BBC - Travel - How to climb a South American volcano Hiking How to climb a South American volcano The Andes is pocked with snow-capped volcanic cones, offering towering ice spires, sulphurous craters and stunning altiplano views to the aspiring volcano-bagger. By Gabi Mocatta 21 March 2013 There is something magical about volcanoes. In the mind’s eye, their ice-frosted peaks rise perfect and cylindrical, topped with cotton-wool wisps of white smoke like the mystical mountains of fairy tales. They embody an awe-inspiring power; even when they are dormant we imagine them cloaked with mantles of fiery lava, cannoning rocks and spewing mushrooming clouds of ash. And climbing a volcano holds a special satisfaction: when you arrive at the top, you can not only marvel at the bird’s eye view all around, but also at the chilling view inside the mountain. Related article: Reviving Chile's Andean heritage The young geology of the Andes – the mountain range that runs along the western coast of South America – is pocked with snow-capped volcanic cones.

While many are breathtakingly high, several have the gradually inclined slopes of the imagined volcano, offering non-technical routes to aspiring volcano-baggers. Although these high-altitude mountains should not be taken lightly – summiting them demands the proper equipment, acclimatisation and usually a professional guide – anyone who is physically fit and mentally tough can climb them. El Misti, Peru – 5,822m This is the classic first-time volcano-bagger’s peak. Just outside the city of Arequipa in southern Peru, El Misti rears high above its parched surroundings as a perfect volcanic cone. This is still an active volcano – it last erupted in 1985. Contract a guide in Arequipa to transport you by 4x4 to the base of the mountain, from where it is a two-day hike to the top, with an airy camp at 4,500m on the mountain’s gravel-strewn slopes. From here, set off in the dark to summit before midday, then it is a fast, sliding descent down chutes of fine ash and scree. El Misti is best climbed between July and November when there is the least amount of snow and the views are clearest.

There is no permanent ice cap, making this a straightforward trek on rock and shifting volcanic ash, though an ice axe and crampons may be needed in a snowy season. Near the summit is a sulphurous yellow crater with bubbling mud and volcanic fumaroles hissing gas. Ampato, Peru – 6,248m Situated in remote, dry country 100km northwest of Arequipa, dormant Ampato is perhaps best known as the last resting place of the Ice Maiden , the Inca child whose mummified body was discovered by archaeologists near the volcano’s peak in 1995. Most Ampato summiteers make it to the peak in three or four days round trip from Arequipa, camping at 5,000m and 5,500m to aid acclimatisation. Both the altitude and the terrain make this climb a little more complicated than El Misti; there is some glacier travel and some scrambling to the summit ridge, so contracting a guide is advisable: Pablo Tour has an excellent reputation.

Trek highlights include camping in the empty desert dryness (you will need to carry extra water on parts of this route) and the incredible views of the surrounding plains and the Cordillera Ampato – the Ampato mountain range which is a sub-range of the Andes . This includes the active volcano Sabancaya (5,976m), which may be fuming gently as you climb. Cotopaxi, Ecuador ­– 5,897m Although this volcano lies close to the equator, Cotopaxi’s imposing height puts this mountain’s head in the clouds often enough to give it a permanent cap of ice and snow. In fact, this is one of the world’s highest active volcanoes: its last major eruption was in 1903, and seismic activity on the mountain was noted as recently as 2002. The centrepiece of the beautiful, alpine Parque Nacional Cotopaxi , the volcano is one of the most climbed in Latin America; most get to the summit and back in a two-day trip.

A gravel road goes to 4,600m, and a cold, cramped night is spent at the refugio (mountain hut) at 4,800m. Bring earplugs (it can be noisy sleeping amongst all the other trekkers) and a down sleeping bag and jacket as temperatures plummet once the sun sets. The summit day begins in headlamp light at 1 am, when a line of trekkers kicks crampon spikes into the crunchy snow and trudge slowly to the peak, hoping to summit at dawn. Outfitters in Quito, about 75km south of Cotopaxi, offer all manner of Cotopaxi climbs, often combined with mountain biking, horse riding and hiking or camping in the park. But the best place to stay, acclimatise, arrange your climb and enjoy the wonderful Ecuadorian estancia (ranch) ambience is Hacienda El Porvenir , set in the sparse, high country just outside the park. Chimborazo, Ecuador – 6,267m This volcano is wilder, bigger, remoter, colder and windier than Cotopaxi.

In fact, because of its location just one degree south of the equator where the Earth’s crust is thickest, Chimborazo is the world’s highest mountain if measured from the planet’s centre – taller, by this measure, than Everest. Located in southwestern Ecuador, 30km southeast of the city of Riobamba, dormant Chimborazo rises out of the high altitude grassland known as puna, where sheep and wild vicuñas graze – though glaciers shroud the mountain’s peak. The summit takes two to three days round trip from the Whymper Refuge – a simple lodge where you can spend the night at 5,000m. However, climbs are often disrupted by bad weather, and waiting for a weather window can take many days. Chimborazo is a more technical climb than Cotopaxi, but several companies, including Mountain Madness , offer guided treks as well as mountaineering training, making its peak an exhilarating, but attainable challenge, even to mountain novices.

Parinacota, Bolivia/Chile border – 6,348m Straddling the border between Sajama National Park in Bolivia and Lauca National Park in Chile, this mountain is one of two photogenic volcano “twins”, known as Los Cerros de Payachata. Though Parinacota has not been active in its recent history, it is still considered potentially active, rather than dormant. With slopes inclined at a consistent 35 degrees, Parinacota’s flanks offer routes on rock, snow and ice, which require crampons and an ice axe but do not demand much technical mountain ability. One unpredictable feature of Parinacota is the snow formation known as penitentes , thin, icy spires that can grow several metres tall and can make progress difficult, or even impossible by blocking the usual climbing routes. Reputable guides can advise of current conditions on the mountain and can arrange the logistics of getting you to the summit. Both the Bolivian capital of La Paz, 300km to the north, or Arica on the Chilean coast, 180km to the west, are possible starting points for a Parinacota climb.

