A 9-year-old Dubai-based boy has made an impressive climb up Mount Aconcagua, the tallest mountain in the Americas. He reached 19,600 feet, making him the second youngest person in the world to achieve this feat on the formidable peak.
Ayan, a student at North London Collegiate School, Dubai, faced harsh weather conditionson his ascent alongside his parents. Although they did not reach the 22,838-foot summit due to safety concerns, Ayan’s adventurous spirit remains strong.
“I will be summiting the mountain early next year and there are other mountains in the loop this year,” he said.
The family also faced extreme temperature shifts during the expedition. Ayan had the opportunity to meet renowned mountaineer Nirmal Purja, who expressed admiration for his efforts.
Ayan has previously conquered Mt Elbrus (Russia), Mt Kilimanjaro (Tanzania), Mount Kosciuszko (Australia), and the Mt Everest base camp (Nepal). His ultimate goal is to summit the 14 tallest Himalayan peaks by the age of 16.
“Age is not a barrier,” Ayan emphasizes, crediting his parents for their continuous support and motivation.