Miñiques Volcano, Stratovolcano in Antofagasta Region, Chile

Miñiques is a volcanic complex of four overlapping volcanoes, built from lava domes and stratovolcanoes, in the Antofagasta Region. Its two summits are a lower northern one at 5,790 m and a higher southern one at 5,910 m. Two crater lakes lie at 5,450 m and 5,500 m on the southeastern and western sides of the northern summit.

Stone structures and archaeological sites lie on the summit and flanks of Miñiques. The Inca linked the mountain to the god Tunupa and to lightning, and the church of Socaire is oriented toward it. The volcano formed during two stages in the Pliocene and Plio-Pleistocene.

The church of Socaire is oriented toward Miñiques, and the Inca linked the mountain to the god Tunupa and to lightning. Stone structures and archaeological sites lie on its summit and flanks.

Visitors need proper equipment for high-altitude climbing and time to acclimatize, since oxygen levels drop sharply above 5,900 meters. Good weather conditions and physical fitness are important for a safe experience.

Two crater lakes sit on opposite sides of the volcano at elevations between 5,450 and 5,500 meters, making them rare water bodies at this extreme height. These isolated pools offer a surprising discovery in the otherwise dry highlands.