304 – Expedición Al Gran Crater Corona Del Inca – desde Villa Unión

304 - Expedition to the Great Corona del Inca Crater – from Villa Unión

Cordillera de los Andes – La Rioja

Northern Region - Argentina

The most fascinating adventure at 5.500 meters above sea level in a surreal landscape A unique experience on board 4WD vehicles, where you'll live an unforgettable expedition

A 3-day expedition to one of the most remote and extraordinary places in the Andes. Surrounded by giants such as El Bonete, El Veladero, and Monte Pissis, the immense Corona del Inca Crater lies at 5,500 meters above sea level, enclosing a deep-blue lake fed by permanent glaciers. Bonete and Pissis are among the highest peaks of America (3th and 4th), we will see this spectacular volcanoes from just few kilometers away

GENERAL INFORMATION

The Corona del Inca Crater is one of the most difficult places to access in the region.

It can only be reached between December and early April, as snow blocks the access tracks during the rest of the year.

Departures operate in groups of at least 6 passengers, using a minimum of 2 specially equipped 4WD vehicles prepared for sand, mud, snow, and rocky terrain. Most departures operate with 10 to 16 passengers and 3 or more vehicles for greater safety.

Extreme Weather Conditions

Even in summer, temperatures in the volcano area are very low.

They generally range from -5°C to +8°C, with winds of 30 to 60 km/h that can produce a wind chill of up to -20°C.

Proper layered thermal clothing, gloves, and protection for the head and neck are essential.

Children under 12 are not allowed.
The program is not suitable for older adults in fragile health.
Es importante tener un estado físico saludable y tolerancia a la altura.
People with high or low blood pressure should not take part.
Please consult your doctor before traveling above 4,500 meters above sea level.

Important Note

NATURE IS IN CHARGE

The itinerary may change due to weather conditions, landslides, storms, snow, or flooded rivers. The order of excursions and overnight stays may also vary.

The success of the expedition depends on both the physical condition of participants and weather conditions in the Andes.
Access to the crater is possible only when mountain conditions remain stable.

From April onward, snowfall may block the route until December.

DAY	Day's Detail
1	Villa Unión – Pozuelos – Vinchina / Jagüé. Around midday, depart from Villa Unión via Villa Castelli toward Vinchina. Travel along the dramatic “Dakar Routes,” crossing sandy riverbeds and tilted rock formations in the striking Quebrada de los Pozuelos, then continue toward the small pre-Andean village of Jagüé. Overnight stay and dinner.
2	VINCHINA/JAGÜÉ – LAGUNA BRAVA - CORONA DEL INCA CRATER - JAGÜÉ. Early departure into the high Andes through the colorful Quebrada del Peñón to the lake pass at 4,370 meters above sea level, where Laguna Brava first comes into view, framed by snow-capped volcanoes. Continue north across volcanic ash fields, the Riojan Pumice Stone Field, and lava canyons beneath giants such as El Bonete, El Veladero, and El Reclus. Around midday, begin the final ascent to the rim of the immense Corona del Inca Crater at 5,500 meters above sea level, where a deep-blue lake fed by permanent glaciers lies inside the volcanic basin — one of the most extraordinary landscapes in the Andes. Picnic lunch en route. Return via Laguna Brava and descend to Jagüé for overnight stay and dinner.
3	VINCHINA/JAGÜÉ - LA TROYA - VILLA UNION. Depart from Jagüé and travel through the dramatic Quebrada de la Troya, where millions of years of erosion have sculpted striking geological formations and exposed ancient fossil traces. Visit the Estrellas Diaguitas near Vinchina, then continue back to Villa Unión, arriving around midday. End of services.