The longest and highest mountains on earth. The longest mountains in the world. The Ural Mountains are the largest mountain range in Russia

In fact, we will not be talking about one mountain at all, but about an entire mountain system called the Andes (Andean Cordillera). The length of this system is as much as 9000 km, width - 750 km, and height at the highest point - 6962 m. It is located in South America, penetrating almost the entire continent from north to west through seven states.

According to the data obtained by scientists, the formation of the Andes dates back to the Jurassic period, which began approximately 200 million years ago. Moreover we're talking about exclusively about the beginning of formation, since many troughs, massifs, etc. were formed much later. Moreover, the process of mountain building in the Andes is still ongoing.

The mountain system is rich in non-ferrous metals such as lead, molybdenum, vanadium, tungsten, etc. In the region of Chile are large deposits copper, gas and oil are hidden in troughs near Argentina and Venezuela, and Bolivia is rich in iron.

Since the Andes stretch over almost the entire continent, both soil and plant covers are extremely diverse. So, here you can find plants such as palm trees, ficus, bananas, evergreen shrubs, cacti, lichens, etc. In short, we are talking about almost any plant that grows in South America.

As for the animal world, there are about 600 species of mammals in the mountain system, just over 1,500 species of birds, 400 fish and almost a thousand species of amphibians, which is an incredibly large number (in our country, for example, there are only 28 species of amphibians). Some of the birds and animals are on the verge of extinction, including due to poaching, some are already extinct. However, there is another problem - air pollution. But more on that below.

Undoubtedly, mountain system has a whole range environmental problems. So, since agriculture is well developed near the passing Andes, various chemicals are constantly entering the soil, and desertification occurs somewhere due to overgrazing. Fortunately, such situations occur infrequently. Environment is also polluted due to various factories located in close proximity to the Andes. Another important issue is that there is a cutting down of wet tropical forests for planting rubber and coffee trees in the vacated areas, which support the economies of states.

By the way, oh agriculture. The cultivation of coffee, barley, bananas and potatoes is most developed here. On high altitudes They grow corn, wheat and quinoa (an annual grain crop consumed by the local Indian community); cocoa, sugar cane, and tropical fruits grow well on the moist slopes. Plants brought from European countries, including some citrus fruits, olives and grapes.

Livestock farming is well developed, but its main direction is sheep breeding. Indians breed llamas. Fishing is poorly developed.

    The title of the longest mountains was earned by mountains called ANDES(America). These mountains extend as far as 9,000 kilometers. This extent of this mountain system also affects its characteristics in each of its parts, and there are three of them: the northern part, the central and the southern - the Andes have their own natural features(climate, vegetation, animal world). And thanks to their unprecedented length, the mountains cover the territories of seven countries. These are Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina - all countries located in South America.

    I suggest you appreciate the beauty of these mountains in the photo below (it’s not enough to read about them, it’s good to see them):

    The longest mountains in the world, which are located on the territory of seven countries South America Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina are mountains Andes(their length is 9000 km).

    Due to climatic differences and high altitudes, these mountains have a very diverse soil cover (cocoa tree and Antarctic beech grow here) and fauna (you can see a monkey and a Chilean deer).

    If we talk about the longest mountains on land, then these are truly the Andes. But if you are responsible for the whole world, then the longest mountains on Earth are the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Its length is more than 18 thousand kilometers. Even if we divide it into the Southern and Northern parts, the length of the Southern part - 10.5 thousand kilometers - will exceed the length of the Andes.

    If we are talking about length, then it is worth answering that greatest length has such a mountain system as the Andes. The length of these mountains is approximately nine thousand kilometers, which is very impressive. But as for the width, the average size is 750 kilometers.

    I remember from geography lessons that the longest mountains in the world are the Andes. They stretch for 9000 km. Originate from Caribbean Sea and stretch to Tierra del Fuego. Moreover, these mountains are also a watershed. After all, this is where the Amazon River originates.