La Paz is possibly the better option because it is located at an altitude of 3,650m, so that you can start your altitude acclimatisation here. The rewards of this three-day up-and-back climb are the incredible views over the dry altiplano and a thrilling peek into the ice-crusted craters of these volcano twins. Villarica, Chile – 2,847 m This volcano does not offer the rarefied, high altitude challenge of those listed above, but it is one of the most active in the Andes , so chances are you may see plumes of volcanic gasses and even some lava. Though this mountain is not significantly lofty, at 39 degrees south of the equator it is sufficiently cold to support 40sqkm of glacier. Villarica, and the eponymous national park that surrounds it, are close enough to the town of Pucón that trekkers can make it to the summit and back in one day, meaning you can stay somewhere luxurious like the beautiful lakeside spa Aldea Naukana , before and after your assault on the volcano.

In winter (May to November) the slopes of Villarica become a ski resort with excellent off-piste touring on the volcano’s flanks. Guides like Sur Expediciones in Pucón, and also your hosts at Aldea Naukana, offer winter skiing and summer trekking to the summit of the Villarica, volcanic activity permitting. Ojos del Salado, Chile/Argentina border – 6,893m This is the monster: the highest volcano on Earth, rising out of the grey moonscape of the Atacama Desert . Volcanic activity on Ojos del Salado has been as recent as 1994 – and sulphuric acid fumes still sometimes waft around its peaks. The mountain can be climbed from either country. From Copiapó on the Chilean side, it is possible, in theory – conditions permitting, and if the vehicle you contract can handle it – to travel by 4x4 as high as 5,800m. In 2007, a Chilean expedition on the mountain reached the highest altitude ever attained by motorised vehicle: 6,688m.

From the Argentine side, 4x4 access and guided treks can be arranged with locals in the village of Fiambalá or pre-booked with a commercial mountain guiding company such as Aymará Expeditions in Mendoza. Though the route up is mostly a walk – and to avoid altitude sickness, most trekkers do make a slow, walking ascent, rather than using a vehicle to cover distance on the mountain itself – a hands-and-feet scramble near the summit might stymie you unless you have a head for heights. Towering penitentes can also sometimes block the route. Above all, be prepared for wind, sun and nights of bone-chilling cold. This is raw, awesome nature – perhaps the most extreme high-altitude experience attainable for non-mountaineering mortals.

Guided Climbs Cotopaxi, Chimborazo - Ecuador Volcanoes - Mountain Madness All-inclusive Mountain Madness-style: learn more Elevations: Guided climbs of Cayambe 18,997 feet/5790 meters, Cotopaxi 19,348 feet/5897 meters, and Chimborazo 20,703 feet/6310 meters Options: Itineraries of 11 days (Cayambe & Cotopaxi) or 15 days (includes Chimboarazo) Extensions: Galapagos Islands or a Jungle Adventure with the Huaorani People The combination of challenging volcano climbs, charming haciendas, amazing food, and great Ecuadorian and American guides makes this one of our most enjoyable adventures and one of the best introductions to high altitude mountaineering for advanced beginners. Before climbing Cayambe, Cotopaxi, and Chimborazo you'll explore the city of Quito and the Indian village of Otavalo, where shoppers delight in the variety of handmade goods. After a skills review, we’re off to climb.

"As a first time mountain climber and international traveler I didn't know what to expect. The trip exceeded my expectations in every aspect - the guides, the people, the food, the accommodations, the culture and luckily the weather. A truly memorable experience and one I will look back on for years to come."Ryan O. Ecuador’s famous “Avenue of the Volcanoes” offers some of the finest beginner-intermediate mountaineering in the Andes, set amid a fascinating cultural backdrop. While climbing Cayambe, Cotopaxi, and Chimborazo we’ll encounter crevassed glacier travel, 35-40 degree snow and ice slopes, and beautiful ridges. This trip offers the very best of a wonderful country, spectacular mountains, and diverse climbing opportunities. Read more about the country and climbs here . Mount Chimborazo is Actually the Highest Point on Earth - Condé Nast Traveler Mount Chimborazo is Actually the Highest Point on Earth Share via Pinterest Despite misconceptions, Mount Chimborazo is higher than Mount Everest.

If there’s one thing everyone knows about mountains—and given the state of geography education today, that may be a pretty accurate estimate—it’s that Mount Everest, in the Himalayas, is the Earth’s highest point. But what if it wasn’t? What if Everest, with its famous 29,029-foot peak, was actually dwarfed by a mountain you’ve probably never even heard of, an Ecuadorian volcano called Chimborazo? View Mount Chimborazo in a larger map Mount Chimborazo is an Andean stratovolcano in central Ecuador, looming so impressively over the country that, on a clear day, you can see it all the way from the large port city of Guayaquil, 90 miles away. Chimborazo is Ecuador’s highest point, but in terms of elevation, it’s far from the highest peak in the Andes. In fact, there are almost 40 more impressive mountains in South America, many of which (like Aconcagua, the continent’s highest peak) are located farther south, near the Chile-Argentina border. So how is the 30-somethingth highest mountain in the Andes simultaneously the highest point on Earth?

The central problem here is that Pythagoras, Columbus, and your elementary school teachers were all wrong: Earth isn’t really round. Well, it’s round-ish, but it’s not a sphere. The combined effects of gravity and rotational centrifugal force have pushed the Earth’s mass outward around its middle. Imagine hula-hooping for a few hours after a big Thanksgiving dinner and you’ll get the idea. The resulting shape is often called an “oblate ellipsoid”: slightly flatter at the poles and bulgier at the equator than you’d expect. This bulge isn’t huge—a deviation of about one part in 300 from a perfect sphere—but it’s enough to mess with cartography. Chimborazo tops out at 20,702 feet, almost two miles lower than Everest. But that’s only compared to sea level. If we take the equatorial bulge into account—in other words, if we measure what peak is farthest from the center of the Earth—Chimborazo sticks more than 7,000 feet farther into space than any of the Himalayas do, since they’re located thousands of miles north of the Equator.

So, to quote Obi-Wan Kenobi, “what I told you was true—from a certain point of view.” Hawaiians are quick to point out that Mauna Kea, the volcano that forms the peak of the state’s big island, is also taller than Everest—if you measure from its base. Everest only rises about 13,000 feet above its base, less than half of Mauna Kea’s 33,000-foot rise. The problem, of course, is that the Hawaiian mountain’s “base camp” sleeps with the fishes at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean. Give Mauna Kea a fair start by moving it to the Himalayas, and it would be by far the highest peak on Earth. Ecuador's Volcanoes Expeditions - San Juan Mountain Guides details & policies Climb Cayambe, Cotopaxi, & Chimborazo Ecuador is one of the world’s most varied countries. From the Pacific, the land rises to the high central region–“The Avenue of the Volcanoes”–before dramatically dropping off into the Amazon Basin.

Our 11 day Cayambe & Cotopaxi Expedition with the 3 day Chimborazo Extension Option is our most popular trip in Ecuador. This expedition affords you the ability to climb all three of Ecuador’s most well known volcanoes, and have plenty of time in between to visit historic and cultural sites, not to mention a little rest and relaxation to boot. This is the best trip on which to see the bulk of Ecuador’s Sierra region, as well as some of the Amazon jungle near Banos, Ecuador’s adventure capital. A good mix of culture and climbing can be found on all of our Ecuador Volcanoes Expeditions. The physically strenuous climbing days are mixed with peaceful rest days in unique villages and towns. Rest and acclimatization day activities include visiting local artisan markets, soaking in mineral hot springs, lodging and dining in historic haciendas, and visiting churches, plazas, and museums. Members should have prior basic mountaineering experience and need to be in excellent physical shape, however, no previous glacier experience is required as we introduce and practice these skills before each ascent.

Climb to 6000 Meters The peaks of Cayambe (18,997 ft.), Cotopaxi (19,348 ft.), and Chimborazo (20,703 ft.) are unsurpassed for acquiring high altitude climbing experience in a wonderful country. The culture – and the climbing – can’t be beat. Perfect for the climber who is ready to bring basic mountaineering skills into the high-altitude arena. Our guides are highly experienced at organizing and running our trips in South America, and we utilize unparalleled local logistics to ensure that our trips run flawlessly. The SJMG Difference SJMG has been running programs in Ecuador since the late 90’s. As a result, we have developed an in-depth understanding of what it takes to manage the overall flow of the Ecuador Volcanoes Expedition. From a refined and time-tested itinerary, up-to-date and detailed knowledge of the routes on Cayambe, Cotopaxi, and Chimborazo, to choosing the perfect hotels and other local operators – you can rest assured that our program represents the best in the industry when it comes to the execution of all the little details that help make this a rewarding and successful experience.

As a blind climber, I’ve done expeditions all around the world and dealt with all kinds of local outfitters and guide services; San Juan Mountain Guides is the best! – Erik Weihenmeyer Ecuador’s Volcanoes Itinerary Itinerary Note Climbs of Cayambe and Cotopaxi are part of our 11 day itinerary, and the 3 day extension climb of Chimborazo is optional – though highly recommended. Travel in South America can, at times, present some unique challenges regard to program logistics. Therefore, a flexible “easy-going” attitude will serve you well. Day 1 Depart U.S. for Quito arriving late evening. We will be there to pick you up at the airport and transport you to our hotel – The Reina Isabel. Day 2 Spend today in Quito acclimating. Optional historic city tour of Old Quito. Quito sits at approximately 10,000′ so this day represents an important step in our acclimatization schedule. Overnight at The Reina Isabel. Day 3 Today we will attempt to hike Gua Gua Pinchincha, utilizing the Telepherique (Gondola) to access the upper trail.

This hike/climb takes us to almost 15,000′ and though relatively easy, offers and excellent opportunity to further our acclimatization. Overnight at the Reina Isabel. Day 4 Today we’ll travel north towards Otovalo, which has gained fame for it’s expansive market. Along the way, we will attempt another acclimatization hike on Fuya Fuya (13,986′). Overnight at the Hotel Otovalo. Day 5 In the morning we will visit the famous Otovalo Market, then travel to the trailhead for the hike to the Cayambe Hut. Approximately 1.5 hours of hiking takes us to the climber’s hut (15,300′). Day 6 Today we will review basic mountaineering skills and techniques at the toe of the glacier on Cayambe. This serves as our final tune-up and preparation prior to our climb the following day. We’ll return to the climber’s hut in the afternoon and rest as we will be getting up early for the climb the next day. Day 7 Summit day on Cayambe (18,997′).

An early alpine start gets us moving for the ascent of Cayambe weaves through broken glacier terrain to a point near the summit crater where often times a gaping bergschrund provides an exciting climax to the climb. After the climb we will descend and transfer to Cotopaxi National Park where we will stay at Chilcabamba which offers fantastic views of Cotopaxi. Day 8 A rest day at the Chilcabamba lodge. Many participants choose to enjoy a leisurely horseback ride in the mid-morning. Overnight at Chilcabamba. Day 9 After a leisurely breakfast we’ll load our gear into our vehicle and drive to the trailhead on Cotopaxi. After about 1.5 hours of hiking we’ll reach the Jose Ribas Hut (16,000′) and relax prior to our climb for the next day. Day 10 Summit day on Cotopaxi (19,348′). Complex crevasse patterns and snowbridge crossings over deep crevasses keep the climb interesting and provide impressive photo opportunities of amazing ice formations. After passing through a heavily crevassed area midway through the climb, we reach the final summit slope.

Here, a challenging section of 35-40 degree snow leads to the abrupt finish of the climb on the crater rim of the world’s highest active volcano. We’ll descend and spend the night at the historic La Cienaga. Day 11 An early morning transfer back to Quito and our outbound flights. Chimborazo Extension participants will continue on to Banos for a little rest, relaxation, and an overnight at The Samurai Hotel. Chimborazo Extension Itinerary (3 days) Day 12 A full rest day in Banos (6500′). Our unique itinerary allows you to explore the jungle, visit other local cultural sites, and generally enjoy what is known as Ecuador’s Adventure Capital. Overnight at Samurai. Day 13 After a leisurely breakfast we will drive to the lower hut on Chimborazo, then hike approximately 1 hr. to the Whymper Hut (16,400′) on Chimborazo. We’ll relax and organize ourselves for the climb that night/following day. Day 14 Summit Day on Chimborazo.

From the hut, the standard route up the western flank makes a gradual ascent (30-35 degree slopes) up a glacial ramp to gain the long summit ridge through what is known as “El Corredor”. The technical challenges involve negotiating crevasses, a couple of short 40 degree headwalls (100-300 ft.), and sustained travel on firm glacial snow for more than 4000 feet! We depart in the middle of the night, ensuring that our 12-14 hour roundtrip is completed before the intense equatorial sunlights softens the glaciers. After our summit we will return to Quito and enjoy a celebratory dinner. Fly home. Ecuador’s Volcanoes Expedition Equipment List Duffel Bag: Large durable bag for airline and in-country travel and organization. Backpack: Internal frame, 50-60 liters max. Guides’ pick: Osprey Aether 60 or Variant 52 Sleeping bag: Down or synthetic bag rated between 15-20 degrees with compression stuff sack.

Guides’ pick: Neutrino Endurance 400 Pocket knife: 2-3 inch blade, simple, light Small thermos: Optional, but nice to have Water bottles: 2 liters combined capacity; bottles or bladder. Guides’ pick: Nalgene or Platypus Water Bottle Insulators: OR or similar sleeve type water bottle insulators Clothing and Personal Equipment Travel Clothing: 2 sets of travel/town clothing is usually suffiicient Hiking boots: Lightweight hiking boots or approach shoes for acclimatization hikes and around town. Socks: 2-3 pair of medium weight wool or synthetic blend socks. Base layers: Synthetic t-shirt and synthetic long underwear Mid-weight Layer: For over your long underwear and under other external layers. Guides’ Pick: OR Centrifuge Jacket Soft shell pants: Warm enough for cool mornings and nights, yet light enough for warm days. Guides’ Pick: OR Cirque Pant Soft shell jacket: Your workhorse jacket with a hood. Guides’ Pick: OR Alibi Jacket Insulated Jacket: Down or synthetic with a hood. Guides’ pick: OR Virtuoso Hoody Hard shell jacket: waterproof and breathable, no insulation.

Guides’ Pick: OR Axiom Jacket Gloves: 3 pair. 1 mid-weight, 1 heavy-weight, 1 light-weight. Bring mittens if you get cold hands easily. Hand Warmers: 2 – 3 packets to stick in your gloves. Hats: one with brim, one for warmth Balaclava: BUFF’s are also acceptable. Sunglasses: With Category 4 lenses. Goggles: A standard paid of ski goggles will suffice. Sunscreen and lip balm: water/sweat-proof. SPF 50 or higher recommended. Headlamp: with extra batteries. Guides’ pick: Black Diamond Spot Toiletries: Toilet paper, baggie for used TP, toothbrush/paste, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, etc. Personal first-aid kit: for your personal meds/needs; guide will have a large one as well Stuff sacks: for convenient packing Digital Camera Book and/or iPod/iPad Lunch food: Everything you eat between breakfast and dinner. May include: bagels, dried meats, cheese, trail mix, candy bars, peanut butter, etc… Climbing Equipment Harness: Adjustable leg loops are essential. Locking carabiner (2): Pear shaped, wide mouth.

Non-locking carabiners (4): Wire gate biners are best Helmet Boots: Hiking boots, or alpine boots – many options. No tennis shoes. Crampons: General mountaineering crampons Mountaineering Axe: 60 – 70 cm mountain axe Training & Follow Up Climbs As always, being in excellent physical shape is an important component of our our programs. A good mixture of cardiovascular fitness, muscular fitness, and especially core strength will help you to maximize the potential rewards that are possible on a great climbing trip. 1Before Your Expedition The Ecuador Volcanoes Expedition requires that you have successfully completed a basic or introductory level mountaineering course, either our Intro to Mountaineering and Expedition Climbing Course or similar. Previous technical experience is not required for this expedition, though it can be very useful. Most important is being in excellent physical condition. A combination of cardiovascular and muscular (especially the lower body) training is particularly relevant on an expedition of this nature and will insure you are ready for the rigors of traveling on glaciated terrain at altitude.

For the Ecuador Volcanoes Expedition you should be ready for: Travel in a South American country Climbing at altitudes up to 6000 meters 10 – 12 hour summit days and early alpine starts Fickle weather, cold temperatures, warm temperatures, delays, other factors beyond our control 2Follow Up Climbs I hope that I might be able to get out to Ouray again before ice season ends. If so, I’ll definitely get in touch with you. Working with the local experts really makes a difference. Thanks again for everything! – N. Subashki. 2011 Private Program Quito, Ecuador: Getting There For the purposes of practicality, all of our Ecuador Volcanoes programs begin and end in Quito, Ecuador. Quito is a large metropolitan city of approximately 5 million people. We stay in the Amazonas area – also known popularly as “Gringolandia”. The area has many nice hotels, restaurants, parks, and street vendors. Quito sits at approximately 10,000′ in elevation so be prepared to feel the altitude the moment you step off the plane. View Larger Map Flights: We require our participants to fly into Quito, Ecuador.

The International Airport is a busy hub for airline travel and many options exist. Most flights from the US to Quito originate in either Miami, FL or Houston, TX. Driving: We’ve never had trip participants actually drive to Ecuador from the US. Although it is entirely possible, we can’t recommend this option. Hotels: We provide lodging in Ecuador for the duration of the program. Additional Information Costs associated with early returns, weather delays, or other factors beyond our control Final transfer from Quito hotel to airport Guide gratuity Registration and Cancellation: You will need to fill out our Expedition Application, cancellation policy agreement, and liability waiver, and send it to us with a 50% deposit as early as possible prior to the expedition date. Balance is due on the first day of the course. Please click on our Registration link to access the required forms. He was very thorough and safety conscious. I would highly recommend Nate to anyone and would love to travel again with him on another trip. Happy adventuring! – Tanya H.

Expedition 2010 Global Volcanism Program | Chimborazo 2,325,666 Geological Summary Glacier-clad, 6310-m-high Chimborazo, Ecuador's highest volcano, anchors the southern end of the country's "Avenue of Volcanoes" 30 km NW of the city of Riobamba. The dominantly andesitic-to-dacitic structure is mostly of Pliocene-to-Pleistocene age. The volcano collapsed about 35,000 years ago, producing a major debris avalanche, whose deposits underlie Riobamba and temporarily dammed the Río Chambo, producing an ephemeral lake. Subsequent eruptions have been dominantly andesitic and constructed three edifices along an east-west line, the youngest and westernmost of which forms the current summit of Chimborazo. Although activity was at one time thought to have ceased during the very latest Pleistocene, recent work indicates that it erupted more than a half dozen times during the Holocene, producing pyroclastic surges that reached down to 3800 m elevation.

