The only glaciated peak on Earth crossed by the Equator line, at 5,790 m.
Cayambe, at 5,790 m (18,996 ft), is Ecuador's third-highest summit and the only glaciated peak on the planet crossed by the Equator line: eternal snow sitting right on latitude zero. This is a fully guided glacier summit attempt, operated end to end by PEAKS with certified mountain guides and high-end equipment.
Climbing Cayambe is more than an athletic challenge, it is a transformative experience. The route delivers a technical, exhilarating ascent rewarded with towering glaciers and deep-blue crevasses that feel like another world. It is the perfect stage for climbers seeking the glory of the high mountains without the crowds of the more famous peaks, in an atmosphere of calm and exclusivity.
We sleep at the Ruales-Oleas-Berge hut at 4,700 m and set out for the top in the middle of the night to stand on the summit at sunrise. We climb as a rope team (2 climbers per guide), with a full technical briefing on crampons, ice axe and rope work. It is a demanding summit, ideal for mountaineers with crampon experience and solid acclimatization, and a key stage in a multi-summit program alongside Cotopaxi and Chimborazo.
Experience with crampons and ice axe, comfort on crevassed glacier terrain, and solid prior acclimatization. Attending the technical briefing and the training sessions is mandatory. We recommend bringing altitude-sickness medication, gloves, a buff and a cap.
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