    Perhaps, indeed, the longest mountains in the world are the Andes. Mesmerizingly beautiful mountain landscapes that you can’t tear yourself away from. The long mountain is about 9 thousand km, they stretch through 7 countries of South America.

  • The longest mountains in the world

    The longest mountains in the world are the mountain system Andes. The Andes are located in South America. The length of this mountain system is 9 thousand kilometers, and the width is about 750 kilometers. The Andes stretch across almost the entire continent. Their formation began about 200 million years ago, and the process of mountain building continues to this day.

  • Without a doubt, the Andes can and should be called the longest mountains in the world. This Mountain chain penetrates the territories of seven countries of the South American continent, has a length of approximately 9000 kilometers. The Andes are new mountains, despite the fact that they completed their formation several million years ago.

    The longest mountains in the world are, of course, the Andes, which are located in America. Their total length is more than nine thousand kilometers, the width of which reaches more than five thousand kilometers.

    The very duration of this rocky area seems to hold together seven different states, these are:

    Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Peru, Chile, Argentina and Bolivia are all in South America.

    In the category of Longest Mountains in the World, the only winner of this title is the American Andes Mountains. Their length, neither more nor less, is more than nine thousand kilometers. In some places these mountains reach more than 5,000 kilometers in width.

    Such a length of mountainous terrain covered and united the territories of several countries; the mountain slopes have their own climate and their own nature. The beauty, of course, is indescribable and the rich wildlife make these mountains the property of all mankind.

    Of course, you can talk about it for a long time, but it’s better to see (albeit not live) everything for yourself. More detailed information can be read.

Majestic mountain ranges, these natural masterpieces will always attract a huge number of travelers. Mountain climbing can be identified as a separate area of ​​tourism, which many people enjoy. Mountain ranges attract not only with their beauty, but also with their height and inaccessibility. However, there is also such a parameter as the length of mountain ranges. Everyone knows that the most high mountain Everest is in the world, but not all travelers know what the longest mountains on Earth are. Perhaps it doesn't matter of great importance for a tourist who decides to climb any peak. And for some, the length of the mountain ranges will be decisive when choosing a travel destination. Visiting a country through which the longest mountains in the world pass can be a source of special pride.

Top 5 longest mountains on Earth

  1. The Andes are the longest mountain range in the world.
  2. The Rockies are the main mountains of the American continent.
  3. The Great Dividing Range is the main decoration of Australia.
  4. Transantarctic - cold mountains of Antarctica.
  5. The Ural Mountains are the longest mountains in Russia.

The Andes are the longest mountain system in the world

The Andes are located in South America. This longest mountain range in the world stretches along the entire western coast of the mainland. The length from north to south is 9000 kilometers. Another name for the mountains is the Andean Cordillera. It's gigantic nature education. The largest width of the ridges reaches 750 km ( central District Andes). The mountains are very high, the average height is 4000 meters. Here is the highest mountain in the world located outside of Asia. This is Aconcagua (6961 meters). In the gorges of the Andes there are the mouths of the largest rivers on Earth, such as:

  • Amazon;
  • Orinoco;
  • Paraguay;
  • Parana.

Another remarkable feature of the Andean Cordillera is that it is a watershed between two oceans: the Pacific and the Atlantic. They protect the lands lying near the mountain range from the influence of ocean winds. The Andean ridge is so long that it is located just 5 climatic zones, equatorial to temperate. It passes through the territory of 7 countries: Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, Argentina. The longest mountain system on Earth is also the largest of all, having a folded structure. The Andes formed in Jurassic period on ancient tectonic plates. The belt is characterized by mobility and tectonic activity. The South American plate is creeping over the Antarctic and Nazca plates, which requires the creation of new mountain slopes. These include a large number of volcanoes, so earthquakes are common in these regions. In the Andes there are many deposits of copper and iron, as well as oil, gas, and precious metals.

