Kathmandu : Veteran alpinist Sophie Lavaud has successfully reached the summit of Annapurna IV (7,525 m) on the night of 19–20 October 2025, completing a significant chapter of her “Honoring the Pioneers” project — a tribute to the early heroes of Himalayan mountaineering.
Lavaud, who holds French, Swiss, and Canadian citizenship, undertook the climb to mark the 75th anniversary of the first French Annapurna Expedition (1950). With this ascent, she becomes the first French, Swiss, and Canadian woman — and only the seventh woman ever — to stand on the summit of Annapurna IV.
A Climb Beyond Expectation
Describing the ascent as “more than 1,000 meters of vertical gain and much more difficult than expected,” Lavaud noted that “some 8,000-meter peaks are easier than this one.” Despite excellent overall conditions, climbers faced intense cold and wind during the final push, with the last ridge climbed without fixed ropes, demanding complete focus and commitment.
During the first summit attempt, Lavaud and her team — comprising Dawa Sangay Sherpa, Oleg, Simon, Gelu, and Pema — faced limited fixed-rope coverage. While Lavaud prudently stopped her climb, Gelu, Pema, and Oleg continued to the top. On a second push, beginning at 11 p.m., Lavaud left Camp 3 and reached the summit at around 9:00 a.m. on 20 October, before descending safely back to Camp 3 by midday.
Why Annapurna IV now?
The ascent is part of the “Honoring the Pioneers” initiative, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of the first ascent of Annapurna I (1950) by Herzog & Lachenal. Lavaud’s motivations were not record-breaking, but rooted in tribute, exploration and connection: “This project is not just about reaching a summit. It is about paying homage to those who opened the way, who ventured into the unknown with the tools, knowledge and courage of their time.”
She adds: “I always say that the summit is an instant, but the journey is the story you carry inside you.” Indeed, the final climb over the long ridge without fixed ropes, in cold Alpine-style commitment, reinforces that ethos.
Honoring the Himalayan Legacy
The Annapurna IV ascent forms part of Lavaud’s “Honoring the Pioneers” initiative, which celebrates the 75 years since the first ascent of Annapurna I by Herzog and Lachenal.
“This project is not about records,” Lavaud said. “It is about paying homage to those who opened the way, who ventured into the unknown with the tools, knowledge, and courage of their time.” She added, “The summit is an instant, but the journey is the story you carry inside you.”
Her approach — emphasizing alpine-style integrity and reflection over competition — mirrors the pioneering spirit of the early expeditions she seeks to honor.
Strong Team, Shared Success
Lavaud extended heartfelt thanks to her partner Dawa Sangay Sherpa, the fixed-rope crews, logistics and base-camp teams, and her sponsors and partners for their unwavering support. The expedition was organized and managed by Seven Summit Treks Pvt. Ltd., Lavaud’s long-term collaborator in Himalayan projects.
About Sophie Lavaud
A former executive in Geneva’s luxury and events industry, Sophie Lavaud transitioned to high-altitude mountaineering in 2012. In 2023, she became one of the few climbers — and the first woman representing three nations — to complete all 14 peaks above 8,000 meters.
Her work advocates sustainable alpinism, Sherpa recognition, and women’s empowerment in mountaineering. Lavaud’s achievements and her book “Les Quatorze 8000 de Sophie Lavaud” have brought her international acclaim.
With the successful ascent of Annapurna IV, Lavaud continues to embody the spirit of courage, respect, and perseverance that defines the great Himalayan legacy.
