Afghan Climber Samuel Seddiqi Summits Aconcagua, Highest Peak in Americas
Samuel Seddiqi, an Afghan mountaineer, successfully reached the summit of Aconcagua, standing at 6,962 meters, the highest point in the Americas and one of the world’s famous “Seven Summits.” He achieved this feat on February 14, 2026, marking a new step in his international efforts to promote mountain sports in Afghanistan.
This accomplishment comes after Seddiqi previously made history in 2023 as the first Afghan citizen to stand atop Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world. Located in the Andes mountain range in South America, Aconcagua is known for its high altitude, rapid weather changes, and physically demanding conditions, making it one of the more challenging peaks for climbers.
Technical support for the expedition was provided by Grajales Expeditions, an organization with over five decades of experience guiding and providing infrastructure for ascents on Aconcagua. Their collaboration ensured a safer and more organized climb.
According to Seddiqi, his international climbs are not just personal challenges but efforts to inspire Afghanistan’s youth and draw global attention to the country’s natural potential. He stated, “Every climb is an opportunity to show the girls and boys of Afghanistan that there are no limits to achieving their goals. Mountains teach patience, responsibility, and teamwork.”
Afghanistan, with mountain ranges including the Hindu Kush, Pamir, and Koh-i-Baba, boasts diverse and high-altitude landscapes. Noshaq peak, at 7,492 meters in the eastern Hindu Kush, is the country’s highest point and is recognized as one of the region’s most difficult mountains due to its height and remote location.
Experts believe that with investment in training, safety standards, and necessary infrastructure, mountain sports and adventure tourism can become a part of Afghanistan’s sustainable development strategy—a path also pursued by the organization Afghan Peaks.
