The Volcanic Seven Summits
The Volcanic Seven Summits are the highest volcanoes on each continent and represent one of the most extreme challenges in mountaineering. Completing them requires exceptional endurance, skill, and the ability to navigate remote and often harsh environments. This achievement combines adventure, exploration, and a deep connection with some of the most extreme landscapes on Earth.
The Volcanic Seven Summits challenge was first completed in 2011, marking a major milestone in exploratory mountaineering. This achievement confirmed the viability of the concept and brought broader attention to volcanic peaks as serious mountaineering objectives rather than purely geological features.
Mount Kilimanjaro - Africa
Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest peak, standing at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), and is one of the most iconic mountains in the world. Its snow-capped summit rises dramatically above the Tanzanian plains, offering climbers an unforgettable mix of landscapes — from lush tropical forests at its base to alpine deserts and glacial peaks at the top.
Climbing Kilimanjaro is a true test of endurance, requiring physical fitness, stamina, and careful acclimatization to handle the extreme altitude and rapidly changing weather. While technically non-technical, the trek demands mental strength and perseverance. Successfully reaching the summit is a life-changing achievement, combining adventure, challenge, and the unforgettable experience of standing atop one of the world’s most iconic mountains.
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Mountain range: Eastern Rift Mountains
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Location: Tanzania, East Africa
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Height: 5,895 m
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Special feature: Highest mountain in Africa and the tallest free-standing mountain in the world
Summited in 2015
Pico de Orizaba - North America
Pico de Orizaba, also known as Citlaltépetl, is the highest mountain in Mexico and the third highest in North America, rising to 5,636 meters (18,491 feet). This dormant stratovolcano is famous for its snow-capped peak, glaciers, and striking volcanic features. Located on the border of Puebla and Veracruz, Pico de Orizaba offers climbers stunning views of rugged volcanic terrain, high-altitude landscapes, and unique alpine ecosystems, making it a favorite among mountaineers seeking both challenge and beauty.
For climbers, the ascent of Pico de Orizaba is a demanding but non-technical trek. Most routes involve glacier travel, so experience with crampons and ice axes is helpful, and altitude acclimatization is essential. Expect cold temperatures near the summit, strong winds, and potentially rapidly changing weather. Despite the challenges, climbers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views and the sense of accomplishment from reaching the highest point in Mexico.
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Mountain range: Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt
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Location: Mexico
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Height: 5,636 m
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Special feature: Highest mountain in Mexico and the highest volcano in North America
Summited in 2023
Mount Damavand - Asia
Mount Damavand stands as the highest volcano in Asia at 5,610 meters (18,406 feet), dominating the landscape of northern Iran. Its imposing peak, often shrouded in clouds, rises from rugged slopes marked by volcanic rock and steaming fumaroles. Damavand is not only a natural landmark but also a symbol of resilience, drawing climbers seeking a mix of adventure, challenge, and the thrill of exploring one of the continent’s most dramatic mountains.
Climbing Damavand is both a physical and mental adventure rather than a technical challenge. Trekkers can experience varying terrains, from gentle slopes to rugged volcanic rocks, often encountering changing weather conditions that demand careful preparation. The reward is not just the breathtaking view from the summit but also the sense of walking a path steeped in cultural significance and natural wonder. For many, reaching the top of Damavand is a profound experience that combines the thrill of mountaineering with a connection to Iran’s rich heritage.
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Mountain range: Alborz Mountains
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Location: Iran
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Height: 5,610 m
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Special feature: Highest mountain in Iran and the highest volcano in Asia
Summited in 2019
Mount Elbrus - Europe
Mount Elbrus, located in the western Caucasus of Russia, is Europe’s highest peak, rising to 5,642 meters (18,510 feet). This dormant volcano is famous for its twin summits, expansive glaciers, and snow-covered slopes, making it a popular destination for climbers and adventurers from around the world. Elbrus stands as both a natural wonder and a symbol of the Caucasus region, attracting those eager to experience its dramatic alpine scenery and panoramic views from the roof of Europe
Despite being non-technical for most standard routes, climbing Elbrus carries significant dangers. Extreme cold, sudden weather changes, and high-altitude conditions can lead to frostbite, hypothermia, and altitude sickness. Glacial crevasses and slippery ice patches pose additional risks, and strong winds near the summit can make progress slow and treacherous. Proper acclimatization, reliable gear, and careful planning are essential to safely navigate these hazards and reach the summit of this majestic mountain.
