Pakistani Mountaineer Samina Baig Skis to the Last Degree of the South Pole, Creating History

Pakistani mountaineer Samina Baig has once again made the nation proud by achieving an extraordinary feat — skiing to the last degree of the South Pole, one of the most extreme and unforgiving environments on Earth. This remarkable achievement places her among a very small group of elite explorers who have successfully completed this demanding polar expedition.

Samina Baig, already celebrated as Pakistan’s first woman to summit Mount Everest and the only Pakistani woman to climb the Seven Summits, continues to push the boundaries of human endurance. Her South Pole expedition is not just a personal milestone but a powerful symbol of resilience, determination, and courage, especially for women from developing countries.

A Journey to the Harshest Place on Earth

The “last degree” refers to the final 111 kilometres to the geographic South Pole — a stretch considered the most challenging part of any Antarctic expedition. Skiing across this vast, icy wilderness means facing temperatures that can drop below -40°C, violent winds, whiteout conditions, and complete isolation. There are no rescue options in emergencies, making the journey as dangerous as it is demanding.

Despite these brutal conditions, Samina Baig completed the expedition using skis while pulling heavy sleds carrying survival gear, food, and fuel. Every step required physical stamina, mental strength, and careful navigation across a featureless frozen landscape.
More Than a Physical Challenge

For Samina, this expedition was not only about physical endurance but also about mental resilience. Spending days in isolation, battling exhaustion, and enduring extreme cold pushes the human mind to its limits. Her success highlights the importance of preparation, discipline, and unwavering belief in one’s goals.

She has often spoken about how mountaineering and polar exploration teach patience, humility, and respect for nature — values she hopes to pass on to younger generations.
A Source of Pride for Pakistan

Samina Baig’s achievement has been widely celebrated across Pakistan. As a female adventurer in a traditionally male-dominated field, her success sends a powerful message: Pakistani women can excel on the world’s toughest stages. Her journey inspires young people, especially girls, to dream big and challenge societal limitations.

Beyond national pride, her accomplishment also places Pakistan on the global map of elite polar explorers, a space usually dominated by adventurers from wealthier nations with greater access to resources.
Advocate for Climate Awareness

Samina Baig has also used her platform to highlight the effects of climate change, particularly on polar regions and mountain ecosystems. By skiing to the South Pole, she witnessed firsthand the fragile beauty of Antarctica and the urgent need to protect it. Her expeditions often carry a message of environmental responsibility and global cooperation.
A Legacy of Inspiration

With this historic South Pole achievement, Samina Baig continues to build a legacy far beyond records and medals. She represents courage, perseverance, and the power of dreams backed by hard work. Her journey reminds the world that greatness knows no borders — and that even the coldest places on Earth can be conquered with a warm, determined heart.