In a remarkable feat of perseverance and human spirit, 86-year-old Spanish alpinist Carlos Soria has become the oldest person ever to summit one of the world’s highest mountains — Manaslu (8,163 meters), located in the Nepalese Himalayas.

On the early morning of September 26, Soria reached the peak alongside his longtime climbing partner and photographer Luis Miguel López Soriano, and Sherpa team members Mikel, Nima, and Phurba. The ascent marks not only a record-setting achievement but also a deeply personal milestone in Soria’s lifelong relationship with the mountain.

Soria’s connection with Manaslu dates back more than five decades. He participated in the first Spanish expeditions to the mountain in 1973 and 1975, though both attempts were halted before the summit — one due to weather and another while he served as a rope fixer. He finally reached the top for the first time in 2010 at age 71, and now, 15 years later, has done so again under truly extraordinary circumstances.

Despite battling age-related challenges and recovering from serious injuries — including a knee replacement in 2018 and a severe leg fracture on Dhaulagiri in 2023 — Soria and his team climbed from basecamp to summit in just three days after completing their acclimatization rotations.

However, the descent proved difficult. On the icy slopes above Camp III, Soria’s weakened legs caused him intense pain and instability. Yet, true to his lifelong philosophy, he persevered — emphasizing that success in mountaineering isn’t only about reaching the top, but about resilience, humility, and respect for nature’s power.

For young climbers and adventure athletes, Soria’s journey is a powerful reminder that age is not a limit, but a mindset. His achievement stands as an inspiration to all who continue to seek new heights — both on the mountain and within themselves.

About Manaslu:

Known as the “Mountain of the Spirit,” Manaslu is the world’s eighth-highest peak, located in the Mansiri Himal range of Nepal. It remains one of the most technically demanding climbs above 8,000 meters due to its steep ridges, unpredictable weather, and avalanche-prone slopes.

Source: Compiled from international reports