Antisana volcano, Stratovolcano in Cordillera Real, Ecuador.
Antisana is a stratovolcano in the Cordillera Real of eastern Ecuador, rising to 5,758 meters (18,891 feet) with a base 13 kilometers (8 miles) wide. Glaciers cover the upper slopes and feed streams that flow into the surrounding valleys.
The current cone formed after the collapse of an older volcano that was active for over 14,000 years. The last major eruption occurred in the 19th century, when ash fell across the region.
The name comes from the Cañari language and means dark mountain, referring to the rock and glacier shadows. Condors often circle above the summit and are considered sacred animals in Andean culture.
Access is usually from the west side via highland tracks that can become impassable during rain. Those heading for the summit need glacier equipment and should travel with an experienced mountain guide.
Meltwater from the glaciers supplies Quito with much of its drinking water, flowing through reservoirs and pipelines into the capital. The protected area around the mountain also safeguards the páramo vegetation, which stores water like a natural sponge.
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