Ecuadorian Patricio Arevalo scales Everest without supplemental oxygen
Ecuadorian climber Patricio Arevalo and his Sherpa guide Ang Pemba Sherpa achieve the season’s first successful ascent following the completion of rope fixing, amid a crowded climbing season with 456 permits issued
Expedition High Mountain
Ecuadorian mountaineer Patricio Arevalo has made history as the first climber of the 2025 spring season to reach the summit of Mount Everest without the use of supplemental oxygen. Arevalo, a member of Ecuador's elite police rescue unit, accomplished this remarkable feat on Sunday, according to Kathmandu-based expedition operator Expeditions High Mountain.
Arevalo was accompanied by his Sherpa guide, Ang Pemba Sherpa, making them the first climbers of the season to stand atop the world’s highest peak. Their achievement came just two days after the rope-fixing team completed securing the route to the summit, a milestone that usually triggers a wave of summit attempts.
However, this year’s ascent unfolded under unique circumstances. Expedition teams were unable to establish Camp IV in time when the summit route opened, resulting in a delayed push to the top. Despite these challenges, Arevalo and Ang Pemba Sherpa successfully reached the peak, demonstrating exceptional endurance and skill.
Arevalo is no stranger to high-altitude adventures. As a member of Ecuador's elite police rescue unit, he has previously undertaken demanding expeditions in the Andes. His successful ascent of Everest without supplemental oxygen further cements his reputation as a distinguished mountaineer and explorer.
This spring season has seen high interest from climbers worldwide. According to the Nepal Department of Tourism, 456 permits have been issued to climbers attempting Everest, divided among 45 expedition groups. The first wave of climbers began their summit bids on Saturday, following the installation of fixed ropes to the summit by Sherpa teams on May 9.
