Chimborazo Day is annually observed on June 3. Chimborazo mountain is the highest point on Earth, despite the fact that it is not the greatest peak on the planet. It is a dormant stratovolcano in Ecuador’s Cordillera Occidental range of the Andes. The mountain has an elevation of 6,000 metres, making it the tallest mountain in Ecuador. The Chimborazo is also a popular mountaineering destination. On this day, people celebrate the farthest point from the centre of the Earth and the spirit of mountaineering.
The background of Chimborazo Day
Chimborazo was once believed to be the tallest mountain in the globe. And, similar to Everest, numerous climbers have attempted to conquer its peak. Even though Chimborazo is no longer the tallest mountain on Earth, the mountain plays a significant role in the geography of the planet. It was one of the two determining factors in determining the actual geometry of the Earth. A Lapland team collaborating with the French Geodesic Mission collected data from this mountain to ascertain that the Earth is an oblate spheroid rather than a sphere.
Mountaineers have attempted to ascend the mountain for decades despite its intimidating height, treacherous slopes, and altitude sickness. Edward Whymper successfully scaled the entire height of Chimborazo in 1880, becoming the first male to do so. In 1802 Alexander von Humboldt scaled the mountain to a height of 19,280 feet.
Chimborazo Day is observed to recognise the significant advances made by humans in geography and cartography. This day also commemorates the mountain that is integral to Ecuador’s identity. Chimborazo Day is also a wonderful time for outdoor enthusiasts to go hiking or mountaineering. On Chimborazo Day, one can also honour the natural beauty and wildlife. This is truly a day filled with festivities!
5 CHIMBORAZO FACTS THAT WILL BLOW YOUR MIND
Contrary to conventional belief, the Chimborazo is not the highest peak in the Andes, ranking only 39th in terms of elevation.
As a result of the mountain’s presence of black ice, climbing the Chimborazo peak necessitates special skills and equipment.
On a clear, sunny day, some claim that the peak of Chimborazo is visible from the coastal city of Guayaquil, which is approximately 145 kilometres distant!
The mountain peak of Chimborazo is completely covered by glaciers, which also serve as a water source for neighbouring populations.
Chimborazo’s average time between eruptions was one thousand years; the last eruption occurred 1,400 years ago.
CHIMBORAZO DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | June 3 | Saturday |
| 2024 | June 3 | Monday |
| 2025 | June 3 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | June 3 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | June 3 | Thursday |
