Watch Top of the World

Top of the World is a travel documentary series that premiered on the Travel Channel in 2017. The show explores some of the most awe-inspiring locations on the planet – locations so high above sea level that the landscape and culture are uniquely adapted to life at altitude.

Over the course of the six-episode series, host Stephen Mangan visits six different sites around the world to learn about the people, history, and ecology that make each place so remarkable.

The show begins with an exploration of Nepal's Kathmandu Valley, home to the highest mountain range on Earth. Mangan ascends to some of the valley's highest peaks, including the famous Annapurna and Everest Base Camps, to witness the stunning vistas and meet the locals whose culture and livelihoods have been shaped by the mountains.

Next, the show moves to the Andes Mountains in South America, where Mangan travels through Peru, Bolivia, and Chile to discover the unique ways that the locals grow crops and adapt to life at high elevation. He also learns about the ancient history of the Inca Empire and visits some of the region's most stunning natural landmarks, including the spectacular Salar de Uyuni salt flats and the world's highest geyser field.

The show then heads to the Swiss Alps, where Mangan explores the centuries-old tradition of mountaineering and skiing. He also witnesses the stunning beauty of the mountain landscape, visits charming Alpine villages, and learns about the unique gastronomy of the region.

In the penultimate episode, Mangan travels to Bhutan, a small, landlocked nation in the Himalayas that has remained relatively isolated from the outside world. He meets with monks who live in monasteries perched on mountain cliffs, learns about the country's unique Gross National Happiness policy, and appreciates the stunning views of the Himalayas.

The final episode of the series takes place in Tanzania, home to Mount Kilimanjaro – the highest peak in Africa. Mangan climbs to the summit to witness the sunrise over the savanna, and also ventures into the Serengeti to experience the famous Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras.

Throughout the series, Mangan delivers insightful commentary on the local culture, history, and geology of each location, while also showcasing some of the stunning views and unique experiences that only life at altitude can offer. The show is beautifully shot, with stunning aerial footage, and Mangan's humor and curiosity make him a wonderful host to guide viewers through these incredible journeys.

Overall, Top of the World is a visually stunning and informative travel series that will appeal to anyone interested in exploring unique cultures, landscapes, and natural wonders around the world.