Maipo Volcano

Maipo Volcano

Maipo is an active volcano on the border between Argentina and Chile. It is located 90 kilometers south of Tupungato and about 100 kilometers southeast of Santiago. Its elevation is 5,264 meters.

Although Maipo Volcano rises more than five thousand meters above sea level, it is not among the highest mountain peaks. For example, one of its closest neighbors, the Castillo Volcano, is approximately five and a half thousand meters high. The key to Maipo’s popularity is not its height, but its unique inimitable shape. Unlike its volcanic neighbors, Maipo has an absolutely symmetrical conical volcanic shape. Thanks to this feature, Maipo has earned a place on the list of major natural attractions in Argentina and Chile.

Crater of Diamonds

It is not only Maipo that is interesting and scenic, but also the entire area where it is located. Maipo Volcano is in close proximity to the Magnificent Crater of Diamonds, which got its name because of its resemblance to this gemstone. The Diamond Crater is over half a million years old. Its size – 20 by 15 kilometers and height – about 1900 meters – are also striking. The most beautiful lake Laguna del Diamante is located to the west of Maipo. It was formed in 1826 after the end of another volcanic eruption.

Maipo Canyon

Maipo Canyon deserves special attention. At its bottom runs a river, which can be crossed in one way – on a suspension bridge. Tourists who dare to take this bold step, will be able to enjoy the simply stunning landscape of the Maipo Valley with numerous waterfalls. Maipo Volcano is located in a transitional climate zone between the humid south and dry north. This explains the uneven snow formation at the top of the volcano, which is so surprising to tourists.

Tourists

Touring these places attracts travelers not only with the beauty of mountain scenery and the blue of the water surface of the lakes. It is the transportation that attracts. Contemplate all the beauty has to ride a horse. The excursion route passes along vineyards and craft stores. Friendly locals will offer to taste fresh pastries, various sweets, almonds and honey. City dwellers will find it especially interesting to observe the life of the inhabitants of the mountain villages.

Traveling to the majestic volcano Maipo will give you a lot of pleasant impressions, allow you to breathe in the purest mountain air and get acquainted with the unique flora and fauna of the local highlands.