It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Baltazar Ushca, widely known as “the Last Iceman of Chimborazo”, who departed this world on October 11, 2024, at the age of 72. His death marks the end of a centuries-old tradition that once sustained entire communities and connected humanity with the heartbeat of the natural world.
Baltazar Ushca was not only the last practitioner of the ancient craft of harvesting ice from the glaciers of Mount Chimborazo in Ecuador, but he was also the custodian of an ancestral way of life that spanned generations. From a young age, he learned the intricate and labor-intensive process of cutting blocks of ice from the glacier and transporting them down the mountain on the backs of donkeys. For decades, he carried on the legacy of his forefathers, working tirelessly, often at altitudes over 5,000 meters, under the harshest conditions.
Baltazar became a global symbol of cultural preservation, attracting the attention of international media. He embraced these opportunities and was proudly interviewed by renowned outlets such as the BBC, DW from Germany, and The New York Times. His story and charisma captivated the world, helping raise awareness about the disappearing traditions of the high Andes in the face of climate change and the rapid retreat of glaciers. Through these mediaplatforms, he not only honored his craft but also helped bring tourism to his hometown of Riobamba and to Ecuador, ensuring that the beauty of Chimborazo and its history remained a point of fascination for people from around the globe.
As the world modernized, mechanical refrigeration gradually replaced the need for hand-harvested ice, yet Baltazar remained steadfast in his craft. Long after others abandoned the practice, he continued, driven by a deep sense of duty and tradition. His life became the subject of documentaries, media interviews, and countless photographs, ensuring that his unique way of life would not be forgotten.
Baltazar Ushca is survived by his children and grandchildren, who will remember him not only as a devoted family man but as a cultural icon whose life work will forever be linked to the towering majesty of Chimborazo. May he rest in peace, cradled by the eternal snow of the mountain he loved so dearly.
Jake is originally from Sydney and co-founded Ecuador Eco Adventure with Wlady back in 2006. Together they built one of the country's most prominent climbing and hiking agency that is number one in summit attempts of Chimborazo, Cotopaxi, Antisana, and Cayambe. Ecuador Eco Adventure has since been recommended in National Geographic Adventure, The Rough Guide, and the Lonely Planet.
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