References The following references have all been used during the compilation of data for this volcano, it is not a comprehensive bibliography. Barba D, 2004. (pers. comm.). Barba D, Robin C, Samaniego P, Eissen J-P, 2008. Holocene recurrent explosive activity at Chimborazo volcano (Ecuador). J Volc Geotherm Res, 176: 27-35. Beate B, Salgado R, 2005. Geothermal country update for Ecuador, 2000-2005. Proc World Geotherm Cong 2005, Antalya, Turkey, 24-29 April 2005, 5 p. Beate B, von Hillebrandt-M C G, Hall M L, 1990. Mapa de los peligros volcanicos potenciales asociados con el volcan Chimborazo. Inst Geof Escuela Politecnica Nac Ecuador, 1:50,000 map and text.

Bernard B, van Wyk de Vries B, Barba D, Leyrit H, Robin C, Alcaraz S, Samaniego P, 2008. The Chimborazo sector collapse and debris avalanche: deposit characteristics as evidence of emplacment mechanisms. J Volc Geotherm Res, 176: 36-43. Clapperton C M, 1990. Glacial and volcanic geomorphology of the Chimborazo-Carihuairazo massif, Ecuadorian Andes. Trans Roy Soc Edinburgh: Earth Sci, 81: 91-116. Eissen J-P, Barba D, Bernard B, 2006. Chimborazo volcano: late Pleistocene and Holocene activity. Cities on Volcanoes 4, Quito, Ecuador, 23-27 Jan, 2006, Field trip A2: 1-23. Hall M L, 1977. El Volcanismo en El Ecuador. Quito: Biblioteca Ecuador, 120 p. Hall M L, Wood C A, 1985.

Volcano-tectonic segmentation of the northern Andes. Geology 13:203-207. IAVCEI, 1973-80. Post-Miocene Volcanoes of the World. IAVCEI Data Sheets, Rome: Internatl Assoc Volc Chemistry Earth's Interior.. Kilian R, Pichler H, 1987. El Chimborazo de Humboldt y el desarrollo de otros volcanes grandes en el Ecuador. In: {Investigaciones Alemanas Recientes en America Latina}, Bonn: Geol Deut Ferschungsgemeinschaft, p 25-34. Samaniego P, Eissen J-P, Le Pennec J-L, Hall M L, Monzier M, Mothes P, Ramon P, Robin C, Egred J, Molina I, Yepes H, 2003. Los peligros volcanicos asociados con el Tungurahua. Inst Geofis Escuela Politecnica Nac, Inst Recherche Devel, 1: 1-108.

Eruptive History Summary of Holocene eruption dates and Volcanic Explosivity Indices (VEI). Start Date The Global Volcanism Program has no synonyms or subfeatures listed for Chimborazo. Photo Gallery Clouds drape glacier-clad, 6310-m-high Chimborazo, Ecuador's highest volcano. Chimborazo anchors the southern end of the country's "Avenue of Volcanoes" 30 km NW of the city of Riobamba. The volcano is mostly of Pliocene-to-Pleistocene age, but recent work has shown that it remained active into the Holocene. The volcano is composed of three edifices along an east-west line, the youngest and westernmost of which forms the current summit of Chimborazo. Photo by Lee Siebert, 1978 (Smithsonian Insitution). Glacier-clad, 6310-m-high Chimborazo is Ecuador's highest volcano. It is seen here from the NE with Carihuairazo volcano forming the lower, mostly snow-free peak to the left. The youngest and westernmost of three edifices constructed along an E-W line forms the current summit of Chimborazo.

Although activity was once thought to have ceased during the very latest Pleistocene, recent work indicates that Chimborazo erupted several times during the Holocene. Photo by Patricio Ramon, 2004 (Instituto Geofisca, Escuela Politecnica Nacional). An erosional unconformity cutting diagonally across the center of the photo due to a glacial advance about 20,000-18,000 years ago separates two sequences of late-Pleistocene tephra layers from Ecuador's Chimborazo volcano. A less prominent unconformity below the light-colored tephra layer at the top of the sequence marks a 16,000-14,000 year old glacial advance. This ~12-m-thick exposure lies on the SW flank of Chimborazo, Ecuador's highest volcano. Photo by Lee Siebert, 2006 (Smithsonian Institution). Smithsonian Sample Collections Database There are no samples for Chimborazo in the Smithsonian's NMNH Department of Mineral Sciences Rock and Ore collection .

Affiliated Sites Ecuador Mountain Climbing Tour, Climbing Tours & South America Adventure Tours Day 1 Arrival in Quito Upon your arrival in Quito, Ecuador’s capital city, which lies at an elevation of 2,800 meters above sea level, you will be met at the airport and driven to your hotel, located in the modern part of the city. Day 2 Quito City Tour – “Middle of the World” Monument – Pululahua Crater After breakfast, you will be taken to explore the bustling streets and squares of the largest historic district in the Americas. This will include visits to some of Quito’s most important religious buildings, such as the impressive Cathedral, the majestic La Compañía Church, and the iconic San Francisco Church, guardians of a stunning multiethnic artistic and cultural heritage. A large part of their interiors, especially the altars and pulpits, are gilded in gold and house innumerable works of religious art. Your historic district visit concludes on top of Panecillo Hill, with its breathtaking views of the old and modern city, surrounded by the rolling Andean Mountains.

You will then be driven to the “Middle of the World” (Mitad del Mundo) monument, located at latitude 0º 0º 0º. This site provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to straddle both the northern and southern hemispheres. Here, you can also visit the small Ethnographic Museum, which provides a fine overview of Ecuador’s varied peoples and geography. Later you will be taken to the nearby Geo-botanical Reserve of the Pululahua Volcano (reaching an altitude of 8,202 feet (2,500 m). In this area, you will spend around two hours wandering along the floor of this extinct crater, with plenty of time to admire the beauty of the area’s exotic plant life. In the late afternoon, we will head back to your Quito, where at your hotel you will be given a welcome cocktail and a full briefing of the tour ahead. Breakfast - Lunch Day 3 Pasochoa Nature Reserve Today, after breakfast, we will leave Quito and travel 30 miles (50 km) south to Pasochoa Nature Reserve.

