Cerro Cariquima, Stratovolcano in Tarapacá Region, Chile.

Volcán Cariquima is a stratovolcano in the Andes reaching about 5,365 meters high, with a distinctive cone on its northeastern side. The structure displays typical volcanic features with steep slopes and weathered rock formations throughout.

The volcano formed approximately 4.6 million years ago, and its northeastern cone shows signs of activity within the last 2,000 years. This range demonstrates an ancient volcano that remained active in more recent geological time.

Aymara legend calls the mountain Mama Huanapa, a beautiful woman for whom the nearby snow-capped peaks Sillajuay, Isluga and Sajama fight. The volcano is a sacred mountain of its territory and holds a mountain sanctuary. It rises south of the villages of Cariquima and Ancuaque, in the altiplano of Tarapacá Region.

The sources record no marked trail or climbing route on Cariquima, so the ascent should not be assumed. The summit stands at about 5,365 m in the altiplano of Tarapacá, south of the villages of Cariquima and Ancuaque, and access is over open high ground. Acclimatise before gaining altitude.

The Aymara name Mama Huanapa casts Cariquima as a woman facing the snow peaks of Sillajuay, Isluga and Sajama, said to fight over her love. The mountain is also held sacred, with a sanctuary on its slopes.