When people talk about legendary climbers in the Himalayas, one name that continues to inspire across generations is Carlos Soria Fontán. Born in 1939 in Ávila, Spain, Soria has rewritten the history of mountaineering with his determination, endurance, and record-breaking climbs at an age when most people retire from adventurous pursuits.
Known worldwide as one of the oldest mountaineers to attempt and summit multiple 8,000-meter peaks, Carlos Soria Fontán has left an indelible mark on Nepal’s mountaineering history. From Annapurna to Kangchenjunga and now his most recent return to Manaslu at 86 years old in 2025, his story is nothing short of inspiring.
Early Life of Carlos Soria Fontán
Carlos Soria Fontán grew up in Spain during a time when mountaineering was far from mainstream. Despite economic hardships, he discovered his passion for mountains as a teenager while hiking in the Sierra de Guadarrama. He trained himself in climbing techniques, often balancing his job as an upholsterer with his love for exploration.
Unlike many professional climbers who began early careers in alpine clubs or international competitions, Carlos Soria Fontán was a self-made mountaineer. His persistence, curiosity, and discipline helped him overcome challenges and eventually stand on top of the world’s most dangerous peaks.
Carlos Soria Fontán and the Himalayan Connection
For decades, Nepal’s Himalayas have been a second home to Carlos Soria Fontán. He has climbed in the region more than most professional climbers, tackling 12 of the 14 eight-thousanders, many of them after the age of 60.
Some of his most significant Himalayan achievements include:
K2 at age 65 – becoming one of the oldest to scale the Savage Mountain.
Broad Peak at 68.
Makalu at 69.
Gasherbrum I at 70.
Kangchenjunga at 75.
Annapurna at 77.
Manaslu multiple attempts, including his historic 2025 return at 86 years old.
These climbs not only highlight his skill but also his unbreakable bond with Nepal. Every climb was made possible with the support of Nepali guides, Sherpas, and the deep cultural hospitality of the Himalayan region.
Carlos Soria Fontán – Oldest Mountaineer to Summit Manaslu
One of the defining moments in his long career is his attempt to become the oldest mountaineer to summit Manaslu. Standing at 8,163 meters, Manaslu is the eighth-highest mountain in the world, located in Nepal.
In 2025, at the age of 86, Carlos Soria Fontán returned to Nepal to honor the 50th anniversary of the first Spanish ascent of Manaslu in 1975. His expedition, supported by Seven Summit Treks, was closely followed by climbers and fans worldwide.
Although Manaslu is considered less technical compared to K2 or Annapurna, the mountain poses serious risks: avalanches, unpredictable weather, and thin air at extreme altitude. For an 86-year-old climber, the challenge is multiplied, yet Soria continues to show the world that age is no barrier to passion.
Carlos Soria Fontán and Dhaulagiri – The Unfinished Dream
Among the 14 eight-thousanders, Dhaulagiri in Nepal has been one of the biggest challenges for Carlos Soria Fontán. He has attempted it several times but has not yet reached its summit.
In 2023, during one of his expeditions to Dhaulagiri, he suffered a leg fracture, forcing him to abandon the climb. Despite this injury, he remained determined and even stronger in spirit. His unfinished dream of summiting Dhaulagiri symbolizes his relentless character.
For many Nepalis and mountaineering enthusiasts, his story is a reminder that persistence matters more than the result.
Records and Achievements of Carlos Soria Fontán
Carlos Soria Fontán has a long list of records:
First person to summit 10 eight-thousanders after turning 60.
Oldest climber on Kangchenjunga (75 years old).
Oldest climber on Annapurna (77 years old).
One of the oldest climbers to attempt Dhaulagiri and Manaslu.
Over 60 years of mountaineering experience across the Alps, Andes, and Himalayas.
What makes Carlos Soria Fontán special is not just his records but his mindset. He often says that the mountains gave him a new life, a chance to know the world, and to stay strong physically and mentally.
Inspiring quotes from him include reflections on perseverance, humility, and the importance of teamwork with Sherpas and fellow climbers. His adventures prove that age is just a number when passion is strong.
For Nepal, his expeditions also highlight the importance of sustainable tourism and responsible climbing. His respect for the mountains and local culture sets an example for younger climbers.
In 2025, news about Carlos Soria Fontán spread worldwide as he returned to Nepal’s Himalayas for another Manaslu attempt. At 86 years old, his determination shocked and inspired mountaineers globally.
With modern equipment, medical support, and Sherpa guidance, he continues to demonstrate that the human spirit has no limits. His journey is also a tribute to Spain’s mountaineering history and its deep connection with Nepal.
FAQs About Carlos
Q1: Who is Carlos Soria Fontán?
Carlos Soria Fontán is a Spanish mountaineer born in 1939, famous for being the oldest climber to summit multiple 8,000-meter peaks, especially in Nepal.
Q2: What mountains has Carlos Soria Fontán climbed in Nepal?
He has climbed Annapurna, Kangchenjunga, Manaslu (attempts), and attempted Dhaulagiri several times.
Q3: Is Carlos Soria Fontán the oldest mountaineer to summit Manaslu?
Yes, at 86 years old in 2025, he returned to Nepal aiming to become the oldest mountaineer to summit Manaslu.
Q4: How many eight-thousanders has Carlos Soria Fontán climbed?
He has successfully summited 12 of the 14 eight-thousanders.
Q5: What peaks are still left for Carlos?
As of 2025, the two peaks left are Dhaulagiri (Nepal) and Shisha Pangma (Tibet).
The story of Carlos is not just about mountaineering it is about resilience, inspiration, and the undying human will to explore. His climbs in Nepal continue to inspire locals and international climbers alike.
As the oldest mountaineer to summit Manaslu and one of the most respected figures in Himalayan climbing, Carlos has shown that passion never ages. His expeditions in Nepal are living proof that adventure belongs to all generations. For Nepal’s tourism and global mountaineering culture, his legacy will remain timeless.