The climate of the Andes is very diverse. The northern region of the world's longest mountain range belongs to subequatorial belt(Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador). Wet seasons alternate with dry ones, and there is a lot of rainfall. The climate of the central part of the mountain system is characterized by cooler air. There are deserts and mountain plateaus here. Lake Titicaca, which has the largest reserve of fresh water on the continent. Chile and Argentina lie in the southern part of the Andean Cordillera, in the subtropical zone. It's more humid and warm climate, the amount of precipitation increases greatly as you move south. In the Tierra del Fuego archipelago it rains most of the year and the air temperature is low. The flora and fauna of the longest mountain system on Earth is extremely rich and diverse. In connection with the development of industry, problems such as air, coastal waters, and soil pollution have arisen. Deforestation is also a serious threat to the environment. valuable species trees. Many species of animals and plants are disappearing.

The Rocky Mountains are the second longest in the world

The Rocky Mountains represent main part Cordillera is a mountain system located in North America. They stretch along the western coast of the continent, covering Canada and the USA. Their length is 4,830 km. This is a large natural divide between Pacific Ocean and the Atlantic, as well as the Andes. They are among the highest - the size from the foot to the top of the highest Mount Elbert is 4,401 meters. The system consists of southern and northern parts, differing in mountain formation. The northern ones are granite mountains up to 4000 meters high. Southern Mountains consist of sandstone, sedimentary rocks, and shales. The Rocky Mountains are rich in oil, gas, and precious metals. They are seismically active and there are earthquakes here. On this land there are geysers and hot springs.


The Rocky Mountains were originally inhabited by Indians. They hunted on these lands, fishing, gathering. From the beginning of the 16th century, Europeans began to supplant them. When gold reserves were discovered in the mountains, people from all over Europe poured here. The mining industry began to develop. The region was populated by people, and a developed infrastructure appeared. The US government is committed to preserving unique nature Rocky Mountains. Many have been created national parks and nature reserves. Currently, tourism is well developed here. Particularly popular are such activities as mountaineering, skiing, and snowboarding. There are many areas for hunting and fishing.

A mountain attraction is Lower Yellowstone Falls. This is the longest waterfall in the ridge, its height is 94 meters. Located on the mountain slopes coniferous forests, in the foothills - deciduous and mixed. The valleys are dominated by steppes and semi-deserts. Yellowstone is located on this land national park. This is the first park of this type in the world, created in 1872. This is a world-famous site that attracts many tourists. It is located on the territory of three American states. There are many geysers, thermal springs, lakes, rivers, waterfalls. The park has a very picturesque landscape. Canyons and caves look great against the backdrop of slopes overgrown with dense forests. There are also such famous parks as:

  • Yoho;
  • Rocky Mountain;
  • Jasper;
  • Waterton Lakes.

The Great Dividing Range is the most beautiful on Earth

The Great Dividing Range is located on the Australian continent. English name- Great Dividing Range. Its length is almost 2 times less than the Andean Cordillera. The Great Dividing Range is about 4,000 kilometers long. It is the third longest mountain system on Earth. Mountains consist of volcanic, igneous, sedimentary rocks, and minerals. There are large oil, gas, coal and mineral deposits here. Copper, gold are mined here, iron ore.


Bolshoi Mountains Watershed Ridge less high than the Andes. The highest point is Kosciuszko. This mountain is located in the south of New South Wales. Its length from the foot to the top is 2,228 meters. This is the highest peak in Australia. It is part of the Australian Alps system. In the west of the range the mountains are gentle, turning into hilly terrain. In the east of the range, the mountains are very steep, indented by gorges, with many peaks highlighting them. The width of the ridge reaches 650 km. The Blue Mountains are considered the most beautiful. The eucalyptus trees growing on them emit specific vapors that rise above the mountains. From a distance, they seem to be shrouded in a blue haze, which is why they got their romantic name. Originate in the mountains deep rivers Australia, providing the population clean water(Darling and Murray). Murray is the most long river continent, the length of which is 2,508 km. The Darling is its tributary and is the largest after the Murray. The nature of the Great Dividing Range is very beautiful. Eucalyptus forests, many evergreens and deciduous plants grow on these lands. The Blue Mountains are part of Australia's protected area, which includes several national parks.

