Dolomieu Crater

Dolomieu Crater is a volcanic opening with a diameter of about three kilometers, with steep walls descending several hundred meters at the center. The crater rim offers wide views across the surrounding volcanic landscape and the traces of earlier eruptions.

The crater was named after French geologist Pierre-Marie-Alexis Dolomieu, who contributed to geological science in the 18th century. A major eruption in 2002 significantly altered the crater's internal structure and created a new appearance.

The crater draws researchers from around the world who study volcanic processes and share their findings here. This international research activity has made the site an important center for understanding how volcanoes work.

Access is on foot via a walking trail that should be started early in the morning to explore the site in good daylight. Sturdy shoes and water supplies are important, as the paths cross black lava fields and the ground becomes very hot in the sun.

The crater walls display distinct layers of solidified lava flows that stand out through different colorations. This geological layering tells the story of hundreds of years of repeated volcanic activity at this location.