Carstensz Pyramid – October 2024
In October 2024, I summited Carstensz Pyramid, the highest peak in Oceania and the most technical of the Seven Summits. At 4,884 m, it may not be the tallest, but it’s a serious climb. The route is almost entirely rock, with exposed ridges, fixed ropes, and vertical faces.
Reaching the base itself was an adventure, the mountain is tucked deep in the Papuan jungle. We flew in and then crossed through rugged terrain to reach the climb.
This expedition was a clear shift in style from the high-altitude slogs like Kilimanjaro or Elbrus. It was all about footwork, balance, and exposure. The weather was classic rainforest: wet, slick, and unpredictable. But despite the moisture and mud, the rock was solid and the climb went smoothly.
Topping out on Carstensz was the fourth summit in my Grand Slam journey, and it marked a turning point from endurance to technical skill. Each climb teaches you something new. This one was about precision, calm under pressure, and focus.