The Transantarctic Mountains are the coldest in the world

The Transantarctic Mountains lie in the coldest part of the world - Antarctica. They run down the middle of the continent and divide the west and east in half. They consist of several mountain ranges. The length of the Transantarctic Ridge is 3,500 km. These are the fourth longest mountains in the world. To the west of them is the Ross Sea with the glacier of the same name, the West Antarctic Ice Sheet.


The Transantarctic Mountains were discovered by James Ross during a scientific expedition (1841). These are the oldest mountains in Antarctica and are of volcanic origin. They mainly consist of igneous rocks and minerals. Water from the melting glaciers of the East Antarctic Shield flows through the Transantarctic Chain and forms new glaciers. They form rapids that divide the ridge into several mountain systems. Despite the fact that the Transantarctic Mountains are located on a snow-covered continent, there are quite large areas free of snow and ice. This is the McMurdo Dry Valleys. This territory is a snowless area located on Victoria Land.

The Ural Mountains are the largest mountain range in Russia

Ural Mountains are located on the border of the East European and West Siberian plains. Their length is approximately 2000 km. Their basis is a folded belt that finally formed in the Jurassic period. More ancient deposits are formed by sand, limestone, and dolomite. The mountain range is located near the Deep Ural Fault. Seismic activity here is low, so earthquakes do not occur in this region. Geographically, the Ural Mountains are divided into 5 regions. This is the South, Middle, Northern region, as well as the Subpolar and Polar Mountains. The mountains are small in height; they lag quite far behind the American Cordilleras. The highest mountain in the Urals is Narodnaya. Its height is 1895 meters. Next come Yamantau (1640 meters), Manaraga (1662 meters). There are many beautiful lakes in the region in the mountains and foothills. The most famous of them: Uvildy, Turgoyak, Tavatuy.


The Ural Mountains are rich in minerals. Copper, jasper, and many types of precious minerals are found in their depths. Gems are mined here - stones that have an unusual and very beautiful appearance. They are used to make souvenirs, decorations, and decorative items. The most popular gems mined in the Ural Mountains: aquamarine, rhodonite, malachite, emerald. This area is also a deposit of bauxite - aluminum ore, potassium salts. There are many deposits here coal. It is mined in the Pechora and Kizelovsky basins. There are oil and gas fields.

Copper Mountains. This is the name of the longest mountains in the world in the Inca language. These are the Andean Cordillera or simply the Andes.

The length of this mountain range is incomparable to any other on the planet. The Andes stretch for a record 9 thousand kilometers. They begin at the Caribbean Sea and reach Tierra del Fuego.

The highest peak of the Andean cordillera is Mount Aconcagau. It rises exactly 6962 meters. By the way, there are places where the Andes are 500 kilometers wide, but the maximum width of the mountain system is 750 kilometers. This value was recorded in the Central Andes, in the Andean Highlands.

However, most of the Andean cordillera is occupied by a plateau called Puna. It has a very high snow line. It reaches 6500 meters, but average height The mountains are about 4000 meters.

As experts say, the Andes are relatively young mountains. Here the process of mountain building was completed several million years ago. The origin of fossils began in the Precambrian and Paleozoic periods. Then areas of land began to appear in place of the vast ocean. For a long time The area where today's Andes are located was either land or sea.

The mountain range finished forming by uplifting rocks, as a result of which huge folds of stone extended to an impressive height. By the way, this process continues today. Sometimes there are earthquakes and volcanic eruptions in the Andes.

