. Nanga Parbat (Pakistan) –

This “Killer Mountain” has earned its name from the significant number of fatalities, largely due to its massive vertical relief, particularly on the Diamir Face, which is both technically challenging and avalanche-prone, alongside the mountain’s sudden weather shifts.
Nanga Parbat, ominously nicknamed the “Killer Mountain,” has a fatality rate of approximately 21%. Its rugged terrain and steep rock faces are some of the most dangerous aspects of this climb. The infamous Diamir Face is known to challenge even the most seasoned mountaineers. Add to that the unstable weather, and you have a recipe for disaster. Frequent avalanches only heighten the risks faced by those brave enough to attempt this dangerous mountain.

4. Dhaulagiri (Nepal) –

Standing tall, Dhaulagiri’s steep icefalls and complex glacier systems demand not just physical strength but also advanced climbing skills. Its isolation and the propensity for sudden, severe weather changes make it a relentless adversary for climbers with a fatality rate standing at around 16%. Known for its fierce weather patterns, including sudden and violent storms, Dhaulagiri demands exceptional climbing skills. The mountain’s steep icefalls and challenging technical sections test even the most experienced climbers. It requires not just physical strength but mental endurance to push through its dangerous slopes.

5. Kangchenjunga (Nepal/India) –

As the third highest mountain, it’s less about the altitude and more about the remote location, exposure to elements, and the long, exposed routes that are prone to avalanches, which elevate its danger level.
Its fatality rate of about 15% is attributed to the mountain’s isolation and extreme weather conditions. Avalanche-prone slopes and dangerous crevasses make it a treacherous climb. The mountain has seen many experienced climbers falter, proving that it is as deadly as it is beautiful.

Michael Groom, the first Australian to climb Kangchenjunga, world’s third highest mountain and 1996 Everest tragedy survivor

6. Makalu (Nepal) –

This mountain’s unique pyramid shape presents climbers with sustained steep slopes and technical climbing at high altitude. Its remote location near the border with Tibet adds to the logistical challenges, and the weather on Makalu is notoriously harsh. With a fatality rate of around 14%, climbers are met with harsh weather conditions, extreme cold, and avalanche risks. The technical difficulty of the climb is extremely high, with steep, exposed sections that challenge even the most prepared teams. Makalu’s pyramid-shaped peak requires a perfect combination of skill, endurance, and a bit of luck to conquer.

Lhakpa Sherpa, the first Nepali woman to successfully climb and survive Everest.

7. Gasherbrum I (Pakistan) –

Often overshadowed by K2, Gasherbrum I, or Hidden Peak, still poses significant risks with its remote location in the Karakoram, requiring climbers to face severe cold, high winds, and avalanche risks. The fatality rate stands at around 10%, and while it may be lesser-known compared to Annapurna or K2, its technical challenges are no less daunting. Steep ice faces, unpredictable weather, and the sheer remoteness of the peak add to the danger faced by climbers.

Konyi (LÁSZLÓ VÁRKONYI): one of the most successful and most experienced Hungarian expedition mountaineers

8. Gasherbrum II (Pakistan/China) –

Similar to its sibling, Gasherbrum II involves navigating through complex icefalls and crevassed terrain, with added risks from sudden weather changes typical of the region. Gasherbrum II, or K4, is another formidable peak with a fatality rate of about 10%. Its location in the Karakoram range presents climbers with technical rock and ice sections that are prone to avalanches. Those attempting to reach the summit must deal with extreme cold, high winds, and the ever-present danger of high-altitude sickness.

Ang Dorjee Sherpa climbs Everest for 23rd time

9. Denali (USA) –

Its relatively lower elevation belies its dangers; Denali’s severe cold, high latitude weather systems, and sudden storms create an environment akin to much higher mountains, testing climbers’ endurance and survival skills. Denali, the tallest peak in North America, has a fatality rate of about 9%. While it doesn’t reach the heights of the Himalayas, its extreme cold, ferocious storms, and technical difficulties make it a deadly mountain. Climbers must contend with crevasses, steep climbs, and temperatures that can plunge below -40°C, making Denali one of the most dangerous climbs outside of Asia.

