Chimborazo

With a height of 20702 feet, Chimborazo is Ecuador's highest peak and the tallest peak close to the equator. The stratovolcano is located in the Cordillera Occidental of the Andes. Since around 550 C.E., the mountain has been inactive.

Chimborazo's top is covered by glaciers, which flow to lower elevations and provide water to the provinces. These glaciers have been shrinking as a result of climate change and human excavation for cooling purposes. Mountaineering activities draw people to the peak, particularly between December and January and July and August.

The most difficult challenge at these altitudes is allowing enough time to acclimate. Begin an hour by road from Riobamba at the Whimper Refuge at 16,400 feet, named after British Edward Whimper, who first summited in 1880. It is a strenuous 6- to 9-hour ascent that normally takes place along the southern route.

It is best done between December and January or June and July and should be avoided between February and May. Even if you don't intend to try the summit, a day trip to the national park to explore its otherworldly scenery is worthwhile.

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Elevation: 20702 ft

Location: Chimborazo, Ecuador