El Elegante Crater, Volcanic crater in Sonora, Mexico.
El Elegante crater extends 1400 meters in width and descends 140 meters into the earth, displaying layered rock formations along its circular rim.
The crater formed approximately 32,000 years ago when underground water met rising magma, resulting in an explosive eruption that scattered materials across 30 kilometers.
This geological formation stands within El Pinacate y Gran Desierto de Altar Biosphere Reserve, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2012.
Visitors need to prepare for desert conditions when exploring the crater, bringing sufficient water, sun protection, and navigation tools for the remote location.
NASA selected this location for Apollo mission testing due to its geological similarities with lunar surfaces and extreme environmental conditions.
Location: Sonora
GPS coordinates: 31.84670,-113.39128
Latest update: March 6, 2025 21:31
El Pinacate y Gran Desierto de Altar Biosphere Reserve
52.5 km
Sonoran Desert National Monument
142.8 km
Painted Rock Petroglyph Site
134.9 km
Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge
43.2 km
Desert Sun Stadium
148.3 km
Upper Gulf of California and Colorado River Delta biosphere reserve
109.6 km
McPhaul Suspension Bridge
140.4 km
Yuma Project
151 km
Ventana Cave
122.7 km
Cabeza Prieta Wilderness
47 km
Isanaklesh Peaks
140.9 km
Bates Well Ranch
54.9 km
Ajo Peak
71.1 km
Gatlin Site
142.5 km
Dos Lomitas Ranch
61.6 km
Muggins Mountain Wilderness
128.6 km
St. Paul's Episcopal Church
150.8 km
United States Post Office–Yuma Main
151 km
Gachado Well and Line Camp
57.3 km
Frank Ewing House
150.8 km
Balsz House
151.1 km
Ruth Ewing House
150.8 km
Westwind Golf Course
136.2 km
Aquariam Mar De Cortez
62.3 km
Gila Bend Visitor Center and Museum
137.2 km
Stout's Hotel
138 km
Kris Eggle Visitor Center
57.1 km
Rocky Point
134 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes