Volcán Bárcena, Active cinder cone volcano on San Benedicto Island, Mexico.
Volcán Bárcena is a cinder cone that forms the southern end of San Benedicto Island in the Revillagigedo Islands, about 350 kilometers off Baja California. Its base measures 700 meters across, and the cone rises to 330 meters. Two small lava domes sit in the crater, and a lava delta extends along the southeast coast.
The volcano originated from an eruption sequence that began in August 1952 and continued over several months. These volcanic events permanently altered the island's shape through deposits of ash and flowing rock.
The waters surrounding San Benedicto Island attract marine researchers and divers who study the diverse underwater ecosystems near the volcanic formation.
Reaching the volcano requires boat travel from mainland Mexico, with Cabo San Lucas serving as the main departure point for organized expeditions. The remote location means visits are only possible as part of guided tours.
The volcano is one of the youngest natural landmasses on Earth, literally born during the twentieth century. This extremely recent geological formation makes it a rare example of active volcanic creation captured in historical time.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 92,744 contributors worldwide.