Andes is the longest mountain range in the world stretching the entire length of South American continent and home to Cerro Aconcagua, highest mountain in Argentina and South America. Being tallest in South America makes it one of the seven summits (highest point on each of the seven continents). It also includes Mt. Ojos del Salado and Monte Pissis which are the highest volcanoes in the world also the second and third tallest mountains in the range.
Here are some fun facts about these mountains;
- Mount Chimborazo’s peak in Ecuadorian Andes is the furthest point on Earth from Earth’s center since it’s closer to the equator even though it’s the 39th highest peak in the entire range.
- Given how large the range is, it hosts many unique features on the planet, like Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia, which covers over 10,000 square kilometers (3,861 square miles) and is the largest salt flat in the world
- World’s highest navigable lake Lake Titicaca, shared by Bolivia and Peru in nestled in these mountains.
- Rivers flowing from Andes including Amazon are source of water for millions of people.
- Low precipitation caused by Andes and Chilean Coast range created Atacama Desert, the driest nonpolar desert in the world.
This range is also home to many volcanoes including Cotopaxi in Ecuador and Villarrica in Chile which are popular hikes as well. Torres Del Paine and Mt. Fitz Roy, famous park and mountains in Southern Patagonia as well as Machu Picchu, ancient site of Incas are all nestled in these mountains.
Range details
Location on Map:
Countries: Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina
Length: 8,900 km (5,530 mi)
Area: 3,366,984 km2 (1,300,000 sq mi)
Compare key features with other mountain ranges here.
Elevation
The highest point is Cerro Aconcagua at 6,961 m (22,837 ft). Below chart displays the relative elevation of Andes compared to Himalayas, Alps and Rockies.
One can visualize elevation differences with other ranges with this tool.
Highest peaks in Andes
| Name | Elevation m (ft) | Prominence m (ft) | Country |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aconcagua | 6,961 (22,837) | 6,961 (22,837) | Argentina |
| Ojos del Salado | 6,893 (22,614) | 3,688 (12,100) | Argentina & Chile |
| Monte Pissis | 6,792 (22,283) | 2,145 (7,037) | Argentina |
Cities
Cusco, Peru: Known for its Inca heritage, it’s a starting point for exploring the Andes and Machu Picchu.
Mendoza, Argentina: Famous for its wine region, it’s also a gateway to the Andes for outdoor activities.
Quito, Ecuador: Nestled in the Andes, it offers a mix of colonial history and stunning mountain views.
La Paz, Bolivia: The world’s highest capital city, surrounded by the Andes, provides a unique cultural experience.
Medellin, Colombia: Surrounded by the Andes, the city has a pleasant climate and vibrant culture.