Cerro Toco, Stratovolcano in Antofagasta Region, Chile
Cerro Toco is a stratovolcano in the Antofagasta Region that rises to about 5,600 meters with steep slopes made of volcanic rock and loose scree. The bare landscape shows clear volcanic origins with dark stone and mineral-rich soil visible from base to summit.
The volcano formed as part of the Purico Complex, a geological structure containing several stratovolcanoes and lava dome formations in this region. This volcanic group shaped the landscape over geological ages.
Scientists conduct astronomical research at the Chajnantor Scientific Reserve on Cerro Toco's western slope, utilizing the Atacama Cosmology Telescope for space observations.
The hike to the summit is short but challenging because thin air at this altitude causes fatigue quickly. Bring plenty of water and allow extra time for slow walking to adjust to the high elevation.
From the summit on clear days, the Licancabur and Juriques volcanoes and several lakes beyond the Bolivian border are visible. This panorama shows how close different countries are in the high Andes region.
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