Volcán Altar | El Altar
Altar Volcano, also known as Capac Urcu or “The Lord’s Mountain,” is a dormant stratovolcano situated in the Andes mountain range of Ecuador. This volcano, which is the fifth highest in Ecuador, has a fascinating geological history and offers unmatched views that draw numerous trekkers and climbers annually from all over the world.
Altar Volcano is located within the Sangay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site recognized for its high biodiversity and significant ecological value. The volcano is characterized by a collapsed caldera, which resulted from a catastrophic eruption around 800 years ago. This eruption was one of the largest of the last 2000 years and caused substantial environmental impact in the region. The caldera is now filled with a series of crater lakes, the largest of which is known as Laguna Amarilla due to its distinctive yellow color caused by dissolved minerals.
Interestingly, Altar Volcano presents a complex and rugged topography with several peaks around the caldera rim, the highest of which is Bishop’s Cap at 5,319 meters (17,451 ft) above sea level. This unique configuration makes Altar one of the most challenging climbs in the Ecuadorian Andes.
Though Altar Volcano had been dormant for centuries, it showed signs of renewed activity in 1999 with an increase in fumarolic activity and gas emissions. However, this did not result in an eruption and the volcano has since returned to its dormant state. Nonetheless, the geothermal activity at Altar continues to be monitored closely by scientists for any signs of potential future eruptions.
Altar Volcano’s rich biodiversity and unique geographical features make it a popular destination for researchers and tourists alike. The surrounding region houses a variety of flora and fauna endemic to the Andes, providing ample opportunities for nature photography and wildlife observation. Treks to Altar typically involve challenging hikes through high-altitude vegetation zones and across glacial terrain, offering a rewarding experience for adventure enthusiasts.
Altar Volcano is not just a geographical landmark but also an important part of Ecuador’s cultural heritage and natural landscape. Its dramatic topography, historical significance, and ecological wealth make it an iconic feature of the Andes and a must-visit destination in Ecuador.
Fast Facts
Country: Ecuador
State/Province: Chimborazo, Morona Santiago
Mountain Range: Cordillera Oriental, Andes
Parents: Cordillera Oriental, Andes
Elevation: 17,451 feet / 5,319 meters
Prominence: 6,798 feet / 2,072 meters
Isolation: 22.72 miles / 36.57 kilometers
Nearest Higher Neighbor (NHN): Volcán Sangay
