Denis Urubko

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Rankings

Records

Denis Urubko's achievements are extraordinary by any measure. He is one of only a handful of climbers to have summited all 14 eight-thousanders without supplemental oxygen, and he did so as the 8th person ever. His first winter ascents of Makalu and Gasherbrum II are historic firsts that required immense physical and mental fortitude. In 2018, his selfless rescue of Adam Bielecki on K2 showcased his moral character, earning him global admiration. His recent new routes on Nanga Parbat and Manaslu demonstrate that even in his 50s, he remains at the forefront of high-altitude climbing.

AwardsDenis Urubko has received recognition primarily within the mountaineering community. He was named National Geographic Adventurer of the Year in 2018, an honor he shared with Adam Bielecki for their heroic rescue on K2. He has also been honored by the Pakistani government for his contributions to mountaineering, and his new routes have been recognized as top expeditions by Explorersweb.

Honours & Distinctions

National Geographic Adventurers of the Year

National Geographic·2018

Awarded for the rescue of Adam Bielecki on K2.

Diplomatic recognition from Pakistan

Government of Pakistan·2025

Met with Pakistan's Ambassador to Russia to honor his contributions to mountaineering and the new route on Nanga Parbat.

Rankings & Lists

Top 10 Expeditions of 2025

Explorersweb·2025

Records & Feats

First winter ascent of Makalu without supplemental oxygen

Historic First·2009

Completed in January 2009, a historic first in winter mountaineering.

First winter ascent of Gasherbrum II without supplemental oxygen

Historic First·2011

Completed in 2011, another winter climbing milestone.

8th person to summit all 14 eight-thousanders without supplemental oxygen

Career Milestone·2009

Achieved on May 20, 2009, joining an elite group of climbers.