Sincholagua Volcano

Sincholagua is an extinct stratovolcano near Cotopaxi National Park with a height of 4,893 meters and a sharp summit. The peak maintains snow cover year-round and stands as a popular climbing destination in Ecuador's Andean range.

Edward Whymper and his companions Jean-Antoine Carrel and Louis Carrel made the first recorded ascent on February 23, 1880. This early climb marked an important milestone in exploring Ecuador's Andean volcanoes.

The name Sincholagua comes from the Quichua language of indigenous peoples and means 'strong above', reflecting the mountain's commanding height. Visitors can sense this cultural connection through the local name, which ties the peak to the history of Andean communities.

The northwest ridge is the main climbing route and can be completed in about three and a half hours from base camp under normal conditions. Given the altitude and snow-covered surface, visitors should be prepared with alpine gear and mountaineering experience.

A Gulfstream II aircraft collided with the mountain in 1995 after selecting incorrect navigation frequencies, striking at approximately 16,000 feet. This incident reveals the hazards that the summit's altitude and location posed to aviation.