Samina Baig Makes History as First Pakistani to Ski to the South Pole, Advancing her Explorers Grand Slam Journey

Renowned Pakistani mountaineer and explorer Samina Baig has once again etched her name into global exploration history by becoming the first Pakistani to ski (111km) to the South Pole, completing one of the world’s most demanding polar expeditions and marking a major milestone in her pursuit of the Explorer Grand Slam. Samina Baig completed her essential mountaineering and survival training in Pakistan before departing on her historic expedition to the South Pole.

This historic achievement builds an extraordinary journey that began with Samina Baig becoming the first Pakistani woman to summit Mount Everest in 2013. She went on to complete the Seven Summits the highest mountains on each continent by July 2014, a feat achieved by only a handful of climbers worldwide.

Samina Baig is also the first Pakistani woman to summit K2 (8,611m), the world’s second-highest and most technically challenging mountain. Her accomplishments across high-altitude mountaineering and polar exploration together represent an Explorers Grand Slam–level journey, placing her among the world’s elite adventurers.

Beyond records and milestones, Samina’s expeditions carry a powerful message of gender equality, resilience, and empowerment. Through her journey into the most remote and unforgiving corners of the planet, she continues to inspire women in Pakistan and across the world to pursue their dreams regardless of barriers, time, or circumstances.

“Dreams are always worth pursuing,” said Samina Baig. “No matter how long the journey takes, passion, commitment, and belief can make the impossible achievable.”

Samina expressed deep gratitude to her sponsors, supporters, and well-wishers who placed their trust in her vision and supported her dream project from the Seven Summits to K2 and now the South Pole.

“This journey would not have been possible without the incredible support of my sponsors and team. Carrying the flag of Pakistan across the highest mountains and the farthest continents of the world has been the greatest honor of my life.”

With every summit and every step on polar ice, Samina Baig continues to redefine what is possible for Pakistani women in exploration, adventure, and leadership on the global stage.

Samina Baig’s Path of Achievements

• 2010 (First Major Ascent): Climbed the 6,000+ meter peak Chashkin Sar, later renamed “Samina Peak” in her honor.
• 2013 (Historic Everest Summit): Became the first Pakistani woman to summit Mount Everest at age 21.
• 2014 (The Seven Summits): Became the first Pakistani woman to complete the Seven Summits (highest peaks on each continent).
• 2022 (Conquering K2): Became the first Pakistani woman to summit K2, the world’s second-highest and most dangerous mountain.

A Mission Beyond the Mountains

From the start, Samina’s climbs have carried a purpose bigger than sport. Her brother, Mirza Ali (the first Pakistani Man to complete Seven highestest Peaks in Seven continents), has also trained her and accompanied her on many expeditions, has stated their aim is to encourage youth, ecological awareness, and empower women in adventure sports.

This mission is visible in her actions:

• Symbol of Peace: On top of Everest in 2013.
• Voice for Women: After her Everest climb, she stated she was thinking of women in Pakistan who are not allowed to get an education or pursue their dreams, hoping her climb would show families that women’s contributions are powerful.
• UN Ambassador: In 2018, she was appointed as a National Goodwill Ambassador for Pakistan by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). In this role, she advocates for climate action, environmental protection, and youth and women’s empowerment.

Legacy and Future Inspiration

Samina Baig has received the President’s Award for Pride of Performance and continues to be a role model. Reflecting on the 12th anniversary of her Everest climb, she noted that while her achievement opened doors, very few Pakistani women have followed her to the summit. Her hope is to see more opportunities created so that Pakistan’s women can shine on the world’s highest peaks.

Her story proves that with determination, support, and a clear purpose, barriers can be broken on mountains and in society.