SAMAYA x NOA BARRAU

 

 

In the world of fast mountaineering, where every second counts, Noa, a photographer, videographer and athlete from Chamonix, accompanies Matteo, a living legend of ski-mountaineering, in a record attempt on Nanga Parbat. Between logistical challenges, physical feats and crucial decisions, their expedition to Pakistan is a far cry from traditional expeditions.

 

Chamonix-based athlete and content creator Noa shares his incredible adventure with world-renowned athlete Matteo. Their destination: Nanga Parbat, a fearsome 8126-meter peak in Pakistan. The objective was clear: to set a speed record in a single ascent, from base camp to summit, without oxygen and on the normal route.

 

This project took place in a unique context, with a shorter-than-usual expedition, but also with fewer participants than in previous years. "This year, there were only 12 of us at base camp, compared with 90 last year," explains Noa. This lack of presence made the expedition even more complex, not least because of the absence of sherpas beyond Camp 3, making the climb much more difficult.

 

The duo had set up three camps on the mountain, each equipped with robust tents optimized for extreme conditions. A Samaya2.0 Rose tent remained at Camp 1 for the duration of the expedition, serving as storage for essential equipment such as gas and freeze-dried food. At Camp 2, located at 6200 meters on a tapering ridge, they had set up a Samaya3.0 in assault mode, with only the poles crossed to hold it in place. This tent withstood the storms for over two weeks, housing 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 7300 meters, without a trace or fixed rope, while Noa was well below, at 6500 meters. Matteo made the difficult but wise decision to descend, preferring to ensure his own safety to find his daughter rather than risk the feat at all costs.

 

Noa also recounts the challenges of acclimatization, rotations at high altitudes, and even a paragliding adventure at nearly 6000 meters. But beyond the physical feats, it's the fundamental differences between their light, fast approach and traditional expeditions, often supported by porters and sherpas, that stand out. "It's incomparable", stresses Noa, explaining that their approach requires a monumental effort in total autonomy.

 

Between personal challenge and autonomy
Noa and Matteo's expedition to Nanga Parbat shows another facet of mountaineering, where lightness and autonomy are at the heart of the adventure. Although the record was not broken, the duo proved that fast, uncomplicated mountaineering is a discipline in itself, far removed from traditional expeditions.

 

This account bears witness to a deep commitment to the mountains, where every decision is guided by passion, but also by an acute awareness of risk. The next challenge? Perhaps another summit, another adventure, but always with the same philosophy of lightness and respect for the mountain environment.