CHIMBORAZO VOLCANO, THE HIGHEST POINT ON EARTH

If there’s one thing most people know about mountains, it’s that Mount Everest, located in the Himalayas, is the highest mountain above sea level on Earth.

But what if Everest wasn’t actually the point on Earth that is farthest from the planet’s center? Surprisingly, that distinction belongs to an Ecuadorian giant: Chimborazo Volcano.

Due to the Earth’s equatorial bulge, the summit of Chimborazo is the point on the planet farthest from the Earth's center. Although Everest reaches 8,848.86 meters (29,031.7 ft) above sea level, Chimborazo’s summit, at 6,263 meters (20,548 ft), extends farther into space because Ecuador lies near the equator, where the Earth's radius is greatest.

Why Is Chimborazo Farther from the Earth's Center?

The Earth is not a perfect sphere. It is slightly flattened at the poles and wider around the equator. The difference between the Earth's polar and equatorial radii is approximately 21 kilometers (13 miles).

This means that any location near the equator starts farther from the Earth's center than locations closer to the poles. As a result, Chimborazo's summit is approximately 2 kilometers farther from the Earth's center than Mount Everest's summit.

Located in Ecuador’s Western Andes, Chimborazo rises to an elevation of 6,263 meters (20,548 ft), making it the highest mountain in Ecuador and one of the country's most iconic natural landmarks. On clear days, it can even be seen from Guayaquil, over 140 kilometers away.

The Andean Legend of Chimborazo

According to an ancient Andean legend, a fierce rivalry once existed between the mighty volcanoes Chimborazo and Cotopaxi. Both sought to win the heart of the beautiful and temperamental mountain maiden, Tungurahua.

The two volcanic titans battled with fire, ash, smoke, and molten rock, each attempting to impress their beloved. Their eruptions were said to have reshaped the surrounding landscapes, creating rivers, valleys, and fertile lands.

In the end, Tungurahua chose Chimborazo. Together they formed a family, and according to the legend, their son became the mountain known as Pichincha. Heartbroken, Cotopaxi fell into a deep sleep, waiting for the day his love might return.

Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve

The Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve spans approximately 58,560 hectares across the provinces of Chimborazo, Bolívar, and Tungurahua. It encompasses the páramo ecosystems surrounding Chimborazo and neighboring mountains.

The reserve was created to protect fragile Andean ecosystems and support the reintroduction of South American camelids. These animals help preserve native vegetation and water resources due to their low environmental impact.

Wildlife You Can Find

• Vicuñas
• Llamas
• Alpacas
• Andean foxes
• White-tailed deer
• Andean weasels
• Skunks

Birdwatchers can observe more than 30 species of Andean birds, including the majestic Andean condor, curiquingues, swifts, and the elusive Ecuadorian Hillstar hummingbird.

Top Activities in Chimborazo

• Trekking through high-altitude páramo landscapes.
• Visiting the reserve lagoon.
• Exploring the Polylepis forest.
• Mountain biking on challenging routes.
• Visiting the Whymper Needles.
• Climbing to the summit of Chimborazo.

Climbing Chimborazo

For mountaineers, Chimborazo offers one of the most rewarding climbing experiences in South America. Although many climbers acclimatize in Quito, the city of Riobamba serves as the primary gateway for expeditions.

Because of the mountain’s altitude and changing weather conditions, hiring a certified mountain guide and using proper technical equipment is strongly recommended.

Snow is often visible from the first refuge, and during colder periods it may even reach the access roads. The breathtaking scenery and the challenge of reaching the summit make Chimborazo a dream destination for adventure travelers.

Experience the Avenue of Volcanoes

If you love adventure, explore Ecuador’s famous Avenue of Volcanoes and discover Chimborazo alongside other spectacular peaks. Enjoy breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural traditions, and unforgettable outdoor experiences.

From Chimborazo's slopes, visitors can also witness the historic train route that winds through dramatic Andean scenery toward the legendary Devil’s Nose.

For local communities, the waters flowing from Chimborazo are sacred, symbolizing life, abundance, and spiritual connection. Visiting this majestic volcano is much more than an excursion—it is an experience that stays with you forever.

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