Incapillo

Incapillo is a volcanic caldera in La Rioja Province that forms a large basin set high in the Andes Mountains. The depression contains a lake and altered rock formations that show signs of volcanic and thermal activity.

This caldera formed during a major volcanic eruption in ancient times, leaving behind a massive deposit of explosive material across the landscape. The creation of the depression demonstrates the powerful forces at work in this mountain region.

Scientists from multiple countries study the caldera's geological formations to understand volcanic processes in the Andean Central Volcanic Zone.

Reaching this location requires specialized mountaineering equipment and good physical condition due to the extreme altitude. Visitors should prepare for remote conditions and be ready for thin air at such heights.

Within the caldera sits a high-altitude lake positioned next to an altered lava dome. This arrangement suggests that heat may still be active beneath the surface today.