GILGIT: Pakistani mountaineer Samina Baig has added another historic achievement to her career by skiing to the last degree of the South Pole. The milestone marks a major step in her quest to complete the prestigious Explorer’s Grand Slam. Her journey reflects years of discipline, resilience, and commitment to extreme adventure.
The 35-year-old adventurer was part of an international expedition that reached Union Glacier on December 6. The team successfully completed the polar journey last weekend. According to expedition details, the route across the icy terrain demanded physical strength and mental endurance. For Samina Baig, the experience stood out as one of the toughest challenges of her life.
She described the expedition as deeply meaningful and transformative. In her remarks, she said the journey tested her patience and determination at every stage. She added that the experience reinforced the value of believing in dreams, even when the odds seem overwhelming. Her successful ski to the South Pole is believed to be the first by any Pakistani.
In a message shared on social media, Samina Baig highlighted the scale of her adventures so far. She recalled standing on the summit of Mount Everest in 2013, completing the Seven Summits, and climbing K2 and Nanga Parbat. She said her latest achievement has taken her from the world’s highest peaks to one of its most remote regions.
She called it a great honor to represent Pakistan across mountains, continents, and polar ice. She thanked her supporters who helped fund the expedition. She also acknowledged her family, team members, and fellow climber Nirmal Purja. She expressed gratitude to Elite Expeditions for their logistical support throughout the journey.
This South Pole achievement further strengthens Samina Baig’s position among Pakistan’s most accomplished adventurers. Her success continues to inspire young people, especially women, to pursue careers in adventure sports. Pakistan has seen limited representation in polar exploration. Notably, Namira Salim remains the first Pakistani to reach both the North and South Poles and received the Tamgha-i-Imtiaz in 2011.
Born in Shimshal village of Hunza Gojal, Gilgit-Baltistan, Samina Baig began climbing at a very young age. She trained under her brother, Mirza Ali, from the age of 15. In 2010, she became the first to climb Chashkin Sar, later named Samina Peak. She also summited Koh-i-Brobar the same year.
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Despite facing setbacks, including challenges on Spantik Peak, she continued guiding expeditions across major mountain ranges. A professional climber since 2009, she also serves as a brand ambassador for Special Communications Organization. Her journey remains a powerful symbol of perseverance and national pride.
