German mountaineer who became the 16th person to climb all 14 eight-thousander peaks, achieving this feat without supplemental oxygen. He's also a photographer and author, documenting his expeditions.
Ralf Dujmovits is a renowned German mountaineer who made history by becoming the 16th person, and the first German, to climb all 14 eight-thousanders – the highest peaks above 8,000 meters around the world. Born on December 5, 1961, in Bühl, Baden-Württemberg, Germany, Dujmovits has left an indelible mark on the mountaineering world with his incredible feats.
After completing his Abitur final school exams in 1981, Dujmovits spent a year traveling around South America and climbing in the Andes. He then began his degree in medicine at the University of Heidelberg but left after eight semesters to pursue his passion for mountaineering.
In 1985, Dujmovits started his training to become a certified mountain guide, which eventually led him to work with the German Alpine Club. He worked as a guide, leading clients on international expeditions to the highest mountains on six of the seven continents.
Dujmovits' mountaineering career gained momentum in the 1990s when he started climbing in the Himalaya and Karakorum ranges. He successfully ascended Dhaulagiri I in 1990, Mount Everest in 1992, K2 in 1994, Cho Oyu in 1995, and Shisha Pangma in 1997.
In 1999, Dujmovits climbed the Eiger's north wall in Switzerland, which was broadcast live on television, making him a household name. He then went on to summit Broad Peak in 1999 and Gasherbrum II in 2000.
It was after climbing Nanga Parbat in 2001 that Dujmovits decided to take on the formidable challenge of climbing all 14 eight-thousanders. Over the next eight years, he conquered Annapurna I and Gasherbrum I in 2004, Shisha Pangma in 2005, Kangchenjunga in 2006, Manaslu in 2007, Broad Peak in 2007, and Makalu in 2008.
The culmination of his dream came on May 20, 2009, when Dujmovits climbed Lhotse, his final 8,000-meter peak.
Dujmovits' incredible achievements have earned him numerous awards and recognition. He was awarded the German Sports Prize in 2009 and was named the German Mountaineer of the Year in 2005.
Ralf Dujmovits' remarkable feats have inspired countless mountaineers and adventure-seekers around the world. His determination, perseverance, and sheer bravery have cemented his place as one of the greatest mountaineers of all time.
Through his expeditions, Dujmovits has also raised awareness about the importance of environmental protection and responsible tourism in the Himalayan region.
When not conquering mountains, Dujmovits is involved in various philanthropic activities, including supporting educational projects in Nepal.
Dujmovits is also an avid photographer and has published a book featuring his stunning mountain photography.
Ralf Dujmovits' remarkable story is a testament to the power of human determination and the allure of adventure. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of mountaineers and adventure-seekers to come.
Born in 1919
First person to reach the summit of Mount Everest, leading a historic expedition in 1953, and a humanitarian who worked to improve the lives of Nepalese people.
Born in 1914
First Nepalese-Indian person to reach Mount Everest's summit, alongside Sir Edmund Hillary, marking a historic achievement in mountaineering.
80 Years Old
First person to climb all 14 eight-thousander peaks, including Mount Everest, and a renowned explorer of remote regions. He has written extensively about his expeditions and has held public office in Italy.
82 Years Old
Austrian mountaineer and skier who pioneered a new style of alpine climbing, emphasizing speed, minimal equipment, and partnership, and first ascended the North Face of the Eiger with Reinhold Messner. He's also a renowned ski instructor and author.
99 Years Old
A pioneering alpinist who conquered numerous unclimbed peaks, including Nanga Parbat, the ninth highest mountain in the world, in a daring solo ascent. His fearless and innovative approach to mountaineering inspired generations of climbers.
