SAMAYA x NOA BARRAU

 

 

In the world of fast-and-light mountaineering, where every second counts, Noa—a photographer, videographer, and athlete from Chamonix—joins Matteo, a living legend of ski mountaineering, in a record-breaking attempt on Nanga Parbat. Between logistical challenges, physical feats, and crucial decisions, their expedition in Pakistan is rooted in a philosophy of lightness and autonomy, far removed from traditional expeditions.

 

Noa, an athlete and content creator based in Chamonix, shares with us the incredible adventure experienced alongside Matteo, a world-renowned athlete. Their destination: Nanga Parbat, a formidable summit reaching 8,126 meters in Pakistan. The goal was clear: to set a speed record in a single push, from base camp to the summit, without oxygen and via the normal route.

 

This project took place in a unique context, with a shorter expedition than usual and fewer participants than in previous years. "This year, there were only 12 of us at base camp, compared to 90 last year," Noa explains. This lack of presence made the expedition even more complex, particularly due to the absence of Sherpas beyond Camp 3, making the ascent much more difficult.

 

The duo had set up three camps on the mountain, each equipped with robust tents optimized for extreme conditions. A pink Samaya2.0 tent remained at Camp 1 for the duration of the expedition, serving as storage for essential gear like fuel and freeze-dried food. At Camp 2, located at 6,200 meters on a sharp ridge, they had set up a Samaya3.0 in assault mode, using only the crossed poles to hold it in place. This tent withstood storms for more than two weeks, sheltering high-altitude suits and other essential equipment.

 

However, despite meticulous preparation and considerable effort, Matteo was unable to achieve his record. On the day of the ascent, he found himself alone at 7,300 meters, without tracks or fixed ropes, while Noa was well below, at 6,500 meters. Matteo made the difficult but wise decision to descend, choosing to ensure his safety to return to his daughter rather than risking the feat at any cost.

 

Noa also recounts the challenges of acclimatization, rotations at high altitudes, and even a paragliding adventure at nearly 6,000 meters. But beyond the physical feats, it is the fundamental differences between their light-and-fast approach and traditional expeditions—often supported by porters and Sherpas—that stand out. "It’s incomparable," Noa emphasizes, explaining that their approach demands a monumental effort in total autonomy.

 

Between personal challenge and autonomy
Noa and Matteo's expedition on Nanga Parbat shows another facet of mountaineering, where lightness and autonomy are at the heart of the adventure. Even if the record wasn't broken, the duo proved that fast mountaineering, in all its simplicity, is a discipline in itself, far from traditional expeditions.

 

This story testifies to a deep commitment to the mountains, where every decision is guided by passion, but also by a keen awareness of the risks. The next challenge? Perhaps another summit, another adventure, but always with the same philosophy of lightness and respect for the mountain environment.