Mount Kilimanjaro (Africa): $2,500 to $8,000

Mount Kilimanjaro has a reputation for being a long but easy hike. In fact, the most popular trail is called the “Coca Cola Route” because drinks are available for sale along the way. While the routes on Mount Kilimanjaro are not particularly demanding, the altitude and your choice of tour guide play important roles in your success or failure. Guide service is compulsory on the mountain and some local guides promise you the summit in four or five days’ time. But Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit is at 19,340 feet, and altitude sickness is the main reason why people fail to reach the top. If you take 7 to 9 days, and come prepared for an expedition rather than a hike, it’s very likely that you’ll summit successfully (See What It Costs To Climb Mount Kilimanjaro ).

Mount Vinson (Antarctica):  $29,400 to $32,450

Majestic scenery, intense cold, and an incredibly remote location are key characteristics of Mt. Vinson (elevation 16,050 feet). Climbers need expert winter mountaineering skills, experience with winter rescue and route finding, and the ability to cope while waiting out huge storms that may put the climbing schedule on hold. Since there is no porter support on this climb, you must be exceptionally fit and able to carry a pack weighing as much as 65 pounds (See What It Costs To Climb Mount Vinson ).

Mount Everest (Asia): $60,700 to $87,000

The most challenging of all the Seven Summits, Mt. Everest, at 29,035 feet, is the top of the world and climbing it will definitely put a strain on your wallet. In recent years, the mountain has actually become crowded as groups from around the world stream into base camp. Some are highly skilled and qualified climbers, but others are frighteningly unqualified tourists who are paying top dollar for the thrill of their lives. Sadly, conditions on Mount Everest are so extreme that even the smallest mistake by one team member can lead to disaster for many (See What It Costs To Climb Mount Everest ).