El Laco, Volcanic summit in Antofagasta Region, Chile.
El Laco is a volcanic summit in the Antofagasta Region that reaches 5472 meters and features seven stratovolcanoes surrounding a central caldera. The peak sits within the Central Volcanic Zone of northern Chile at high altitude where the landscape is stark and barren.
The mountain formation dates to the Pliocene era when volcanic activity deposited iron-rich materials across the landscape. These magnetite deposits were first documented in 1958 and later became subjects of scientific study.
Scientists and geologists from multiple countries conduct research at El Laco to study its magnetite deposits and mineral formations.
Reaching this location requires specialized high-altitude vehicles and proper mountain gear since the site sits above 4300 meters (14100 feet). Visitors need solid acclimatization and should come prepared for thin air, cold temperatures, and remote terrain.
The mountain contains seven massive magnetite bodies mixed with andesitic lava flows, forming one of the largest iron oxide deposits in Chile. This unusual composition makes it visibly different from other volcanoes in the region and draws scientific interest from researchers worldwide.
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