: April 28, 2015
Mountaineers from all over the world are no strangers to climbing volcanoes; after all, some of the highest mountains in the world are or used to be active volcanoes. Three of Ecuador’s highest peaks, in fact, are volcanoes. While it’s been some time since they last erupted, Cayambe, Cotopaxi, and Chimborazo still present equal amounts of danger, challenge, and fun. Climbing these impressive peaks is no easy feat and definitely not for the faint of heart, but conquering a mighty force of nature can be extremely rewarding.
Before you embark on what could possibly be a life-changing journey, take care to get acclimatized first and do your research. Read on to learn more about three of Ecuador’s most popular and satisfying volcano climbs.
Cayambe
Located in the province of Pichincha, ice-capped Cayambe towers at 19,000 feet. It’s the third highest peak in Ecuador, situated approximately 40 miles from the Ecuadorian capital of Quito. Aside from being one of the world’s ultra prominent peaks, the stratovolcano is also the only mountain that lies directly on the equator. It’s best to summit the mountain during the months of October to January. Check out www.summitpost.org/cayambe/150297 for more information.
Climbing the Cotopaxi (Ecuador)
Cotopaxi
One of the highest active volcanoes in the world, forbidding Cotopaxi is a favorite among alpinists with its almost perfect conical shape. Standing at 19,347 feet, the second highest mountain in Ecuador is just roughly 31 miles from Quito. While it’s not difficult to scale Cotopaxi, it is considered a very technical climb. Hanging seracs and crevasses are commonly encountered on the way to the peak. For more information, log on to http://www.summitpost.org/cotopaxi/150311.
Chimborazo
The crowning glory of the Cordillera Occidental mountain range, Chimborazo reigns supreme among summits in Ecuador at a height of 20,564 feet. We know Mount Everest to be the highest mountain in the world, but Chimborazo’s glacier-covered summit makes it the tallest mountain when measured from the center of the earth. While you can climb it all year round, June to July and December to January are its best climbing months. Head over to http://www.summitpost.org/chimborazo/150349 to find out more about Chimborazo.