The longest mountains in the world are also the largest interoceanic divide. Originates in the Andean Cordillera famous river The Amazon, as well as its tributaries. In addition, influxes of other largest rivers countries of South America - Parana, Orinoco and Paraguay. The mountains for the mainland serve as a climatic barrier, in other words, the Andes isolate the land from the west from any influence Atlantic Ocean, on the other hand, from the east, protect from the Pacific Ocean.

It is not surprising, given the extent of the mountains, that the Andes are located in six climatic zones. Subtropical temperate, equatorial, southern tropical, northern and southern subequatorial. On the western slopes, in contrast to the southern ones, up to ten thousand millimeters of precipitation falls per year. Therefore, the landscape in different parts radically different.

Based on their topography, the longest mountains in the world are divided into three regions. These are the southern, northern and central Andes. The Northern Andes include the Ecuadorian Andes, the Caribbean Andes and the Northwestern Andes. The main Cordilleras are divided by the depressions of the Cauca and Magdalena rivers. And there are many volcanoes here. For example, Huila rose to 5750 meters, Ruiz to 5400 meters, and the current Kumbal rises to 4890 meters.

The longest mountains in the world are the Andes (Very beautiful)

The Ecuadorian Andes have hit a volcanic target with the world's tallest volcanoes. Just look at Chimborazo alone, with a height of 6267 meters. The no less giant Cotopaxi breathes in his back - its height is 5896 meters. The chain crosses seven South American countries at once. These are Ecuador, Bolivia, Colombia, Venezuela, Chile, Peru, Argentina. AND highest point The Ecuadorian Andes is Mount Huascaran, 6769 meters high.

And as for Southern Andes, then they are divided into Patagonian and Chilean-Argentinean. In this part, the highest peaks are Tupungato with a height of 6800 meters and Medcedario with a height of 6770 meters. The snow line in this part reaches 6 thousand meters.

Varied and beautiful

The Andes are unique natural place. The longest mountains on the planet are extremely picturesque. And each country that the mountain system crosses has its own zest. For example, in the Andes of Venezuela, deciduous forests and shrubs grow on red soils. The lower parts of the slopes from the Central to the Northwestern Andes cover humid tropical and equatorial forests. There are ficus trees, bananas, palm trees, cocoa trees, bamboos, and vines. However, there are also numerous moss swamps and lifeless rocky spaces. Well, everything above 4500 meters is already eternal ice and snow. By the way, the Andes are the birthplace of coca, cinchona, tobacco, tomatoes and potatoes.

The fauna of the Andes is no less interesting. Here you can find alpacas, llamas, prehensile-tailed monkeys, as well as pudu deer, gaemal, relict spectacled bears, vicunas, sloths, blue foxes, chinchillas, hummingbirds. In a word, those whom Russian residents can only meet in zoos.

The peculiarity of the Andes is great species diversity amphibians - there are more than 900 species. There are about 600 species of mammals and almost 2 thousand species of birds in the mountains. Almost 400 species of freshwater fish are found in local rivers.

Tourist delicacy

The Andes, except in difficult and remote areas, are not at all untouched nature reserve nature. Literally every piece of land here is cultivated local residents. But still, for most tourists, the road to the Andes means the same thing as “escape” from modernity. The local way of life, which has been preserved for centuries, helps to go back in time.


Travelers will immediately notice the patchwork of crops that cover the mountain slopes. And its color changes from dark green to golden. Tourists are invited to follow ancient Indian trails, where sometimes, however, they will have to stop to let a herd of goats, sheep or guanacos pass. And no matter how many times you visit the Andes, the first or the hundredth, nature will never leave you indifferent.

Meetings with local residents will be unforgettable. You can talk to them both in their language and with gestures. However, some mountain inhabitants are not very willing to engage in dialogue. If you come across a contact resident, it would be a good idea to look at his lifestyle. The huts here are made of untreated bricks, people sometimes live without electricity, and draw water from a nearby stream.

Well, hiking in the mountains is not quite like mountaineering. These are most likely walks along steep paths. But they must also be performed only by those who are well prepared and absolutely healthy people with special equipment.
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