Caldera del Atuel, Volcanic caldera in Mendoza Province, Argentina.
Caldera del Atuel is a large volcanic crater in Mendoza Province spanning about 30 kilometers wide and 45 kilometers long. The landscape features numerous basaltic cones and lava flows that are especially visible in the eastern section.
This caldera formed millions of years ago through intense volcanic activity and a massive collapse that shaped the current geological structure. Seismic events in the region have continued to influence this formation over time.
Indigenous Huarpe groups lived near this caldera and farmed the mineral-rich volcanic soil for generations. You can still sense their connection to the land as you walk through the area.
The site is accessible via Provincial Route 173, with the best visiting conditions during the dry season from October through April. Plan your trip during these months for better road conditions and clearer skies.
Scientists detected surface changes in the caldera following the 2010 earthquake, indicating this ancient volcano remains geologically active. These shifts show how the landscape continues to transform even today.
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