Denali (Mount McKinley) the highest mountain in USA and North America the ultimate trekking guide.

10. Annapurna II (Nepal) –

While less famous than its namesake, this peak poses significant technical challenges, less traffic (which means less established routes), and the same unpredictable weather patterns as Annapurna I. Though not as tall as its sibling Annapurna I, Annapurna II shares many of the same challenges. With a fatality rate of around 9%, the technical climbing sections, unpredictable weather, and high-altitude conditions make Annapurna II a difficult and dangerous climb. The risks are further compounded by the lack of established routes, which forces climbers to find their own way through the mountain’s rugged terrain.

11. Manaslu (Nepal) –

Known for its beautiful but deadly slopes, the risk on Manaslu primarily comes from the serac-laden areas where icefall and avalanche are frequent, alongside the usual high-altitude climbing hazards. The mountain’s “Manaslu Serac” is notorious for being a high-risk section, claiming the lives of many climbers over the years. With a fatality rate of about 9%, Manaslu is a formidable challenge that demands the utmost caution and preparation.

12. Shishapangma (China) –

This mountain, while less technically demanding, is deceptive. Its lower difficulty compared to other eight-thousanders is offset by its remote location in Tibet and often underestimated conditions. Shishapangma, or Xixabangma, may be lesser-known, but it remains a deadly peak with a fatality rate of around 9%. It was the last of the eight thousanders to be summited, largely due to its remote location in the Tibetan region of China. Climbers face high-altitude sickness, unstable weather conditions, and difficult terrain.

Alex Lowe and Conrad Anker, two of the finest climbers in the world ripped by an avalanche on Shishapangma

13. Broad Peak (Pakistan) –

Climbers face long, exposed routes with sections that require technical prowess, particularly along its ridges, where weather can change rapidly, increasing the climb’s risk. Broad Peak has a fatality rate of around 8%. Climbers must navigate steep ice and rock sections along the West Ridge, all while contending with unstable weather. The isolation of the mountain also adds to the danger, as rescue operations are incredibly challenging in such remote areas.

14. Mount Huascarán (Peru) –

The highest peak in Peru’s tropical zone, its dangers lie in the glacier instability, frequent avalanches, and the complexity of its routes due to crevasses and seracs. With a fatality rate of around 8%, the mountain’s steep terrain and unpredictable conditions make it a hazardous climb. Climbers must navigate the ever-present danger of rockfalls and rapidly changing weather.

Riccardo Cassin, legendary Italian climber who created routes up some of the world’s most difficult peaks and mountain equipment

15. Everest (Nepal/China) –

Despite its fame for being the tallest, Everest’s danger lies in its Death Zone, where oxygen is scarce, and in the sheer number of climbers, leading to potential overcrowding, alongside the typical Himalayan weather challenges. Despite its popularity and the thousands of people who attempt to climb it each year, Mount Everest is still incredibly dangerous. With a fatality rate of approximately 6.5%, climbers face extreme cold, fierce winds, and the dangers of high-altitude sickness in the death zone. There are over 200 bodies still on Everest, a sobering reminder of the risks involved.

How dangerous is Kilimanjaro compared to these other mountains?

Unlike these deadly peaks, Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania does not require technical climbing skills. Its primary threat to climbers is altitude sickness rather than falls, avalanches, or extreme weather conditions. Kilimanjaro’s summit can be reached via hiking, making it accessible to those without mountaineering experience, although its high altitude still poses significant health risks. It doesn’t require technical climbing skills, and there are no cliffs or crevasses to navigate. However, altitude sickness remains a concern, and fatalities do occur. The mortality rate is much lower at about 0.0136%, primarily due to acute mountain sickness (AMS). Read more about Kilimanjaro’s reported deaths and mortality rate here.