Chimborazo, an inactive volcano since the last 2 million years, is the highest peak at 6310 meters, in Ecuador. Chimborazo is located in the depression between the Eastern and Western Cordillera of the South American Andes Mountains. Chimborazo's geographical locations is 1.46º S, and 78.82ºW. The Chimborazo peak is the highest point on the earth's surface from the center of the earth because of the following reasons:
- located almost on the Equator
- Earth's oblate shape
- high elevation
The Chimborazo is an inactive volcano which has not erupted in historical times. It is snow-capped, and glacier run down to a height of 4600m. Among the Ecuador Mountains, Chimborazo has many names:
- Woman in Ice
- Ice Home of the Gods
- Sacred Winds of the Moon
- Nation's Roof
The Chimborazo Peak was first climbed in 1880 by Edward Whymper and the Carrel Brothers.
The nearest cities to Chimborazo, which are important destinations for Ecuador Sightseeing are :
- Riobamba (30 km to the South – East)
- Ambato (30 km to North – East)
- Guardanda (25 km to South – West)
Climate
The average temperature at Chimborazo is 13º C. The dry period starts from late June and extends till early September. There is also a short dry spell in December and early January. The wet season is from February to May, with April being the wettest. In August winds can be a cause of worry.
Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve
Another attraction of Chimborazo is its Wildlife Reserve. Spread over 58,560 hectares the reserve extends to the provinces of Bolivia and Tungurahua. This reserve aims to protect the llama, alpaca, and vicuna.
