Quimsachata, Extinct volcano in Canchis Province, Cusco Region, Peru.
Quimsachata is an extinct volcano in the Andes at about 3,920 meters elevation, formed by a scoria cone and extensive lava fields. The volcanic structure sits within Canchis Province in Cusco Region and remains a prominent feature of the local landscape.
The volcano formed through two separate eruptive phases in its past. The first phase occurred roughly 11,500 years ago and created the scoria cone, while a later eruption produced extensive lava flows.
The volcanic landscape shapes farming in nearby communities, where locals grow crops that benefit from the nutrient-rich soil created by past eruptions. This fertile ground remains an important resource for the people living here.
The high altitude requires acclimatization and proper preparation, especially for visitors coming from lower elevations. Weather changes and thinner air mean exploring at a slower pace helps you enjoy the landscape comfortably.
The volcanic group includes varied geological structures ranging from mineral-rich rock formations to a separate dome structure with thick lava deposits. This geological diversity makes the site worth exploring for anyone interested in how the Andes landscape developed.
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