El Escondido volcano, Stratovolcano in Caldas Department, Colombia.
El Escondido is a stratovolcano in the Central Cordillera rising to about 3,150 meters, marked by layers of solidified lava and volcanic ash. The mountain sits within a protected natural park and is surrounded by dense forest cover.
The volcano was scientifically documented during geological surveys of Selva de Florencia National Natural Park in 2013. Its internal rock formations reveal evidence of volcanic activity dating back roughly 30,000 years.
The volcanic soil supports coffee cultivation and other crops that sustain local livelihoods across the surrounding hillsides. Communities here have adapted their farming practices to work with the land's natural fertility over many generations.
Access requires a permit from local authorities since the mountain sits within a protected area. Visitors should plan to hike with local guides and bring warm layers, as temperatures drop significantly at this elevation.
The volcanic deposits here differ in composition from neighboring formations, setting them apart from the nearby San Diego volcano. This geological distinction makes the mountain a focus for researchers studying the region's varied volcanic history.
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