Part 1 – The Empire Of The Volcanoes
Want to climb higher than Mount Everest? Although this may seem impossible, by climbing to over 6,000 meters above sea level on Ecuador’s imposing volcanoes, you can actually achieve the impossible. In today’s blog, we, Jahaira and Martina, will explain why and recommend the best options for different levels of fitness and difficulty.
Among giants of fire and ice: Ecuador’s map of volcanoes
Did you know that Ecuador is the third country with the most volcanoes in the world, after Indonesia and Chile? In total, the Andes, which cross the country from north to south, are home to 98 volcanoes, 21 of which are active. Most of them are lined up along the so-called Avenue of Volcanoes, which was named by the famous German explorer Alexander von Humboldt. In Ecuador you will find mountains perfect for beginner hikers, occasional climbers, and experienced mountaineers alike.
Important notice: Before planning your trip, it is essential to learn about the route and the equipment you will need, as well as food and hydration. Several peaks require you to hire a certified guide, to ensure an unforgettable and – above all safe – experience.
Which mountain is right for me?
TOP 5 mountains for beginners and acclimatization
Are you an adventurous person who wants to explore our imposing mountains, but you don’t have a lot of experience? Don’t worry, here are our best recommendations for beginners or acclimatization.
Rucu Pichincha (4,696 m)
This mountain is located very close to Quito and is easily accessible from the upper station of the TelefériQo. As you ascend, you can enjoy panoramic views of the beautiful city of Quito, which stretches from north to south. The route crosses extensive grasslands and Andean vegetation that accompany the approximately 3-hour journey to the summit.
Thanks to its proximity to Quito, Rucu Pichincha has become a popular mountain for both novice and experienced climbers. It is perfect for beginners to mountaineering, as well as for acclimatization before attempting other more demanding peaks.
Pasochoa (4,210 m)
This extinct volcano is located 39 km from Quito, within the Pasochoa wildlife refuge, a protected area of 500 hectares. If you want to get started in mountaineering gradually, this summit should be on your list. You can summit it all year round, but the best months are from June to September.
Corazón (4,790 m)
If you like to venture into mid-altitude mountains, this extinct volcano located 40 km southwest of Quito is the perfect choice. The easy ascent through the páramo grasslands requires only a few rock-climbing techniques and allows you to enjoy an extremely varied natural environment. From its summit, we can admire other mountains such as Cotopaxi, Rumiñahui, and Ilinizas Norte and Sur.
Rumiñahui (4,722 m)
Located 40 km south of Quito in the middle of a spectacular landscape, this mountain neighbors Cotopaxi and is an excellent viewpoint for the imposing volcanoes in the area. It has three peaks: north (the highest), central (the most accessible), and south (the most difficult to climb).
North Ilinizas (5,126 meters above sea level)
Finally, before climbing a high mountain, you can test your abilities on this peak, which is perfect for acclimatizing and gaining confidence on rocky terrain. This option is considered the most accessible and popular for those who want to climb a peak in one day.
Congratulations! If you managed to reach the summit of Ilinizas Norte, you are ready for bigger challenges, such as Cotopaxi, Cayambe, or Chimborazo.
TOP 5 mountains for advanced climbers
You like adrenaline rushes and have experience in mountaineering, climbing, and glacier crossing? Then the following information is for you!
Tungurahua (5,020 m)
The Tungurahua volcano, located near the city of Baños, is known as the “throat of fire” because of its name in the Quechua language. It’s a volcano that erupted frequently between 1999 and 2005. Climbing the Tungurahua Volcano is relatively easy, but due to its shape, good physical condition and ideal weather conditions are essential.
Cayambe (5,790 m)
Cayambe is the perfect preparation before tackling the peaks of Cotopaxi or Chimborazo. The effort of climbing through its massive ice formations, is rewarded with fantastic views of surrounding cities and lagoons such as Lake San Pablo and Cuicocha Lagoon as you arrive on top at sunrise.
Cotopaxi (5,897 m)
The iconic Cotopaxi is shaped like a perfectly symmetrical cone, covered by a thick blanket of snow and ice. The ascent is not very technical, but it does require alpine experience. The volcano rises gracefully from a beautiful plateau of grasslands where herds of wild horses graze or gather to drink at the beautiful Limpiopungo lagoon.
Antisana (5,755 m)
The impressive volcano has four peaks and massive ice formations. The climb itself is considered very technical and requires knowledge of mountaineering and glacier climbing. However, you’ll be rewarded with sunrise views of the incredible landscapes, mountain reflections in the surrounding lagoons and the nearby volcanoes such as Cotopaxi, Illinizas, and Chimborazo.
Chimborazo (6,263 m)
The extinct volcano, 150 km southwest of Quito, is the highest peak in Ecuador and the only one that surpasses the magical 6,000 m mark. Even more impressive, it has been proven to be the closest point to the sun due to the shape of the Earth. This means that on the summit of Chimborazo, you are standing higher than Mount Everest if you measure its height from the center of the Earth. Reaching the peak of Chimborazo is a real challenge for experienced climbers.
Let the preparations begin!
Now that you have an overview of the most attractive peaks in the Ecuadorian Andes, all that’s left is to prepare properly. Are you physically and mentally ready? Do you have the necessary technical equipment? Find out next week in part 2 of this blog!
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