6 Oldest People to Climb Mount Everest Ever

Scaling Mount Everest is a feat that requires extraordinary physical and mental strength, and for some climbers, age is no obstacle. Over the years, several seasoned adventurers have taken on the challenge in their later years, proving that it’s never too late to reach new heights. These remarkable climbers, many in their 70s, 80s, and even beyond, have braved the world’s tallest peak, inspiring others with their determination and resilience. Here are some of the oldest people to have summited Everest, each with their own unique journey and motivation for taking on this incredible challenge.

Yasuko Namba

Japanese climber Yasuko Namba summited Everest in 1996 at the age of 47, becoming the second Japanese woman to reach the top of the world. Born on February 2, 1947, her climb was part of her broader goal to complete the Seven Summits—climbing the highest peaks on each continent. Her Everest ascent was marked by determination, although she tragically lost her life during the infamous 1996 disaster on the mountain. Her story is remembered for her bravery and dedication to mountaineering, as she defied traditional expectations for women in climbing. Her achievement inspired many Japanese climbers, especially women, to pursue their own high-altitude goals.

Kenton Cool

British mountaineer Kenton Cool climbed Mount Everest in 2022 at the age of 49, showcasing his mountaineering prowess by summiting the peak for the 16th time. Born on July 30, 1973, he has established a strong reputation as a guide and professional climber, known for leading successful expeditions. Although relatively young compared to others on this list, his experience and skills exemplify the dedication required to repeatedly scale the world’s tallest mountain. His accomplishments extend beyond Everest; he has completed the Everest Triple Crown, summiting Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse in a single expedition without returning to base camp. His numerous climbs highlight his stamina and passion for high-altitude climbing, making him one of the UK’s most accomplished mountaineers. Today, he remains active in the mountaineering world, inspiring climbers of all ages.

Ang Rita Sherpa

Ang Rita Sherpa, known as the “Snow Leopard,” was the oldest person to summit Everest without supplemental oxygen at the age of 51 in 1996. Born in Nepal in 1948, he made a total of 10 ascents of Everest without oxygen, setting records that are yet to be matched. His 1996 summit without oxygen, a feat he accomplished during an especially challenging season, demonstrated his incredible physical resilience and skill as a high-altitude climber. He was revered for his knowledge of Everest and his exceptional adaptability to the mountain’s thin air, even as he aged. Although he never reached the peak at an older age, his achievements made him a legend in the mountaineering world. His career influenced many younger climbers who saw him as an icon of strength and experience. He passed away in 2020, but his legacy endures as a standard of high-altitude endurance.

Carlos Soria Fontán

Spanish mountaineer Carlos Soria Fontán reached the summit of Mount Everest in 2011 at the age of 72, achieving this remarkable feat as one of his many high-altitude climbs. Born on February 5, 1939, his passion for climbing began in his youth, and he has continued to pursue challenging ascents throughout his life. He is one of the few climbers who has successfully climbed 12 of the world’s 14 tallest mountains, each over 8,000 meters. His 2011 Everest ascent was notable because he had already faced knee surgery, proving that physical challenges couldn’t deter his goals. His journey to Everest required immense stamina and resilience, especially given his lifelong battle with arthritis. Despite his age, he has maintained rigorous training and regularly sets out on expeditions. As of November 2024, he is 85 years old and still actively pursues mountaineering, embodying a spirit of perseverance admired worldwide.

Min Bahadur Sherchan

Nepalese mountaineer Min Bahadur Sherchan set the record in 2008 as the oldest person to summit Everest at 76 years old. Born on June 20, 1931, in Myagdi district, Nepal, he was a former British Gurkha soldier who took up mountaineering later in life. His 2008 ascent was a significant achievement, especially considering he began serious climbing endeavors in his 70s. In 2013, Japanese climber Yuichiro Miura surpassed his record by summiting at age 80. Determined to reclaim his title, he attempted another ascent in 2017 at the age of 85 but tragically passed away at Everest Base Camp before making the climb. His dedication to mountaineering in his later years remains an inspiration to many. He is remembered as a national hero in Nepal, inspiring both the young and the elderly.

Yuichiro Miura

In 2013, at the age of 80, Japanese alpinist Yuichiro Miura became the oldest person to summit Mount Everest. Born on October 12, 1932, in Aomori City, Japan, he had previously summited Everest at ages 70 and 75, showcasing his enduring passion for mountaineering. His 2013 ascent was particularly remarkable given his history of heart surgeries in 2006 and 2007. His adventurous spirit was evident early on; in 1970, he became the first person to ski down Everest, a feat documented in the Academy Award-winning film “The Man Who Skied Down Everest.” His 2013 climb was not just a personal achievement but also a testament to human resilience and determination. As of November 2024, he is 92 years old and remains a celebrated figure in the mountaineering community. 

This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.

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