Ambato, Ecuador
Ambato lies in the main valley of the Central Cordillera, the highest of the Andean mountain ranges. The city itself is carved into the side of Cerro Casigana, the mountain that dominates the north end of the city. From Ambato, it is possible to see many snow-capped volcanoes including Cotopaxi, Tungurahua, Carihuairazo, and the largest mountain in Ecuador, Chimborazo. Tungurahua lies about 40 kilometers to the southeast. The threat of eruption from the volcano is constant. On May 16, 2006, Tungurahua erupted, covering the city with a thick layer of ash.
Pintag, Ecuador
Pintag is 9284 feet above sea level. The closest airport is the Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito. The town is located is near the Antisana volcano in Pichincha. Some of the residents farm and raise livestock, and horse riding is a popular local sport.