A journey through winter K2, the 14 eight-thousanders in animal-free gear, and the story of an extreme, ethical and deeply human approach to mountaineering
Mingma Tenzi Sherpa is one of the most important Himalayan mountaineers of his generation, recognized internationally both as a high-altitude guide and as the protagonist of some of the most challenging ascents ever made on the 8,000-meter peaks.
Originally from Nepal, he has become a key figure among specialists of the great mountains: within the Himalayan community he is considered “the go-to man” for the most technical climbs and for fixing ropes on peaks above 8,000 meters. Over the course of his career, he has completed more than twenty ascents of 8,000ers, including numerous climbs of Everest.
He drew the world’s attention in 2021, when he took part in the historic first winter ascent of K2, the second-highest mountain on the planet and one of the most dangerous. That achievement, accomplished with a team of Nepalese climbers, was described as “the last great problem of Himalayan mountaineering” and marked a turning point in international recognition of the role of Sherpa guides.
In 2025, Mingma Tenzi wrote a new chapter in mountaineering history: he completed the ascent of all 14 of the world’s 8,000-meter peaks using exclusively animal-free gear, that is, equipment without down, wool, or any other animal-derived materials. The final summit was Cho Oyu, which concluded a multi-year project dedicated to proving that it is possible to face the most extreme conditions on Earth with an ethical and sustainable approach. He is the first known mountaineer to have climbed all fourteen 8,000ers with this radical choice.
Join us on Monday, November 17, for an exclusive evening with Mingma Tenzi Sherpa, one of the world’s greatest mountaineers. Mingma will share his incredible story of resilience, courage, and perseverance — from the winter ascent of K2 to the historic milestone he reached last October, when he completed all 14 eight-thousanders using only animal-free gear.
We will also celebrate his Mntn Journal cover story, together with artist Emiliano Ponzi, who illustrated it, Margherita Tizzi, editor-in-chief of Mntn Journal, and Nicolas Bargi, founder of Save The Duck.
The talk will be followed by a Q&A session and magazine signing, and limited-edition copies of Mntn Journal will be available for purchase at Salotto.
