Destination: Ecuador

LONELY PLANET'S OFFICIAL ITINERARY INFORMATION

Itinerary: Peak Experience

THE 10 HIGHEST MOUNTAINS

Ten peaks in Ecuador top 5000m, and whether you climb them, trek around them, or marvel at them from the window of a bus, they’re some of Ecuador’s most glorious sights. Of course, the views from the top of each are outrageous.



Volcán Chimborazo is Ecuador’s highest mountain and, thanks to the equatorial bulge, the closest point to the sun. Beginners with a guide can climb Volcán Cotopaxi, the country’s second-highest peak and one of the world’s highest active volcanoes. It’s tough to find a finer sight than that of Volcán Cayambe towering majestically in the distance behind Otavalo’s Saturday morning animal market. The view of Antisana from the thermal baths at Papallacta, however, is definitely more luxurious. Only the headstrong attempt to climb Volcán Sangay, the world’s most constantly active volcano.

Volcán El Altar is also rarely climbed but, for many mountaineers, its nine challenging peaks ringing a gorgeous crater lake make it the most beautiful of the big 10. Iliniza Norte and Iliniza Sur are majestic backdrops for hiking and climbing near the capital. Standing adjacent to Chimborazo, Volcán Carihuairazo is the country’s ninth-highest peak and technically more challenging than its domineering neighbor. Near Baños, the sight of Volcán Tungurahua spewing smoke and steam is unforgettable.