Pozo de las Ánimas, Natural sinkhole formation in Malargüe Department, Argentina
Pozo de las Ánimas is a doline with two large sinkholes separated by a thin rock wall. The northern crater contains a light blue lake at its bottom, while the southern depression has gentler slopes covered with sparse plants.
The sinkhole formed through natural collapse processes over geological time in this region. Its interior lake was first documented in 1981, when a team measured the water depth and began systematic study of the formation.
Local communities associated this place with a legend involving people who perished in the waters long ago. The name carries this historical memory and remains part of how people in the region speak about and understand the location.
The two craters can be viewed from various vantage points, but safe viewing areas are located on the stable rim edges around the formations. Wear sturdy footwear and avoid areas where the ground becomes unstable or drops off steeply.
The northern lake displays a striking light blue color that stands out from the drier southern area with its thinner plant cover. These differences stem from distinct water and soil conditions created by the two separate formations.
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