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Mountain range: Caucasus Mountains
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Location: Russia
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Height: 5,642 m
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Special feature: Highest mountain in Europe and a dormant volcano
Summited in 2017
Mount Giluwe - Oceania
Mount Giluwe, at 4,368 meters (14,331 feet), is Papua New Guinea’s second-highest peak and its tallest volcano. Unlike many famous mountains, Giluwe is cloaked in lush jungles, mossy forests, and highland grasslands, with crater lakes and hot springs adding to its unique beauty. Its remote location, far from roads or towns, makes it one of the most isolated and pristine peaks in the world.
Climbing Giluwe is a true wilderness experience. Trekkers face dense jungle, steep ridges, and boggy terrain, with rapidly changing weather and little access to help. While technical skills are not usually required, endurance, careful planning, and backcountry experience are essential. The summit rewards adventurers with breathtaking views and the rare experience of exploring a largely untouched volcanic landscape.
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Mountain range: Central Range (Papua New Guinea Highlands)
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Location: Papua New Guinea
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Height: 4,368 m
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Special feature: Highest volcano in Oceania and one of the most prominent volcanic peaks in the world
Summited in 2022
Ojos del Salado - South America
Ojos del Salado, straddling the border of Chile and Argentina, is the highest active volcano in the world and the second-highest peak in the Western Hemisphere at 6,893 meters (22,615 feet). Located in the remote Atacama Desert, it rises dramatically above one of the driest regions on Earth, creating a stark, otherworldly landscape of volcanic rock, salt flats, and high-altitude deserts. Its extreme elevation and arid surroundings make it a unique destination for mountaineers seeking both challenge and solitude.
Climbing Ojos del Salado is very challenging because of the extreme altitude, which leads to thin air and a higher risk of altitude sickness. Temperatures are often freezing, and climbers are exposed to to strong sun during the way. Water is also very limited in this dry, remote environment. Even though the route is not technically difficult, the harsh conditions and isolation make it demanding. careful preparation, acclimatization, and some high-altitude experience are important for a safe ascent.
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Mountain range: Andes Mountains
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Location: Chile / Argentina
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Height: 6,893 m
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Special feature: Highest volcano in the world and the highest peak in Chile
Summited in 2023
Mount Sidley - Antarctica
Mount Sidley, rising to 4,285 meters (14,058 feet), is the highest volcano in Antarctica and one of the most remote peaks on Earth. Located in the icy expanses of the Marie Byrd Land, it is surrounded by glaciers and harsh polar terrain, making it largely inaccessible and rarely climbed. Its isolation, extreme cold, and striking volcanic features make Mount Sidley a compelling destination for only the most prepared and adventurous mountaineers.
Climbing Mount Sidley is extremely challenging due to Antarctica’s severe cold, high winds, and unpredictable storms. Crevassed glaciers and icy slopes add serious hazards, and the mountain’s remoteness means help is virtually unavailable. Only highly experienced and self-sufficient climbers can safely attempt this isolated and formidable peak.
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Mountain range: Executive Committee Range
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Location: Antarctica
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Height: 4,181 m
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Special feature: Highest volcano in Antarctica and one of the most remote volcanoes on Earth
Summited in 2025
A Million Steps on Lava
Climbing the Highest Volcano of Each Continent
Embark on a boundary-pushing expedition that ignites your passion and carries you to the hearth of the world's most impressive volcanoes: the Volcanic Seven Summits. This challenge is for the determined adventurer who does not shy away from fire, ice, or unknown terrain. Travel across all continents and conquer their mighty volcanic peaks
From the icy Mount Sidley in Antarctica to the fiery crater of Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, the thin air of Ojos del Salado in Chile, the mysterious Papua, the rugged Caucasus Mountains in Russia, culture-rich Iran, and the mythical Pico de Orizaba in Mexico - this journey will change your view of adventure.
Ricardo Kaljouw, born in Vlissingen, The Netherlands, had the dream from an early age to discover the world. His adventure began below sea level, behind the dunes of Zealand, and continued at seas during his time in the Dutch Navy, where he took part in missions across the world's oceans. Later, he set his sights higher and embarked on a new challenge as a mountaineer, specializing in volcanoes. He learned, discovered, and overcame everything that came with it. After ten years of intensive dedication, he became the first Dutchman to successfully climb the Volcanic Seven Summits