7. Danakil Depression, Ethiopia
There are plenty of places on Earth that look like the surface of a completely different planet, but few come close to Ethiopia’s Danakil Desert in terms of sheer bizarreness. A highly active volcanic region, the depression is characterized by its colorful red, yellow and green landscape. It’s also extremely inhospitable, being one of the hottest regions on Earth. Unfortunately, the region is made even more uninviting due to border disputes with neighboring Eritrea. Best to stay away from this alluring landscape until tensions subside.
8. Mount Everest, Nepal
The ultimate goal for many enthusiastic mountaineers, the peak of Mount Everest stands just over 29,000 feet above sea level. At the summit, the air is so thin that oxygen tanks and breathing masks are essential for most climbers. Only the most experienced and skilled mountaineers should attempt to conquer this peak. Over 250 people have died attempting to reach the summit. Before 1996, one in four perished on the mountain, with many deaths being attributed to avalanches, falls, exposure and earthquakes. There are some ethical questions about whether paying tourists should be permitted to climb this treacherous peak, as guides and local Sherpas are often killed as part of this expedition business.
9. Hua Shan, China
Sometimes referred to as the Heavenly Stairs, the plank walk around the mountain of Hua Shan in China is no place for the faint of heart. The walk consists of unstable wooden boards precariously clinging to the cliffs. With no guard rails and a largely unstable construction, many lives have been claimed by the walk, which features drops of up to 7,000 feet. Fortunately, there are safer ways to explore the area, including a cable car which runs up the mountain.
