Cayambe

Cayambe is a stratovolcano rising to 5,790 meters about 70 kilometers northeast of Quito, carrying a permanent snow cap and extensive ice fields. The southern flank shows steep slopes with crevasses, while the northern side offers gentler approaches.

British mountaineer Edward Whymper reached the summit in 1880 with Italian guides Jean-Antoine and Louis Carrel for the first recorded ascent. Geologists later documented volcanic activity dating back thousands of years.

The name comes from the Quechua word Cahan, meaning high cold place. Local communities have regarded the mountain as part of their landscape and stories for generations.

The Ruales Oleas Berge refuge at 4,700 meters offers overnight shelter for climbers preparing to tackle the ascent through moderate to steep sections. Acclimatization is needed, as altitude affects quickly at these elevations.

The southern slope marks the highest point on Earth crossed by the Equator, making it the only snow-covered spot along this global parallel. On clear days visitors here see two hemispheres at once.

Location: Cayambe Canton

Location: Pichincha Province

Elevation above the sea: 5,790 m

GPS coordinates: 0.02516,-77.98896

Latest update: December 6, 2025 11:00