description Cayambe Massif Overview
Cayambe in Ecuador at 5,790 m is the highest point on Earth located directly on the equator and an active stratovolcano with a permanent summit glacier.
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Cayambe Massif ranks #100 of 336 in the Massif ranking, behind Kangchenjunga Massif, ahead of Vercors Massif.
Equator high point, glacier and volcanic profile, distinctive geographic appeal, slightly less famous than Cotopaxi.
help Cayambe Massif FAQ
Where is the Cayambe Massif located?
Cayambe is a massive volcanic complex located in the Cordillera Central of the Andes mountains in northern Ecuador. It sits about 70 kilometers northeast of the capital city of Quito.
What makes Cayambe unique regarding its latitude and elevation?
At 5,790 meters (18,996 feet), Cayambe's summit is the highest point on Earth located directly on the equator. It is also the only point on the equator with permanent snow cover and a glacier.
Is Cayambe an active volcano?
Yes, Cayambe is an active stratovolcano, though it has not had a major eruption in recent centuries. The last significant eruptive activity occurred in the late 18th century, though fumarolic activity is still occasionally observed.
Can mountaineers climb the Cayambe volcano?
Yes, it is a popular mountaineering objective, but climbers must navigate deep crevasses and challenging weather conditions. Ascent guides from Quito routinely take experienced climbers up its heavily glaciated slopes, which require technical rope skills.
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