To reach Hacienda San Francisco, where we will begin trekking at an altitude of 3,600 meters across the paramo (grassland highlands). It will take us about two hours to reach the first summit of the Pasochoa Volcano, at 4,200 meters above sea level. Along the trails, you are likely to see various species of orchids and bromeliads, as well as rare types of cedar. In addition to this lush paramo vegetation, more than 120 types of birds live in this area, giving you an opportunity to observe hummingbirds and possibly even sight condors soaring above. After another 30 minutes of trekking, we will make our way to the second summit, at 4,150 meters. The decent will then take about one hour, allowing us to return to Quito in the late afternoon. You will spend the night at your hotel. Breakfast - Lunch Day 4 Guagua Pichincha Volcano Climbing The Pichincha Volcano is a great option for those who want to do a fairly demanding high-altitude hike.

The Andean village of Lloa (situated at 11,483 feet, or 3,500 m) is in the basin southwest of Quito and will be the starting point for your trip into the Andean mountains. From here, a path will lead you over the foothills of the slopes of Guagua Pichincha peak and up to the refuge below the crater’s edge, which is reached after a five-hour hike. Only a few meters will separate you from the 15,728-foot (4,794 m) summit of this active volcano. (The last time the volcano erupted, in 2001, it blanketed Quito in several centimeters of black ash!). From here you will have an amazing view into the horseshoe-shaped crater, which is open on the western side. The smoke, along with the cones of scree and ash that emerges from the inside of the crater, testify to the volcanic activity found here. You will need about three hours for your descent. In the late afternoon, we will drive you to your hotel, in the El Chaupi area.

Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner Day 5 North Illiniza Mountain Climbing The peaks of the two Illinizas mountains, North and South, are a mixture of rocks and ice. These summits are the remnants of a single volcano, though they are now separated from each other by a distance of one kilometer. From these peaks you will have a beautiful view of the nearby Cotopaxi Volcano. In the morning you will be driven from the El Chaupi area, following a country road to the El Refugio hacienda, and then driving up the slopes of the North Illinizas (a distance of around 3 miles [5 km]) to a narrow grass plain called La Virgen (“The Virgin”). Here, our 2-3 hour hike starts as we ascend to the Nuevos Horizontes refuge (cabins), at an elevation of 15,338 feet (4,675 m). If you are very physically fit and are already acclimatized to the altitude, you can start your ascent to the northern peak today, which should be reached in around three hours. Hiking back down to our transport vehicle will also take about three hours.

From there, we will return to the mountain refuge to relax and enjoy a hearty dinner. Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner Day 6 Quilotoa Crater Lake During a six-hour round-trip by car, you will discover the western Andes region, which is one of the most impressive parts of Ecuador. First, we will travel south to the town of Latacunga, and then we will proceed west through the western Cordillera, making a short stop in the village of Pujilí to purchase fruit at the local market. The tour then takes you to Zumbuahua, a small, colorful village of about 40 households. Around 10 kilometers north of this village lies the blue and green glimmering Quilotoa Crater Lake. This “lagoon” is one of the most beautiful volcano lakes in the entire Ecuadorian Andes. From the crater you can see various snow-capped volcanoes. After a hike through this impressive landscape, you will be driven to Baños for the night. Breakfast - Lunch Day 7 Baños Visit Today’s objective is recovery and relaxation!

Baños (at 1,800 meters), with its wonderful setting and pleasant sub-tropical climate, is famous for its thermal spring water baths. There are also a multitude of outdoor activities available in this town, ranging from mountain biking and rafting, to visiting waterfalls or observing the active Tungurahua Volcano from a variety of observation decks. Breakfast - Lunch Day 8 Chimborazo Volcano – Whymper Refuge Following breakfast, you will be driven via Ambato to the highest mountain in Ecuador: Chimborazo (20,702 feet, or 6,310 m). You will pass Carihuayrazo Volcano on your way to the beautiful highlands at the base of Chimborazo, traveling past Andean landscapes along roads that cut through wild ravines. During your journey, you should see plenty of llamas, as well vicuñas and alpacas. You will be driven up to the Hermanos Carrel Hut, the lower of two refuges. Here, you will disembark from the vehicle and ascend by foot to the Whymper Refuge, situated at around 16,404 feet (5,000 m).

If the weather is good, you will have the opportunity to go on a short acclimatization walk. After an early dinner, it will then be time to bed. Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner Day 9 Chimborazo Volcano – Riobamba – Return to Quito Your climb to the summit of the Chimborazo Volcano begins at midnight and should take about eight to nine hours, assuming good weather conditions. From the peak (at an elevation 20,702 feet, or 6,310 m), you will have an utterly fantastic view of distant green Amazonian jungle as well as spectacular views over snow-capped Andean peaks to the blue of the Pacific Ocean – an incomparable sight. The descent back to the refuge will take between four to five hours. From there, you will be driven back to Quito.

Breakfast - Lunch South America Highpoints : Climbing, Hiking & Mountaineering : SummitPost South America Highpoints Object Title: South America Highpoints Created/Edited: Feb 3, 2012 / Apr 5, 2013 Object ID: 774753 Page Score: 86.85% - 23 Votes Loading... Tweet Well...here we have some great mountains of South America. This continent has a lot to show you and believe me, you can be amazed by its fantastic landescapes and high mountains. Some mountains are not listed here because there is no page on SummitPost for them yet, but as soon as someone does it, I'll update the page so we can enjoy a complete page with a complete list. Summits Table ARGENTINA 01 - Cerro Aconcágua - 6.962 m. (22.841 ft) Aconcagua is the highest mountain in the Western hemisphere, located in western Argentina, near the Chile border. There are about 3,500 climbers trying the summit each year (info from 2002).

