- Maria Conceição becomes the first Portuguese to complete the Explorer’s Grand Slam.
- She summits Puncak Jaya, marking the final challenge in her journey.
- Only 77 people worldwide have achieved this prestigious adventure feat.
- Maria now aims to conquer all 14 of the world’s highest peaks.
On the morning of October 14, 2024, Maria Conceição made history by summiting Puncak Jaya in Indonesia, completing the revered Explorer’s Grand Slam. After 11.5 challenging hours, the UAE resident became the 77th person globally—and the first-ever Portuguese—to achieve this incredible feat.
The Explorer’s Grand Slam is considered one of the most demanding tests of endurance and mental strength, requiring participants to summit the highest mountain on each of the seven continents and ski to both the North and South Poles. With Mount Everest, Kilimanjaro, and Antarctica’s Vinson Massif behind her, Maria’s final challenge, Puncak Jaya in Oceania, solidified her legacy.
Overcome with emotion, Maria shared her excitement: “Standing on top of Puncak Jaya, realizing I’ve achieved what seemed impossible, is surreal. This has been a dream of mine for years. I want others to know that no dream is too big—persistence can turn any challenge into an accomplishment.”
Inspired by fellow UAE resident and friend Naila Kiani, who is on track to summit all 14 of the world’s highest mountains, Maria is setting her sights on a new goal. Though she’s achieved the Explorer’s Grand Slam, her drive for adventure continues—her next mission is to join the elite few who have conquered the world’s 14 peaks towering over 8,000 meters.
Maria’s determination serves as a beacon of inspiration, proving that the human spirit knows no limits. The world now waits to see what remarkable heights she will conquer next.
For more on Maria’s journey and future ambitions, visit www.mariadaconceicao.com.