Crafted by the forces of nature in the shape of a sacred Shrine “El Altar” is one of the most breathtaking volcanoes of Andes’ plains. Its various peaks resemble a crown in whose interior, like a jewel, lays a beautiful lake. This nature’s masterpiece is located 30km (19 miles) away from the city of Riobamba, inside the Sangay National Park. It has an altitude of 5400m (17716 feet) above the sea level, making it the fifth highest volcano in all Ecuador. So either walking to the crater to see the beautiful inner lake, or adventuring into one of its majestic peaks, the experience can only be described as vibrating and unforgettable.
The name “El Altar” was given by the Spanish Conquerors, who upon seeing it from afar associated its shape to an altar. Nevertheless the volcano’s original name was “Capac Urcu”, words from the Quechua language meaning “The Majestic Hill”.
To visit this volcano, you can take the route that starts in the village of Penipe, located at its hillsides. The route will take you through high plateaus and unique landscapes. After passing the Candelaria and Releche villages you will reach the Collanes refugee, found 3500m (11482 feet) above the sea level. This refugee is an excellent resting spot before continuing with a 2 hour walk to the interior of the crater, at a height of 4200m (13779 feet). Once inside the crater, you will find yourself face to face with the impressive Amarilla Lake, with its high peaks covered with snow forming a semicircle around it.
For climbers, the Altar is a pleasure and a privilege. Before getting the adventure started, you have to decide which of the 9 peaks you want to climb. The options are: the Obispo (5400m / 17716ft), the Fraile Central (5060m / 16601ft), the Fraile Oriental (5050m / 16568ft), the Fraile Grande (5160m / 16929ft), the Tabernáculo (5290m / 17355ft), the Canónigo (5350m / 17552ft), the Fraile Beato (5040m / 16535ft), the Monja Grande (5100m / 16732ft) and the Monja Chica (5070m / 16633ft). The peaks provide different difficulty levels and climbing times, but they all reward climbers with the amazing view of the freezing Andean landscapes or with various lakes originated by the volcano itself. On clear days, one can also admire the vast Ecuadorian Amazon which contrasts beautifully with the rest of the landscape.
Standing in the open crater fills you with greatness. Being at its peaks you feel part of it and become as powerful as the volcano itself. Undoubtedly this is a perfect mix between adventure and natural beauty that can only be offered by majestic places like the Altar.
Photo: Alfredobi
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