The 'Normal Route' is non-technical - a walk-up, following the Northwest Ridge. It is the altitude that poses the most problem. That and the sense that this is an easy climb. Every year people die because they underestimate the task at hand...Keep reading about it on the mountain page on SP . One of the most popular climbs in the owrld. WORK IN PROGRESS CHILE 02 - Ojos Del Salado volcano - 6.893 m. (22.615 ft) The highest volcano on earth is also the highest point in Chile and second in South America. As the volcanic activity is quite recent, it´s classified as a neovolcano and there are still minor activity on the peak. Larger amounts of sulfuric gases and vapor were seen as late as 1994, but normally a faint smell och sulfur is the only sign of volcanic activity on the peak. Ojos del Salado is a border mountain and can be climbed from both Argetina and Chile. If you don´t like red tape, a hefty peak fee and bureaucracy, Argentina is the place to go for.

If you rather pay a bit, prefer to travel high on the mountain in a jeep...Keep reading about it on the mountain page on SP . Not very popular yet, and that is a good thing. PERU 03 - Huascaran Sur - 6.746 m. (22.132 ft) Together with Chopicalqui, the twin summits of Huascarán form the Huascarán massif. Huascarán Sur is the highest mountain in the Cordillera Blanca as well as in the whole of Peru, and consequently quite popular. The south summit is 91 meters higher than its (much less frequented) northern twin. The saddle between them, Garganta, lies at 6010m...Keep reading about it on the mountain page on SP . Dangerous mountain, often climbed. BOLIVIA 04 - Sajama volcano - 6.542 m. (21.463 ft) Sajama is Bolivia's highest mountain (by about 100m) - an extinct volcano situated in the eponymous Sajama National Park, on Bolivia's South-Western border with Chile.

The volcano has been (fortunately!) extinct for the past 10,000 years. The summit is covered by a permanent ice cap hiding all trace of any volcanic crater...Keep reading about it on the mountain page on SP . Very, very cold mountain. Reports of 40°C below zero at worst case scenario. ECUADOR 05 - Chimborazo volcano - 6.310 m. (20.702 ft) Longtime considered as the highest mountain on the planet, Chimborazo was dethroned by the Himalayan and Peruvian peaks. Nevertheless, considering the geometry of the Earth, this summit is known as the farthest point from its center (see section below for full explanation). This huge mountain is the highest point in Ecuador. It has five summits, the highest culminating at 6,310 meters (20,702 ft.). There are many routes up its slopes. The normal route runs up the Southwest flank and is a variation of the original Whymper route...Keep reading about it on the mountain page on SP . Also often climbed, very popular mountain in South America and "most wanted" in Ecuador along with Cotopaxi volcano.

COLOMBIA The highest Peak in Colombia is in debate. Cristobal Colon Peak, forbidden to climb as a sacred mountain. Or maybe Simón Bolivar Peak, also forbidden to climb for the very same reason. 06 - Cristobal Colon has 5.775 meters high (18.497 ft), and it doesn't have a mountain page here on SP. 06 - Simón Bolivar has 5.775 meters high (18.497 ft), and it doesn't have a mountain page here on SP. Both altitudes are questionable since no one (not even locals) have climbed these mountains for over 20 years. To read more, an article I wrote here on summitpost: VENEZUELA The highest point of Venezuela is Bolivar Peak. In fact, there was a mountain page online here at SP but I can't find it, maybe the owner deleted it. 07 - It has 4.981 meters high (16.342 ft), and it doesn't have a mountain page here on SP.

Altough, there is still a route page for the north face of Bolivar Peak available here on SP, check it on: BRAZIL 08 - Neblina Peak - 2.994 m. (9.823 ft) Pico da Neblina (Fog Peak) is the highest mountain in Brazil, 2.994 meters above sea level, in the Imeri mountain range (Serra do Imeri), a section of the Guiana Highlands on the Brazil-Venezuela border. As determined by a border survey expedition in 1962, its summit lies barely within Brazilian territory, at a horizontal distance of a mere 687 m from the Venezuelan border at Pico 31 de Março. The latter peak is only 21 metres lower and Brazil's second highest mountain. The word neblina means "fog" in Portuguese; so, the peak's name (meaning "Peak of the Mists") reflects that it is shrouded in dense clouds most of the time. It was first ascended in 1965 by members of a Brazilian Army expedition...Keep reading about it on the mountain page on SP .

Its Park is currently closed for visitors. Every now and then people get stuck at indians's hands, dangerous to try it without a guide. GUYANA 09 - Mount Roraima - 2.810 m. (9.219 ft) Roraima is an interesting mountain located in the Guiana Highlands. The peak actually shares the border with Venezuela, Brazil, and Guyana, but the mountain is almost always approached from the Venezuela side. The Brazil and Guyana sides are much more difficult. The Guiana Highlands is a very unusual mountain range covering parts of Venezuela, Brazil, Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana. The highlands are made of ancient sedimentary rock that is over two billion years old and are some of the oldest sedimentary rocks on the planet...Keep reading about it on the mountain page on SP . Often hiked by hundreds and maybe thousands of people every year, but you can't do it alone, travel agency service is demanded. SURINAME The highest point of Suriname is Juliana Hill (aka Juliana top).

10 - It has 1.280 meters high (4.199 ft), and it doesn't have a mountain page here on SP. Rob (SPer RGG) did a small research on this particular mountain, and here's some thoughts of his: The research taught me that Julianatop is located in the Wilhelmina mountains. The source of these two names is obvious: Wilhelmina was queen of The Netherlands from 1990 until 1948, when she was succeeded by her daughter Juliana who reigned until 1980. Perhaps the mountain had received a name by the indigenous population before the Dutch colonized it, but if it did, I didn'tfind it. The Wilhelmina mountains lie deep in the jungle in the middle of the country and the summits are still covered by dense jungle. Google terrain view places the summit of Julianatop at 3.683°N / 56.535°W. The jungle makes it very hard to get there and consequently the mountain sees very few attempts. Several sources claim that the summit is 1230m high, not 1280m.

A very short article in Wikipedia.nl states 1280m (retrieved on 6 February 2012), but as source it refers to the "Wereld Bosatlas", a popular Dutch atlas, but notoriously unreliable for elevations. For example, my copy of the Bosatlas (from 1997) states that La Neblina is 3100m, and Illimani 6882m! So, forget Wikipedia. Google Maps shows a contour of 1220m around the summit, but that's not decisive. Small and pointy summits are not captured very well by the SRTM data on which Google Maps is primarily based, and I don't know how steep it really is, so it could still be 1280m high. A bit more research, or perhaps an email to the appropriate Surinam institute, might resolve this. Some useful references I found were Julianatop on Peakbagger, a very short trip report (in Dutch), and a longer and well written article (also in Dutch) claiming the first ascent as late as 2011! Their GPS measured 1257m on the summit.

