Likankabur volcano

On the border between Chile and Bolivia, 40 km from San Pedro de Akatama is the Licancabur volcano. Its height is 5916 m, and the name can be literally translated as “people’s hill”. This is due to mysterious and mystical events many thousands of years ago, when the Inca tribes settled at the foot and on top of the volcano.

Once this place was chosen for religious ceremonies, and sacrifices were made in the crater of the then active volcano. It is possible that human beings too. The last eruption destroyed cities and ruins of some Inca buildings can still be seen on top. Several ancient Atokamians were found here in perfect condition.

Now in the crater on top is one of the largest alpine lakes. It is always hidden under the ice as the temperature does not fall below -30 degrees.

Today, there are several hiking trails to the top of the volcano. The path is not the easiest and takes about two days, but the open view of the desert, lagoons and lakes is worth the effort.