I have some doubts as to whether it this was indeed the first ascent, meaning that all others before climbed the wrong peak, but I can imagine how this could happen. The range being covered by jungle makes it difficult to see anything from the summits. These days, we are blessed with GPS, altimeters and Google maps to help us out, but before that, I imagine it would be hard to know an exact location in the jungle, and from any of the other summits it would have been very difficult to know if it was the highest or not. FRENCH GUYANA The highest point of French Guyana is Bellevue de l'Inini. 11 - It has 851 meters high (2.792 ft), and it doesn't have a mountain page here on SP. PS: French Guyana is not listed as a country in SP. PARAGUAY The highest point of Paraguay Cerro Tres Kandu. 12 - It has 842 meters high (2.762 ft), and it doesn't have a mountain page here on SP. URUGUAI 13 - Cerro Catedral - 514 m.

(1.686 ft) Cerro Catedral is the country highpoint of Uruguay. The nation officially named the República Oriental del Uruguay is not known for its mountains. In fact, Cerro Catedral is the lowest country highpoint in South America. Uruguay is perhaps best known for itsgaucho culture, the asado, and yerba mate. The gaucho is essentially the South American version of a cowboy. An asado is simply a barbeque, generally involving good quality local meat and wine. Keep reading about it on the mountain page on SP . External Links A brazilian website to get mountains info, including gps files to download: My youtube channel: - Now with 250+ videos online! The biggest brazilian website about climbing and mountaineering, for which I'm a columnist: Additions and Corrections Volcanoes of South America Volcanic Ash Advisory Center Buenos Aires (VAAC) issued the following report: ... [more] Volcanoes of South America Sakurajima volcano photos : One of the world's most active volcanoes, Sakurajima on Japan's Kyushu Island is famous for its frequent vulcanian explosions, often accompanied by eruption lightning.

Subpages: Colombia | Ecuador | Peru | Bolivia | Argentina / Chile (north) / Bolivia | Argentina / Chile (center) | Argentina / Chile (south) | Chile | Argentina Copyrights: VolcanoDiscovery and other sources as noted. Use of material: Text and images on this webpage are copyrighted. Further reproduction and use without authorization is not consented. If you need licensing rights for photographs, for example for publications and commercial use, please contact us. Climb Chimborazo & the Ecuador volcanoes — International Alpine Guides Ecuador Volcanoes Climb Overview Chimborazo and Cayambe are challenging and beautiful mountains, but technically not too difficult. The Ecuador volcanoes expedition is done "alpine-style" with all the climbs done out of comfortable mountain huts instead of tents. A great mountaineering trip for those with high altitude climbing goals and who want to put their abilities to the test in a beautiful location. A great introduction into high-altitude international climbing, the Ecuador volcanoes climbs offers some of the best volcano climbing in the world inlcuding Chimborazo, the highest volcano in the world.

On the Chimborazo and Cayambe climbs you also have the opportunity to experience the rich Ecuadorian culture while gaining high altitude mountaineering climbing experience. Join us on one of our favorite South American climbing expeditions. Climbing the Ecuador volcanoes with a highly experienced American mountain guide is a perfect high altitude climbing trip for those who just want an introduction of high altitude climbing or for those with even larger mountains in mind. Large glaciers and big views await. We begin in the capitol city of Quito and then travel North to the town of Otavalo and overnight at a beautiful Ecuadorian country resort. After an acclimating hike on Fuya Fuya, it's on to the hut at Cayambe where we conitnue our acclimating and review some glacier travel skills. Then we attempt our summit of Cayambe and head back to another country resort for some rest. Then it's on to the big one - Chimborazo. The climb of Chimborazo is a long one, strenuous but not too technically challenging. While standing on the summit of Chimborazo you are rewarding with knowing you are standing on the furthest point from the center of the world!

Success on the Chimborazo & Cayambe climbs requires basic ice axe and crampon skills and a very good fitness level. Early in the trip, your American mountain guides will review with you the glacier skills necessary to the magnificent Ecuador volcanoes. We build flexibility into our itinerary in case of inclement weather or other unforeseen delays. We go with small group sizes, no more than six total, for more personal attention and flexibility. We are not climbing Cotopaxi until further notice due to the 2015 eruption. Ecuadorian Alpine Institute – Tours Operator. Climbing, Cruises, Travel and Activities – Climbing school. Expedition climbing guide in Ecuador and South America – Climbing, Cruises, Amazon Jungle, Travel and Activities Ecuador and Galapagos land tour Ecuador Land Tour Galapagos Island hopping – Otavalo – Saquisili Market, Quilotoa, Baños city – Riobamaba, Cuenca, Guayaquil – 17 days!

Ecuador Land Tour Ecuador Land Tour Galapagos Island hopping – Otavalo – Saquisili Market, Quilotoa, Baños city – Riobamaba, Cuenca, Guayaquil – 17 days!. Ecuador Tour & Climbing Climbing expedition in Cayambe, Antisana, Chimborazo, Guagua Pichincha or Ruco Pichincha volcano, Quito, Otavalo, Ambato, Cuycocha and Riobamba. Ecuador Piñan Trek Ecuador Pinan trek – Otavalo market- Ibarra -San Francisco, Yanacocha – Parkacocha and Burrococha, Yanahurco – Laguna Albují, San Blas – Ibarra or Otavalo hotel. Aegentina & Ecuador Aconcagua – Climbing Acocncagua, Plaza de Mulas, Nido de Condores. Ecuador – Ruco Pichincha, Pasochoa and Iliniza North – 5 summits along the avenue of volcanoes!

ECUADOR EXPLORER Cotopaxi is an active stratovolcano located in the canton Latacunga, Cotopaxi Province, Ecuador. With an elevation of 5897 meters above sea level is the second highest volcano in the country.

Question: The volcanic mountain Chimborazo is in which South American country?
Answer: Ecuador